how to become a surveyor in florida

3 min read 24-01-2025

Meta Description: Aspiring to become a surveyor in Florida? This comprehensive guide outlines the educational requirements, licensing process, exam details, and continuing education needed to launch your surveying career in the Sunshine State. Learn about the different types of surveying licenses and how to navigate the application process successfully.

Understanding Florida Surveying Licenses

Florida offers several surveying licenses, catering to different levels of experience and expertise. Knowing which one you're aiming for is the first step. The main categories include:

Professional Surveyor and Mapper (PSM): This is the highest level of licensure. PSMs can perform all types of surveying work.
Surveyor Intern (SI): This is an entry-level license, requiring you to work under the supervision of a PSM. It allows you to gain practical experience and prepare for the PSM exam.

Educational Requirements for Florida Surveyors

Before even thinking about the licensing exam, you need the right education. Florida's requirements are stringent:

ABET-Accredited Degree: You'll need a four-year degree from an ABET-accredited college or university in surveying, engineering, or a closely related field. This accreditation is crucial; make sure your program meets the standards. Many universities offer programs in Geomatics, which is often a good fit.
Relevant Coursework: Your degree program should include specific coursework covering surveying principles and practices. Contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for a precise list of required courses.

The Florida Surveyor Licensing Exam Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The path to licensure involves several key steps:

1. Meeting the Educational Requirements:

As mentioned above, this involves completing an ABET-accredited degree program with the necessary coursework. Carefully review the DBPR's requirements to ensure compliance.

2. Applying for Surveyor Intern (SI) Licensure:

Once you've completed your education, you'll apply for SI licensure through the DBPR. This application involves providing transcripts, references, and other supporting documents. Be thorough and accurate in your application to avoid delays.

3. Gaining Practical Experience:

As an SI, you'll need to accumulate a minimum number of hours of supervised experience under a licensed PSM. The exact number of hours required might vary, so confirm this directly with the DBPR. This practical experience is crucial for applying the theoretical knowledge gained during your studies.

4. Passing the Fundamentals of Surveying and Principles and Practice of Surveying Exams:

After accumulating sufficient experience, you'll need to pass two exams:

Fundamentals of Surveying: This exam covers basic surveying principles and techniques.
Principles and Practice of Surveying: This is a more advanced exam, focusing on practical applications and professional standards.

These exams are administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Preparation is key; utilize study materials and practice exams to increase your chances of success.

5. Applying for Professional Surveyor and Mapper (PSM) Licensure:

Finally, with your exams passed and required experience fulfilled, you can apply for your PSM license. This application, like the SI application, requires careful attention to detail and the submission of all necessary documents.

Continuing Education for Florida Surveyors

Licensure isn't a one-time event. Florida requires ongoing continuing education to maintain your license. The DBPR outlines the specific requirements for continuing education credits, ensuring that surveyors remain current with industry best practices and technological advancements.

Finding a Mentor or Networking

Networking is important in the surveying field. Connect with professionals through local surveying organizations or industry events. A mentor can guide you through the process, offer advice, and provide valuable insights.

Key Resources and Links

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): The primary source for all information concerning surveying licensure in Florida. Their website is your go-to resource for rules, applications, and updates.
National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES): The organization responsible for administering the surveying licensing exams.

Becoming a surveyor in Florida requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By following these steps and utilizing the resources provided, you can successfully navigate the licensing process and embark on a rewarding career in this vital profession. Remember to always check the DBPR website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.