Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Surveyor in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$103,790 median (43% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 103,790, Surveyors in California earn 43% above the national median of $72,740. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$103,790Hourly estimate
$49.9043% above national median
Difference: +$31,050
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Surveyor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 103,790 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 93,260 |
| #3 | Washington | 88,340 |
| #4 | Oregon | 87,730 |
| #5 | South Dakota | 86,260 |
Nearby States Comparison
Surveyor licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists
2535 Capital Oaks Drive, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95833-2944
Phone: 916993635
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in California?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in California is 103,790. Salaries range from $57,330 (10th percentile) to $158,720 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in California compare to the national average?
Surveyors in California earn 43% above the national median of $72,740, with a state median of 103,790.
How many Surveyors work in California?
California employs approximately 3,750 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Surveyors in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. Review agency details at https://www.bpelsg.ca.gov/.