Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Surveyor in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$76,720 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 76,720, Surveyors in Iowa earn 5% above the national median of $72,740. Iowa ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$76,720Hourly estimate
$36.885% above national median
Difference: +$3,980
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#22 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 region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $76,720 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $46,610 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $76,790 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $77,540 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $59,500 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $66,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $86,260 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in Iowa?
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 exams are required for Surveyors in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Surveyors.
What education do you need to become a Surveyor in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Surveyor licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in Iowa is 76,720. Salaries range from $62,980 (10th percentile) to $104,740 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Surveyors in Iowa earn 5% above the national median of $72,740, with a state median of 76,720.
How many Surveyors work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 450 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Surveyors in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.