Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Surveyor in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$67,870 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 67,870, Surveyors in North Carolina earn 7% below the national median of $72,740. North Carolina ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$67,870Hourly estimate
$32.637% below national median
Difference: -$4,870
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#31 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $67,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $73,380 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $74,690 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $60,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $62,160 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors
4601 Six Forks Rd, Ste 310, Raleigh, NC, 27609
Phone: 9197912000ext103
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Surveyors.
What education do you need to become a Surveyor in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Surveyor licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in North Carolina is 67,870. Salaries range from $43,990 (10th percentile) to $124,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Surveyors in North Carolina earn 7% below the national median of $72,740, with a state median of 67,870.
How many Surveyors work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 1,660 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors. Review agency details at https://www.ncbels.org/.