Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in North Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Surveyor in North Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$78,750 median (8% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Dakota eligibility requirements for Surveyor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 4. Submit the application to ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of $78,750, Surveyors in North Dakota earn 8% above the national median of $72,740. North Dakota ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$78,750Hourly estimate
$37.868% above national median
Difference: +$6,010
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#15 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 Dakota | $78,750 | No educational requirements | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $46,610 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $86,260 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $79,230 | No educational requirements | No exam required | Varies by board |
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 Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors
PO Box 1357, Bismarck, ND, 58502-1357
Phone: 7012580786
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,640 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $45,740 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in North Dakota?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Surveyors in North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Surveyor licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in North Dakota is $78,750. Salaries range from $59,650 (10th percentile) to $117,930 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Surveyors in North Dakota earn 8% above the national median of $72,740, with a state median of $78,750.
How many Surveyors work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 310 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to North Dakota from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Surveyors in North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors. Review agency details at http://www.ndpelsboard.org/.
How often do you renew a Surveyor license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.