Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Surveyor in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Professional Engineer; Land Surveyors; & Geologists Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,680 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 73,680, Surveyors in Pennsylvania earn 1% above the national median of $72,740. Pennsylvania ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$73,680Hourly estimate
$35.421% above national median
Difference: +$940
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $73,680 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $79,050 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $93,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $85,350 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $62,100 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $61,610 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $65,970 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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 State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Professional Engineer; Land Surveyors; & Geologists Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837049
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $95,640 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,330 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $92,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $103,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Surveyors.
What education do you need to become a Surveyor in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Surveyor licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in Pennsylvania is 73,680. Salaries range from $48,110 (10th percentile) to $111,130 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Surveyors in Pennsylvania earn 1% above the national median of $72,740, with a state median of 73,680.
How many Surveyors work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 1,360 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Professional Engineer; Land Surveyors; & Geologists Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/EngineersLandSurveyorsandGeologists/Pages/default.aspx.