Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course 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
RI Department of Business Regulation • Board of Registration for Professional Land Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$52,000 median (29% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 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 Rhode Island
With a median salary of 52,000, Surveyors in Rhode Island earn 29% below the national median of $72,740. Rhode Island ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$52,000Hourly estimate
$25.0029% below national median
Difference: -$20,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $52,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $84,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $76,760 | Specific course required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Business Regulation • Board of Registration for Professional Land Surveyors
560 Jefferson Blvd, First Floor, Warwick, RI, 02886
Phone: 4018895488
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $100,880 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Surveyors.
What education do you need to become a Surveyor in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Surveyor licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in Rhode Island is 52,000. Salaries range from $49,640 (10th percentile) to $79,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Surveyors in Rhode Island earn 29% below the national median of $72,740, with a state median of 52,000.
How many Surveyors work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 130 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Business Regulation / Board of Registration for Professional Land Surveyors. Review agency details at https://bdp.ri.gov/land-surveyors.