Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Business
Surveyor Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surveyor in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board)
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,380 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 73,380, Surveyors in Virginia earn 1% above the national median of $72,740. Virginia ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$73,380Hourly estimate
$35.281% above national median
Difference: +$640
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurveyor Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $73,380 | Varies by state board | State 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 |
| Kentucky | $67,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $74,690 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $67,870 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 60 | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | 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. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board)
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043678514
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,190 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $99,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surveyor in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Surveyors.
What is the typical Surveyor salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Surveyors in Virginia is 73,380. Salaries range from $48,080 (10th percentile) to $106,120 (90th percentile).
How does the Surveyor salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Surveyors in Virginia earn 1% above the national median of $72,740, with a state median of 73,380.
How many Surveyors work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 1,410 Surveyors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surveyor license to Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Surveyors in Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation / Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board). Review agency details at https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/APELS.