FAQ
Surveyor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a surveyor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a surveyor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about surveyors
Do surveyors need a license?
Yes, to sign official surveys.
Do surveyors need a degree?
Most states require a degree or long experience.
Is surveying growing?
Retirements are creating openings.
How much does a surveyor make?
The median annual wage for surveyors was $75,440 ($36.27 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $46,880 and the highest 10% earned more than $125,590.
How long does it take to become a surveyor?
Most people need about 4 years + experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in surveying or geomatics is typical, plus experience and a state license.
Do you need a degree to be a surveyor?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is surveyor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.8% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 3,100 openings each year. Upsides include licensed professional career; a common challenge is that weather and terrain.
What skills does a surveyor need?
Key technical skills include boundary law, gps and total stations, cad, and deed research. Employers also value attention to detail, problem solving, and communication.
What certifications are available for surveyors?
Common credentials include Professional Land Surveyor (PLS), Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam, Surveyor in Training (SIT), and FAA Part 107. All states license surveyors; licensure typically requires education, experience and NCEES exams.
Still deciding?
Try the Surveyor fit quiz, compare with Surveying Technician, or explore Surveyor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-1022 (Surveyors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Surveyors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.