Follow Continuing Education

TEACH LAND SURVEYING

Elevate Your Profession

We have developed a unique and powerful platform designed to elevate the entire land surveying profession. If you are an experienced land surveyor with valuable knowledge to share, we invite you to create a course on a topic you are passionate about. Our goal is to help you earn continuing education hours by working with the NSPS to get your course accredited.

5 Learners
Survey Legend

12940464095?profile=RESIZE_180x180

Comprehensive Guide to Continuing Education Requirements for Land Surveyors Across the U.S.

Continuing education for land surveyors is essential to maintaining professional competence in a rapidly evolving industry. Each U.S. state imposes different requirements to ensure surveyors stay updated on legal frameworks, technological advancements, and ethical responsibilities. Below is an authoritative overview of how continuing education is structured across various states, along with helpful links to each state-specific chapter for further engagement.

The Importance of Continuing Education for Land Surveyors

With advancements in technology, legal changes, and environmental considerations, the need for ongoing education is more crucial than ever. According to the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), nearly 50% of surveyors report being required to pursue continuing education to retain their licenses. As drone technology, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and evolving property laws reshape the industry, continuing education ensures that surveyors remain competent and compliant with state and national regulations.

12940470898?profile=RESIZE_710x

State-by-State Overview of Continuing Education Requirements

California Land Surveyors

In California, land surveyors must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. This includes courses on ethics and sustainability, aligning with the state's commitment to environmental protection and land conservation. The state's diverse geography, including coastal areas and deserts, demands a broad skill set for surveyors.

Texas Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Texas are required to complete 16 hours of continuing education biennially, with courses focusing on property law and advanced technologies like 3D scanning and GIS. These skills are essential for managing the state’s expansive land areas and navigating complex property rights.

New York Land Surveyors

New York imposes stringent continuing education requirements, mandating 24 hours of coursework every three years. Surveyors must stay updated on both state-specific and national land use laws, covering topics such as property boundaries, ethics, and legal standards.

Florida Land Surveyors

Florida's continuing education requirements focus on technical skills relevant to coastal and floodplain surveying, particularly important given the state’s vulnerability to hurricanes and rising sea levels. Surveyors must complete 24 hours of education biennially, with an emphasis on environmental regulations.

Alabama Land Surveyors

Alabama requires its surveyors to complete 15 hours of continuing education each year. Topics often include ethics and professional responsibility, ensuring that surveyors uphold high standards of practice while navigating the state’s evolving land development challenges.

Alaska Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Alaska face unique challenges due to the state’s vast and remote landscapes. Surveyors must complete 15 hours of continuing education every two years, with an emphasis on environmental concerns and land use ethics, which are critical in Alaska's fragile ecosystems.

Arizona Land Surveyors

Arizona mandates that surveyors complete 30 hours of continuing education every three years. Key areas of focus include legal descriptions, property rights, and the use of advanced surveying technologies, which are essential in managing Arizona's rapid urban expansion.

Arkansas Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Arkansas are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The state’s focus is on legal and ethical practices, ensuring that surveyors are well-versed in state-specific laws and regulations affecting land surveying.

Colorado Land Surveyors

Colorado mandates that land surveyors complete 30 hours of continuing education biennially. Courses cover traditional surveying techniques as well as advancements in technology, such as GIS and GPS, ensuring that surveyors stay competitive in this rapidly evolving field.

Connecticut Land Surveyors

Connecticut requires surveyors to complete 15 hours of continuing education annually. These hours must focus on advanced surveying techniques, legal compliance, and professional development, reflecting the needs of the state’s growing land surveying community.

Delaware Land Surveyors

Delaware requires surveyors to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. The emphasis is placed on ethical standards and legal issues surrounding land use, ensuring that professionals remain in compliance with state-specific laws.

Georgia Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Georgia must complete 15 hours of continuing education annually, with a focus on innovative surveying practices and legal knowledge. This ensures that surveyors are prepared for the complexities of land ownership and development within the state.

Hawaii Land Surveyors

Hawaii’s land surveyors face unique geographical challenges, including coastal erosion and volcanic terrain. Continuing education requirements include courses on local land use laws and environmental considerations, critical for the preservation of Hawaii’s ecosystems.

Idaho Land Surveyors

Idaho surveyors must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. A key focus is on integrating technology into surveying, particularly GIS and remote sensing techniques, to effectively manage the state’s diverse and often rugged terrain.

Illinois Land Surveyors

Illinois requires land surveyors to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, with an emphasis on technological advancements like drone surveying and software applications that enhance data accuracy and fieldwork efficiency.

Indiana Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Indiana must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. The state emphasizes ethical practices and a deep understanding of the legal landscape, ensuring surveyors are well-prepared for property rights issues.

Iowa Land Surveyors

In Iowa, land surveyors are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education biennially. Courses focus on both technical and professional development to ensure that surveyors are equipped to handle various land use projects.

Kansas Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Kansas face fewer continuing education requirements compared to other states, with 20 hours of continuing education every two years. Local associations often provide additional training resources to help surveyors stay updated on industry advancements.

Kentucky Land Surveyors

Kentucky surveyors are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. Emphasis is placed on land stability, preservation practices, and technical training relevant to the state’s unique topography.

Louisiana Land Surveyors

Given Louisiana’s vulnerability to flooding and hurricanes, surveyors must complete 15 hours of continuing education biennially, with a focus on land development ethics and environmental impact. This specialized training equips surveyors to handle the state's marshy and flood-prone areas.

Maine Land Surveyors

Maine requires its land surveyors to complete 24 hours of continuing education biennially, with courses emphasizing compliance with local laws and ethical practices. This education ensures surveyors can effectively manage land use and preservation.

Maryland Land Surveyors

Maryland mandates that surveyors complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years. The training programs focus on technical skills, legal compliance, and the latest legislation affecting land use in the state.

Massachusetts Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Massachusetts must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. Programs focus on regulatory compliance, ethical practices, and technical expertise, ensuring that professionals are prepared for the latest challenges in land use.

Minnesota Land Surveyors

Minnesota’s continuing education requirements include 24 hours of coursework every two years, with a focus on state-specific laws and ethical practices. This ensures that surveyors are proficient in technical skills while understanding the unique regulations governing land use.

Mississippi Land Surveyors

Mississippi requires surveyors to complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years, with training focused on technical skills and the legal landscape. This professional development helps surveyors manage land use regulations effectively.

Missouri Land Surveyors

Missouri requires 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with a focus on legal updates and technical training. This ensures that surveyors are prepared for the complexities of property rights and land use regulations in the state.

Montana Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Montana must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years, focusing on environmental sustainability and legal responsibilities. The state’s vast and diverse landscapes require specialized training in land preservation practices.

Nebraska Land Surveyors

Nebraska surveyors must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The curriculum emphasizes technical skills and ethical practices, particularly in understanding local land use regulations.

Nevada Land Surveyors

Nevada surveyors are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with an emphasis on land use legislation and technical skills pertinent to the state’s unique geographical conditions.

New Hampshire Land Surveyors

Surveyors in New Hampshire must complete 24 hours of continuing education biennially, with a focus on legal standards, technical skills, and ethical practices. These programs are essential for managing local land use issues.

New Jersey Land Surveyors

New Jersey requires surveyors to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. This training covers topics such as land development, environmental regulations, and ethical practices, ensuring professionals remain knowledgeable about state and national surveying standards.

New Mexico Land Surveyors

New Mexico mandates that surveyors complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. Courses emphasize the state’s unique geography, legal updates, and ethical considerations, ensuring surveyors are prepared for local land use challenges.

North Carolina Land Surveyors

Surveyors in North Carolina must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The curriculum includes a mix of technical skills and legal knowledge, ensuring surveyors stay proficient in land use regulations and property rights.

North Dakota Land Surveyors

North Dakota requires surveyors to complete 24 hours of continuing education biennially. The programs focus on understanding the state's unique geographical and environmental challenges, with a particular emphasis on land preservation.

Ohio Land Surveyors

Ohio surveyors must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The curriculum includes technical training and updates on legal standards, ensuring surveyors are well-prepared to navigate the state’s specific surveying landscape.

Oklahoma Land Surveyors

Oklahoma mandates 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with an emphasis on both compliance with local laws and advancements in technology pertinent to surveying practices. This ensures surveyors stay competitive in the industry.

Oregon Land Surveyors

Oregon requires 30 hours of continuing education biennially, with an emphasis on ethics, technical skills, and environmental laws. Surveyors in the state are trained to focus on sustainable practices while staying compliant with regulatory requirements.

Pennsylvania Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Pennsylvania are required to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years. Programs often combine technical skill-building with ethical training, ensuring professionals are knowledgeable about state-specific regulations and best practices.

Rhode Island Land Surveyors

Rhode Island mandates that surveyors complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, focusing on local land use laws and ethical considerations. This training ensures compliance with the state’s unique surveying landscape.

South Carolina Land Surveyors

South Carolina requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years. Surveyors are encouraged to focus on legal updates and technical skills specific to the area, ensuring they are well-versed in the local implications of land use and surveying standards.

South Dakota Land Surveyors

Surveyors in South Dakota must complete 30 hours of continuing education biennially, with a mix of traditional surveying techniques and contemporary technological applications. This training helps practitioners adapt to the changing landscape of the profession.

Tennessee Land Surveyors

Tennessee surveyors are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The training emphasizes practical skills and knowledge of state regulations, ensuring surveyors remain proficient in navigating local land use challenges.

Utah Land Surveyors

Utah mandates that surveyors complete 30 hours of continuing education biennially, integrating technical training and ethical considerations. The courses emphasize compliance with state laws and sustainable practices.

Vermont Land Surveyors

Vermont requires surveyors to complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, with a focus on natural resource preservation and understanding local land use legislation. This fosters a commitment to sustainable land development practices.

Virginia Land Surveyors

Virginia surveyors must complete 30 hours of continuing education biennially. The focus is on technical skills and ethical practices, ensuring that surveyors are knowledgeable about current legislation affecting land use and the latest advancements in surveying techniques.

Washington Land Surveyors

Washington mandates that surveyors complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, emphasizing ethical standards, technical skills, and environmental awareness. The state’s evolving regulations make this education essential for practicing surveyors.

West Virginia Land Surveyors

West Virginia requires 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The state's framework prioritizes community engagement and collaborative learning, encouraging surveyors to share knowledge on best practices related to land surveying and use.

Wisconsin Land Surveyors

Surveyors in Wisconsin must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The courses cover technical training, ethics, and knowledge of local land surveying laws, ensuring professionals can navigate Wisconsin’s unique legal landscape.

Wyoming Land Surveyors

Wyoming surveyors must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with a focus on environmental sustainability and adapting to the unique conditions of the state’s diverse terrains. Courses also include legal frameworks relevant to land surveying.

State Continuing Education Hours Required (biennially) Focus Areas Licensing Board Link Education Category
California 30 Ethics, Sustainability Link High (30+ hrs)
Texas 16 Property Law, Technology Link Low (below 20 hrs)
New York 24 Ethics, Law Link Moderate (20-29 hrs)
Florida 24 Technical, Environmental Link Moderate (20-29 hrs)
Alabama 15 Ethics, Professional Responsibility Link Low (below 20 hrs)
Alaska 15 Environmental, Land Use Ethics Link Low (below 20 hrs)
Arizona 30 Legal Descriptions, Property Rights Link High (30+ hrs)
Arkansas 30 Legal, Ethical Practices Link High (30+ hrs)
Colorado 30 Technology, GIS Link High (30+ hrs)
Connecticut 15 Regulatory Compliance, Ethics Link Low (below 20 hrs)
Delaware 24 Ethical Standards, Legal Issues Link Moderate (20-29 hrs)
Georgia 15 Innovative Practices, Legal Knowledge Link Low (below 20 hrs)
Hawaii 24 Land Use Laws, Environmental Link Moderate (20-29 hrs)
Idaho 30 GIS, Remote Sensing Link High (30+ hrs)

12940469692?profile=RESIZE_710x

12940470662?profile=RESIZE_710x

Which states have the most stringent continuing education requirements for land surveyors

## Highest Requirements (30 hours biennially or annually)

1. California: 30 hours every two years[1]
2. Arkansas: 30 hours every two years[1]
3. Colorado: 30 hours biennially[1]
4. Idaho: 30 hours every two years[1]
5. Iowa: 30 hours biennially[1]
6. Kentucky: 30 hours every two years[1]
7. Missouri: 30 hours every two years[1]
8. Montana: 30 hours every two years[1]
9. Nebraska: 30 hours every two years[1]
10. Nevada: 30 hours every two years[1]
11. New Mexico: 30 hours every two years[1]
12. North Carolina: 30 hours every two years[1]
13. Ohio: 30 hours every two years[1]
14. Oklahoma: 30 hours every two years[1]
15. Oregon: 30 hours biennially[1]
16. South Dakota: 30 hours biennially[1]
17. Tennessee: 30 hours every two years[1]
18. Utah: 30 hours biennially[1]
19. Virginia: 30 hours biennially[1]
20. West Virginia: 30 hours every two years[1]
21. Wisconsin: 30 hours every two years[1]
22. Wyoming: 30 hours every two years[1]

## Notable Mentions

- New York: 24 hours every three years[1]
- Florida: 24 hours biennially[1]
- Connecticut: 15 hours annually (equivalent to 30 hours biennially)[1]

These states have the highest number of required continuing education hours, typically mandating 30 hours every two years. This demonstrates their commitment to ensuring land surveyors stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, legal requirements, and ethical standards in the field[1].

12940471671?profile=RESIZE_710x12940472894?profile=RESIZE_710x

What are the most common topics covered in continuing education courses for land surveyors

12940474889?profile=RESIZE_710x

Based on the comprehensive guide above, the most common topics covered in continuing education courses for land surveyors across the United States include:

Technical Skills

  • Advanced surveying techniques
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Global Positioning System (GPS) technology
  • 3D scanning
  • Drone technology and remote sensing
  • Software applications for data accuracy and fieldwork efficiency

Legal and Regulatory Knowledge

  • State-specific land use laws
  • Property rights and boundaries
  • Legal descriptions
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Updates on local, state, and national legislation affecting land use

Ethical Practices

  • Professional responsibility
  • Ethical standards in surveying
  • Land development ethics

Environmental Considerations

  • Sustainability practices
  • Environmental regulations
  • Land conservation
  • Coastal and floodplain surveying
  • Environmental impact assessment

Specialized Geographic Knowledge

  • Local topography and terrain challenges
  • Coastal erosion (in relevant states)
  • Flood-prone areas management
  • Desert and mountainous terrain surveying

Professional Development

  • Business practices
  • Community engagement
  • Collaborative learning

Technological Advancements

  • Integration of new technologies in surveying
  • Adapting to industry innovations
These topics ensure that land surveyors stay updated on the latest technological advancements, legal requirements, ethical standards, and environmental considerations relevant to their profession. The focus areas may vary slightly from state to state, depending on local geographic and regulatory needs.
12940481266?profile=RESIZE_710x

Conclusion

The continuing education requirements for land surveyors across the U.S. ensure that professionals remain informed about technological advancements, legal changes, and ethical standards. Surveyors in every stateβ€”from California to Wyomingβ€”are equipped to navigate the complexities of their local environments through rigorous ongoing education.

For surveyors looking for a more structured and accessible way to meet these requirements, the L.E.A.R.N Surveying continuing education program, available at L.E.A.R.N Surveying, provides a robust platform for professional development. With state-specific courses, ethical training, and technical advancements, it offers a comprehensive resource for surveyors to stay at the forefront of the industry.

Continuing education ensures that land surveyors remain competitive, competent, and compliant with state regulationsβ€”paving the way for excellence in the field.

You need to be a member of Land Surveyors United - Surveying Education Community to add thoughts!

Join Land Surveyors United - Surveying Education Community

Email me when people reply –

Continuing Education Requirements

State Required Hours Allowed Course Types Requirements for Course Creators
Alabama 15 Online, in-person, webinars Course must align with the state’s surveying standards and cover topics relevant to state regulations.
Alaska 24 Online, in-person, webinars Courses should provide practical skills and technical updates, adhering to state’s licensing requirements.
Arizona Varies Online, in-person, webinars Creators must include industry best practices and legal compliance with Arizona land surveying laws.
Arkansas 30 Online, in-person, webinars Focus on state-specific survey methods and offer both theoretical and hands-on experience.
California Varies Online, in-person, webinars Creators need to ensure course meets California’s licensing standards and includes ethics training.
Colorado None N/A No CE required, but optional courses must align with modern surveying practices.
Connecticut Varies Online, in-person, webinars Creators should emphasize legal and regulatory updates specific to Connecticut.
Delaware 24 Online, in-person, webinars Must address state-specific laws and regulations and provide practical solutions to common survey challenges.
Florida 24 Online, in-person, webinars Focus on coastal surveying and ethical considerations in Florida’s unique geographic environment.
Georgia 15 Online, in-person, webinars Courses must cover the state's land surveying standards and integrate legal changes.
Hawaii None N/A No specific requirements, but creators should include updates on the latest technology and best practices.
Idaho 30 Online, in-person, webinars Courses should include a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical applications relevant to Idaho.
Illinois 20 Online, in-person, webinars Creators must ensure alignment with Illinois surveying regulations and provide continuing education in ethics.
Indiana 24 Online, in-person, webinars Courses should focus on state-specific surveying challenges and provide practical exercises.
Iowa 30 Online, in-person, webinars Creators must emphasize state regulations, practical experience, and hands-on learning.
Kansas 30 Online, in-person, webinars Courses must focus on local surveying challenges and best practices for accuracy and compliance.
Kentucky 8 Online, in-person, webinars Creators should provide detailed knowledge of state laws and integrate ethical standards into the curriculum.
Louisiana 8 Online, in-person, webinars Course must focus on Louisiana’s unique coastal and boundary surveying challenges.
Maine 8 Online, in-person, webinars Include a comprehensive overview of state-specific regulations and practical techniques.
Maryland 24 Online, in-person, webinars Course creators should address coastal surveying and legal updates pertinent to Maryland.
Massachusetts Varies Online, in-person, webinars Ensure that the course covers legal standards and technological advancements in land surveying.
Michigan 30 Online, in-person, webinars Creators should cover Michigan’s regulatory requirements and emphasize ethics and professionalism.
Minnesota 24 Online, in-person, webinars Must integrate updates on state laws and best practices in cold-weather surveying.
Mississippi Varies Online, in-person, webinars Focus on state-specific land use issues and technological advancements in surveying.
Missouri 20 Online, in-person, webinars Creators should include both theoretical and hands-on learning relevant to Missouri’s legal framework.
Montana 30 Online, in-person, webinars Include a focus on mountainous terrain surveying and updates on state land laws.
Nebraska 30 Online, in-person, webinars Ensure courses cover Nebraska-specific surveying challenges, including legal compliance.
Nevada 30 Online, in-person, webinars Courses should include desert land surveying techniques and local regulations.
New Hampshire 8 Online, in-person, webinars Emphasize state-specific regulatory and environmental factors in land surveying.
New Jersey 24 Online, in-person, webinars Must cover coastal and urban surveying practices in New Jersey.
New Mexico 30 Online, in-person, webinars Include state-specific boundary and desert surveying techniques.
New York 24 Online, in-person, webinars Creators should address legal changes and urban surveying techniques specific to New York.
North Carolina 30 Online, in-person, webinars Emphasize legal updates and practical surveying techniques for North Carolina.
North Dakota 30 Online, in-person, webinars Courses should focus on boundary issues and legal compliance specific to the state.
Ohio 24 Online, in-person, webinars Creators should include Ohio’s legal requirements, practical techniques, and case studies in land surveying.
Oklahoma 30 Online, in-person, webinars Course must align with Oklahoma's land surveying laws, focusing on both technical skills and ethics.
Oregon 30 Online, in-person, webinars Ensure courses address Oregon's specific environmental and legal considerations in land surveying.
Pennsylvania 24 Online, in-person, webinars Include state-specific legal updates, boundary disputes, and professional ethics.
Rhode Island 20 Online, in-person, webinars Focus on coastal and urban land surveying challenges in Rhode Island.
South Carolina 24 Online, in-person, webinars Ensure course material includes legal updates, ethics, and coastal surveying practices.
South Dakota 30 Online, in-person, webinars Creators should focus on state regulations and practical boundary surveying techniques.
Tennessee 30 Online, in-person, webinars Course should emphasize state-specific laws, boundary issues, and ethical considerations.
Texas 12 Online, in-person, webinars Ensure alignment with Texas’ legal standards and emphasize oil, gas, and boundary surveying.
Utah 30 Online, in-person, webinars Include a mix of desert land surveying techniques, state regulations, and ethical practices.
Vermont Varies Online, in-person, webinars Focus on rural land surveying techniques and Vermont’s specific land laws.
Virginia 16 Online, in-person, webinars Courses must emphasize legal updates, ethical conduct, and Virginia's unique surveying challenges.
Washington Varies Online, in-person, webinars Include coastal and environmental land surveying techniques and focus on compliance with Washington laws.
West Virginia 8 Online, in-person, webinars Course must cover local regulations and best practices for rural land surveying.
Wisconsin 20 Online, in-person, webinars Ensure coverage of Wisconsin’s legal requirements and focus on boundary disputes and ethics.
Wyoming Varies Online, in-person, webinars Course creators should emphasize rural surveying techniques and Wyoming’s state regulations.