NSPS Certified Survey Technician Level I
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Certified Survey Technician Program (CST) is a comprehensive national certification program for survey technicians, sponsored by the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). It is built for technicians who want independent verification of their capabilities and value, and it is also used by employers and educators who want a recognizable benchmark when judging a technician's standing. The program offers four levels of certification across two primary tracks - field and office - so a candidate can pursue a path that matches the work they actually do rather than a single generic credential. Certification is by examination, and the exam must be monitored by an approved Proctor. NSPS publishes a track chart, level descriptions and work elements, a program book, sample tests, a list of recommended books, and online training, so preparation can combine hands-on field or office experience with the published study materials and practice questions. Because the exam is proctored, candidates should plan their test date around finding an approved proctor and following NSPS's posted steps for setting up an exam. Always confirm current fees, retake rules, and renewal requirements directly with NSPS before applying, since program details are revised over time.
What you'll study
About NSPS Certified Survey Technician Level I preparation
Is the CST exam multiple choice?
NSPS publishes sample tests and study guides, so check those for the current item style before you sit. The source material does not spell out the item format, so treat any specific claim about question type as unverified and confirm it with NSPS or the sample tests.
How many certification levels and tracks are there?
Four levels of certification are offered in two primary tracks - field and office. Your track choice determines which level descriptions and work elements apply to you, so review the track chart and study guides before deciding where to start.
Who sponsors the CST program?
The Certified Survey Technician Program (CST) is a comprehensive national certification program for survey technicians, and is sponsored by the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS). NSPS publishes the program materials and administers the certification process.
Do I have to take the exam in person with a proctor?
Yes. Certification is by examination, which must be monitored by an approved Proctor. That means you need to arrange proctoring as part of setting up your exam, so start that step early rather than assuming you can test on demand.
How much does the exam cost, and what does a retake cost?
NSPS maintains a dedicated Exam and Retake Fees page, which is the authoritative source for current amounts. Fees are not stated in the program's summary material, so check that page directly before budgeting, and review the refund policy at the same time.
How long is the exam, and what score do I need to pass?
Those specifics are not published in the program's summary material. Check the Fact Sheet, CST Program Book, and How to Prepare pages, and contact NSPS if the answer is not stated there. Do not rely on secondhand figures, since program details are revised.
What is the best order to study in?
Start with the track chart and level descriptions to confirm which work elements apply to your level, then work through the study guides for that level. Follow with the sample tests to find gaps, and use the recommended books and online training to close them.
What trips people up most on this exam?
The most common problems are studying the wrong track or level, skipping the published work elements, and underestimating logistics such as securing an approved proctor. Confirm your level first, then build a study plan around the published materials rather than general surveying review alone.
Is the renewal process changing?
Yes. NSPS announces an upcoming change to the renewal process and directs candidates to its renewal information page. The details and effective date are not stated in the summary material, so read that page before your certification comes up for renewal.