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Question 1
If a Public Land Survey corner is used only as a "Basis of Bearings," what must you do?
Correct Answer:
You need to file a record for it
Explanation:
When a Public Land Survey corner is used solely as a "Basis of Bearings," it indicates that this corner is serving as a reference point from which other surveys can be measured. In the context of land surveying in Oklahoma, it is crucial to ensure that this reference point is officially recognized and available for use in future land transactions or disputes. Filing a record for the corner serves multiple purposes: it formalizes the use of the corner as a basis of bearings, ensuring that other surveyors can reference it without ambiguity. This action also preserves the integrity of the survey data, contributes to the public land survey system, and maintains an accurate historical record of land boundaries. Such recordings help mitigate potential disputes over property boundaries by providing clear documentation regarding how the corner was established and used. In contrast, options that suggest no record is necessary, filing a temporary record, or filing only by request from a landowner do not align with best practices in land surveying. These options could lead to confusion or disputes in the future, as they do not maintain a perpetual public record of the survey corner that others may rely on for their work. Therefore, filing a record ensures legal protection and clarity, making it the most appropriate action when using a Public Land Survey corner as a basis
Question 2
What is the process of combining two lots into one called?
Correct Answer:
Lot Combination (or Consolidation)
Explanation:
The process of combining two lots into one is referred to as Lot Combination, also known as consolidation. This term is frequently used in real estate and land development discourse to describe the legal and administrative process of merging smaller parcels of land into a single, larger parcel. This can facilitate easier development, improve property usability, and streamline property tax assessments. Lot Combination typically involves several steps, including filing necessary paperwork with local government authorities, providing surveys of the land, and ensuring compliance with zoning laws and regulations. Understanding this process is particularly important for land developers and real estate professionals, as it impacts how land can be utilized and developed moving forward. Other terms, such as Parcel Merging or Lot Reconfiguration, may imply similar concepts but are not the officially recognized phrases within the context of land surveying and real estate for the action of combining properties. Subdivision Integration usually refers to a broader process involving multiple lots rather than the straightforward combination of two lots. Thus, Lot Combination is the precise terminology used in this context.
Question 3
What are the corners called that run up from the South and intersect the Standard Parallel?
Correct Answer:
Closing Corners
Explanation:
The correct term for the corners that run up from the South and intersect the Standard Parallel is "Correction Corners." Correction Corners are specifically used in the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) to address the curvature of the Earth and ensure that land parcels are accurately measured over large distances. As surveyors move north from a baseline, the corners that they establish at intervals will intersect with the Standard Parallels, which are established to create a grid system on the earth's surface. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of land descriptions and ensuring that each surveyed parcel adheres to the intended measurements. In comparison, Standard Corners would refer to points that are used for establishing the basic grid, but they do not specifically describe those that adjust for the earth's curvature. Closing Corners generally refer to the terminal points in a closed tract of land and are not specifically tied to the established standard parallels. Reference Corners might suggest points of reference for surveys but do not denote the specific adjustment needed for land surveying in relation to the Standard Parallel.
Question 4
What should a surveyor do if they cannot find the original corner monument?
Correct Answer:
Verify using record measurements and accessories
Explanation:
When a surveyor cannot find the original corner monument, verifying using record measurements and accessories is the proper course of action. This approach involves checking existing records, such as deeds or previous surveys, to establish the original location of the corner based on available evidence. Accessories include physical markers or reference points that might have been used in previous surveys, which can help reconstruct the precise location of the missing monument. Conducting this verification ensures that the survey remains accurate and legally defensible. It is essential for maintaining consistency and reliability in land boundaries, which is a fundamental aspect of surveying practice. This method respects prior documentation and the integrity of the property lines, adding a layer of diligence to the survey process. The other options, such as ignoring the issue or using only last known coordinates, would compromise the accuracy and legality of the survey results. Calling a specialist might be a prudent step in certain contexts, but relying on thorough verification with available records is the most practical and standard practice in surveying.
Question 5
What is the minimum number of Professional Development Hours (PDH) required in "Ethics" for renewal in Oklahoma?
Correct Answer:
1 PDH in Ethics
Explanation:
In Oklahoma, the minimum requirement for Professional Development Hours (PDH) in the category of "Ethics" for the renewal of a professional license is indeed set at one PDH. This ensures that licensed professionals maintain awareness of ethical standards and practices relevant to their fields, which is crucial for promoting integrity and professionalism. While there may be other categories with varying hour requirements for PDH overall, the specific mandate for ethics reflects the emphasis placed on ethical conduct within the profession. Keeping up with these requirements helps ensure that professionals are well-informed and act responsibly in accordance with established ethical guidelines. The other options, which suggest higher requirements or no specific hours, do not align with the current regulations in Oklahoma for ethics training.
Question 1
Exam overview

About this Exam

The Oklahoma Law and Surveying (OLS) Examination is the critical final step for individuals seeking licensure as a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) in the state of Oklahoma. This exam is specifically designed to test an applicant's comprehensive knowledge of Oklahoma-specific laws, regulations, and practices that govern the profession. It is not an introductory test; rather, it is for candidates who have already demonstrated their foundational knowledge by passing the national NCEES Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) and Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exams, and have met the state's stringent education and experience requirements.

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Additional Information

What the Course Entails and Exam Details

The OLS exam focuses exclusively on the unique aspects of surveying within Oklahoma's jurisdiction. While a "course" per se is not standard, candidates must self-study a specific body of knowledge. The core topics covered in the OLS examination include:

  • United States Public Land Survey System (USPLSS) in Oklahoma: Detailed knowledge of the original GLO surveys, procedures for restoring lost or obliterated corners, and mathematical determination of aliquot parts and government lot boundaries.

  • Oklahoma Minimum Standards for the Practice of Land Surveying: A deep understanding of the technical standards for all types of surveys conducted in the state.

  • Oklahoma Statutes and Rules: Comprehensive familiarity with the state laws that govern the practice, including the Corner Perpetuation and Filing Act and the Oklahoma Certified Corner Record form.

  • Riparian Boundaries: Specific rules regarding boundaries along water bodies in Oklahoma.


What to Expect in the Final Exam

The OLS Examination is a two-part process.

Part A is a two-hour, closed-book examination. This section primarily focuses on technical applications of the USPLSS and the Oklahoma Minimum Standards. Candidates can expect a variety of question formats, including:

  • Multiple-choice questions

  • Short-answer questions

  • Description and sketch questions

For this section, examinees must demonstrate their ability to apply mathematical competency, particularly in performing proportional measurements for corner restoration, using an approved calculator.

Part B is an open-book examination covering the statutes and rules governing the practice of land surveying in Oklahoma. This part is typically administered after the applicant has successfully completed all other examinations.

While the Board does not publish a precise passing score for the OLS, a 70% or higher is a common benchmark for professional licensure exams.


How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation for the OLS exam requires dedicated self-study focused on state-specific resources. Effective study strategies include:

  • Review Official Specifications: Begin with the "Oklahoma Law and Surveying Examination Specifications" provided by the Oklahoma Board. This document outlines the exact topics and weightings.

  • Master the Core Documents: Study the current BLM Manual of Instructions (for USPLSS), the "Instruction Manual for Oklahoma Certified Corner Records," and the official text of the Oklahoma Minimum Standards.

  • Practice USPLSS Problems: Solve complex problems related to proportional measurement and corner restoration, simulating the math you will face on Part A.

  • Know the Statutes: For Part B, create a well-organized reference binder of all relevant Oklahoma statutes and Board rules.

The OLS exam is administered quarterly by the Oklahoma State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. It is usually held at the Board's office in Oklahoma City or at alternative Board-approved, proctored locations.


Job Opportunities from the Course

Earning your PLS license in Oklahoma opens the door to a challenging and rewarding career, allowing you to take on leadership roles and legally stamp professional surveys. Licensed surveyors are in high demand across multiple sectors. Key career paths include:

  • Professional Land Surveyor (PLS)

  • Survey Project Manager

  • Boundary Analyst/Boundary Surveyor

  • County Surveyor

  • Geomatics Engineer

  • Transportation Surveyor (for ODOT or private contractors)

  • Oil and Gas Surveyor/Pipeline Surveyor

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