There are two key steps involved with arranging the CST exam. First, you must decide on an exam location (step 1a or 1b, below); as soon as that’s done, you can submit your exam application to NSPS.

Step 1(a) – choose a location: Examinees may choose from a variety of pre-arranged testing locations listed on the NSPS CST exam calendar.

In the event you cannot join one of these sessions, don’t fret! You can arrange to have the exam brought to you.

Step 1(b) – create the location. To have the exam brought to you, you must have an approved exam location and proctor. This is generally the best option for groups.

To proceed, please review the current proctor application materials on the NSPS site. If you’re unable to determine a location or decide on a proctor, submit an exam assistance request.

Step 2 – Complete your personal application.

2023 Fee Table for the NSPS Certified Survey Technician (CST) Exam:

Examinee = $180.00
Student, Active Military and Veterans = $120.00
Company/Agency MOU (at least 100 over a five year period) = $150 (1-100); $120 (101+)
Note: Annual renewal of certification = $40; Reinstatement fee = $10

Fees apply to all exam levels and are non-refundable. Discounts are available to NSPS members and large groups (10 or more, same time/place/proctor). Feel free to contact Sara Maggi at the number below with any questions; alternately, make checks payable to NSPS and direct all mail to:

NSPS CST Program
Attn: Sara Maggi
21 Byte Court, Suite H
Frederick, MD 21702
Tel: +1 (240) 439-4615 ext. 14

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Remember, preparation is your responsibility. CST’s open book exam policy tends to provide examinees with a false sense of security. The CST exam sequence is a challenging, timed test. You must be prepared to move purposefully through 4 or more hours of testing.

Study, review, and practice in the CST work elements will prepare you for the wide variety of questions you’ll encounter on the exam. Past test results have shown that many examinees with extensive experience and, in some cases, even formal surveying education did not pass an examination.

Learn CST helps examinees focus on each level’s work elements, locate resources and plan for the exam more effectively. For more information, review our registration options.