Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination Guide

Overview of the Geodetic Engineering Profession

Geodetic engineering is an essential profession in the Philippines, responsible for land surveying, mapping, boundary determination, and geo-spatial data analysis. Geodetic engineers are licensed professionals who support infrastructure development, land administration, environmental planning, disaster management, and construction projects. Because of this wide scope, the Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination (GELE) administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) is one of the most important technical board exams in the country.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination—including eligibility, requirements, exam scope, coverage, preparation tips, passing rates, and career opportunities after obtaining your license.

What Is the Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination?

The Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination (GELE) is a national board exam conducted by the PRC Board of Geodetic Engineering. Its purpose is to evaluate the competency of aspiring geodetic engineers in the fields of geomatics, land surveying, mapping science, geodesy, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS).

The exam is usually held twice a year in major testing centers such as Manila, Cebu, Davao, Baguio, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban, and Cagayan de Oro.

Who Can Take the Exam? (Qualifications)

To be eligible for the GELE, applicants must meet the following PRC requirements:

Educational Qualification

• Must be a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering from a CHED-recognized institution

• Graduates of foreign universities may apply if their credentials are evaluated and recognized by CHED

Additional Requirements

• Must be of good moral character

• Must have no criminal record involving moral turpitude

• Must submit all required documents before the application deadline

Documentary Requirements (PRC Application)

Applicants must prepare and submit the following:

Basic Requirements

• Original and photocopy of PSA Birth Certificate

• Original and photocopy of Transcript of Records (TOR) with scanned picture and the remark “For Board Examination Purposes”

• Original and photocopy of Diploma

• Valid NBI Clearance

• 3 pieces of passport-size ID photos in white background with full name tag

• Completed PRC Exam Application Form (through the PRC LERIS portal)

Additional Requirements

• For married female examinees: PSA Marriage Certificate

• For foreign graduates: CHED Certificate of Equivalency

• For applicants requesting special accommodations: Supporting medical documents

How to Apply for the Exam (Step-by-Step)

1. Create a PRC LERIS Account

   • Visit online.prc.gov.ph and register using a valid email.

2. Complete Your Profile

   • Upload a passport-style photo following PRC guidelines.

3. Select Your Examination

   • Choose “Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination”

   • Select preferred testing center and exam date

4. Choose an Appointment Slot

   • Confirm available slots at your selected regional office.

5. Pay the Examination Fee

   • PRC fee: around PHP 900–1,000

   • Payment methods: GCash, Paymaya, LandBank, credit card, or PRC cashier

6. Print Your Application Form

   • Bring this with your documents during processing.

7. Submit Documents at PRC Office

   • Proceed to your chosen PRC office on your appointment date.

8. Claim Your Notice of Admission (NOA)

   • This contains your exam schedule, seat number, and room assignment.

Exam Coverage: Subjects Included

The GELE consists of the following subjects:

Laws, Rules, and Regulations

• Philippine Land Laws

• Property registration

• Public land surveys

• Ethical practice in geodetic engineering

• Cadastral laws and procedures

Mathematics

• Algebra

• Calculus

• Probability and Statistics

• Numerical and computational methods

• Spherical trigonometry

Geodesy

• Physical geodesy

• Geodetic astronomy

• Geodetic control surveys

• Satellite geodesy

• Geoid and ellipsoid computations

Land Surveying

• Lot and boundary surveys

• Topographic surveys

• Hydrographic surveys

• Construction surveys

• Survey instruments and error theory

Cartography

• Map projection

• Map design and layout

• Thematic mapping

• Photogrammetry

• Remote sensing concepts

GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

• Data acquisition

• Spatial analysis

• GIS software and applications

• Digital mapping techniques

• Database management

Exam Format and Passing Grade

Exam Format

• Two-day examination

• Multiple-choice questions

• Divided into topic-specific subject clusters

Passing Rate

To pass the GELE, an examinee must:

• Obtain a general weighted average of at least 75%, and

• Not have a grade below 50% in any of the subjects

PRC releases results within 3–5 working days after the exam.

How to Prepare for the Exam

Begin With a Study Plan

Create a structured review schedule that covers all major subjects, allocating more time to areas you find difficult.

Use Trusted Reviewers

Commonly used materials include:

• Geodesy textbooks

• Land surveying manuals

• Cadastral survey references

• GIS and mapping science books

Join a Review Center (Optional but Helpful)

Many passers credit review centers for structured learning and mock exams.

Practice Computation and Problem-Solving

Surveying, geodesy, and mathematics involve lengthy computations. Practice regularly to build accuracy and speed.

Take Mock Exams

Simulate the actual test environment. Time-bound practice helps improve confidence.

Strengthen GIS Skills

Many exam questions now involve GIS applications, so updated software knowledge is essential.

Tips for Exam Day

• Get enough sleep the night before

• Bring your NOA, valid ID, pencils, erasers, calculator (allowed models only), snacks, and water

• Wear appropriate attire (collared shirt)

• Arrive at least one hour early

• Organize your materials the day before to avoid stress

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping computations during practice

• Over-focusing on minor topics while ignoring fundamentals

• Relying solely on review centers

• Not reviewing past PRC exam questions

• Last-minute cramming

After Passing: Oath-Taking and PRC ID

After passing the GELE:

1. Attend the Online or Face-to-Face Oath-Taking Ceremony

Details will be posted on PRC’s official website.

2. Apply for Registration

Prepare:

• Oath form

• Passport-size photos

• Registration fee

3. Claim Your PRC License Card and Certificate of Registration

Once you receive your PRC ID, you are officially a Licensed Geodetic Engineer.

Career Opportunities for Geodetic Engineers

Licensed geodetic engineers have strong career opportunities across public and private sectors:

Government Agencies

• DENR – Land Management Bureau

• NAMRIA

• DPWH

• LGUs (City and Municipal Engineering Offices)

• Department of Agriculture

Private Sector

• Construction companies

• Surveying and mapping firms

• Engineering and architectural firms

• Real estate development

• Mining, oil, and gas exploration companies

Specialized Fields

• GIS analyst

• Remote sensing specialist

• Drone mapping operator

• Photogrammetry expert

• Geospatial consultant

Overseas Opportunities

Geodetic engineers are also in demand abroad, especially in:

• Australia

• Middle East

• Canada

• Europe

• Singapore

Salary and Job Outlook

Starting salary ranges from PHP 25,000 to PHP 40,000 per month for entry-level roles.
Experienced geodetic engineers in specialized fields or managerial roles can earn PHP 60,000 to PHP 120,000+ monthly.

With rapid growth in real estate, urban planning, infrastructure, and digital mapping, the demand for geodetic engineers continues to rise.

Final Thoughts

The Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination is a challenging but rewarding journey. With proper preparation, discipline, and understanding of geospatial science fundamentals, aspiring geodetic engineers can pass the exam and build a meaningful career in land surveying, mapping, and geodesy.