What is the SAMS exam and who administers it?

The SAMS exam is the accreditation examination administered by the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors, a nonprofit professional organization founded in 1987. Passing it is required to earn the Accredited Marine Surveyor (AMS) credential, which certifies competency in yacht and small craft, cargo, hull and machinery, or fishing vessel surveying.

What is the format of the SAMS AMS exam?

The SAMS AMS exam is a written, proctored test combining multiple-choice questions with short-answer and essay components. It evaluates practical surveying knowledge, report writing ability, and understanding of ABYC standards, NFPA 302, USCG regulations, and industry best practices across your chosen specialty discipline.

How many questions are on the SAMS exam?

The SAMS AMS exam typically contains around 100 questions split between multiple-choice items and written response sections. The exact count varies by specialty discipline, with the yacht and small craft track being the most common. Candidates are generally given four hours to complete the full examination.

What is the passing score for the SAMS exam?

Candidates must score at least 80 percent to pass the SAMS AMS accreditation exam. This threshold applies across all specialty disciplines and reflects the society's emphasis on professional competency. Applicants who fall short may retake the exam after a waiting period and additional preparation.

What topics are covered on the SAMS exam?

Topics include vessel construction and materials, marine electrical systems, fuel and propulsion systems, through-hull fittings, corrosion, fire protection per NFPA 302, ABYC safety standards, USCG equipment requirements, damage assessment, valuation methodology, and report writing. Specialty tracks add discipline-specific content on cargo, hull and machinery, or commercial fishing vessels.

What are the eligibility requirements for the SAMS exam?

Applicants need at least five years of full-time marine surveying experience, or three years as a SAMS Surveyor Associate (SA), before sitting for the AMS exam. Candidates must also submit sample survey reports, professional references, proof of liability insurance, and complete required SAMS-approved continuing education coursework.

How do I register for the SAMS exam?

Registration is handled through the SAMS national office at marinesurvey.org. Candidates submit an AMS application package with experience documentation, sample reports, references, and application fees. Once approved by the credentialing committee, SAMS schedules the exam at regional meetings or designated proctored testing locations.

What are the best ways to prepare for the SAMS exam?

Effective preparation includes studying the ABYC Standards and Technical Information Reports, NFPA 302, and USCG Code of Federal Regulations Title 46. Attend SAMS educational conferences, complete the Chapman School of Seamanship surveying program, review sample AMS reports, and take timed practice tests to build familiarity with question formats.

SAMS Test: Certified Marine Surveyor Examination

Free SAMS practice test with questions and answer explanations. Prepare for the 2026 May exam with instant scoring.

SAMS - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified By Captain David HarringtonMay 7, 202660 min read

SAMS Test: Certified Marine Surveyor Examination

⏱️4 HoursTime Limit

📝100Questions

✅75%Pass Rate

💵$300Exam Fee

The SAMS Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors requires candidates to pass specific specialty examinations. Most applicants start with the Yacht and Small Craft Surveyor exam or the Hull and Machinery exam depending on their expertise. Try our IICS certification practice test.

Sams Accredited Marine Surveyor - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified study guide

SAMS Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the SAMS - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

SAMS Cargo Surveyors

SAMS Exam Questions covering Cargo Surveyors. Master SAMS Test concepts for certification prep.

SAMS Commercial Vessel Surveyors

Free SAMS Practice Test featuring Commercial Vessel Surveyors. Improve your SAMS Exam score with mock test prep.

SAMS Hull and Machinery Surveyors

SAMS Mock Exam on Hull and Machinery Surveyors. SAMS Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

SAMS - Society of Accredited Marine Survey...

SAMS Test Prep for - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Damage and Valuation Surveys. Practice SAMS Quiz questions and boost your score.

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SAMS Questions and Answers on - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Ethics and Professional Conduct. Free SAMS practice for exam readiness.

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SAMS Mock Test covering - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Hull Inspection and Materials. Online SAMS Test practice with instant feedback.

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Free SAMS Quiz on - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Propulsion and Machinery Systems. SAMS Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.

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Free SAMS Test covering - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified Vessel Electrical Systems. Practice and track your SAMS exam readiness.

SAMS Yacht and Small Craft Surveyors

SAMS Exam Questions covering Yacht and Small Craft Surveyors. Master SAMS Test concepts for certification prep.

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SAMS Exam Flashcards

Quick review for SAMS Accredited Marine Surveyor concepts

⚓What is the primary purpose of a marine survey?

To determine the condition, value, and seaworthiness of a vessel for owners, buyers, or underwriters.

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📏What does ABYC stand for in marine standards?

American Boat and Yacht Council, which sets safety standards for design and construction.

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⚡What is galvanic corrosion?

Electrochemical damage caused when two dissimilar metals are connected in an electrolyte like seawater.

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📜What is a SAMS "Surveyor Associate"?

An entry-level member working toward Accreditation who has not yet passed the AMS exam.

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🔥What fire extinguisher type is for electrical fires?

Class C extinguishers are designed specifically for energized electrical equipment fires.

SAMS YACHT SURVEYOR QUIZ

SAMS Exam Study Guide

Prepare effectively with our detailed SAMS exam study guide. Understanding the marine surveyor requirements and testing policies will help you become a SAMS Accredited Marine Surveyor.

What is the SAMS exam?	The SAMS exam is a comprehensive test required to become an Accredited Marine Surveyor (AMS). It assesses technical knowledge in specific fields like yachts, commercial vessels, or cargo.
Who takes the SAMS test?	SAMS Surveyor Candidates who have completed their Associate period and met experience requirements take this test to achieve full Accreditation status.
Is SAMS better than NAMS?	Both NAMS and SAMS marine surveyors are respected. SAMS focuses heavily on individual accreditation, while NAMS (National Association of Marine Surveyors) also certifies hull and cargo specialists.
What does AMS stand for?	AMS stands for Accredited Marine Surveyor, the highest professional designation awarded by the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors.

What is the SAMS exam?

The SAMS exam is a comprehensive test required to become an Accredited Marine Surveyor (AMS). It assesses technical knowledge in specific fields like yachts, commercial vessels, or cargo.

Who takes the SAMS test?

SAMS Surveyor Candidates who have completed their Associate period and met experience requirements take this test to achieve full Accreditation status.

Is SAMS better than NAMS?

Both NAMS and SAMS marine surveyors are respected. SAMS focuses heavily on individual accreditation, while NAMS (National Association of Marine Surveyors) also certifies hull and cargo specialists.

What does AMS stand for?

AMS stands for Accredited Marine Surveyor, the highest professional designation awarded by the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors.

For the Yacht and Small Craft Surveyor exam, a deep understanding of ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) standards is non-negotiable. These standards form the backbone of safety inspections for recreational vessels. Try our SSCP certification practice test.

SAMS CARGO SURVEYOR TEST

SAMS Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

How to Become a SAMS Surveyor

The path to becoming a Certified Marine Surveyor with SAMS involves mentorship, experience, and testing. Follow this timeline to achieve your marine surveyor certification.

Apply for Membership - Join the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors as an Associate member.
Gain Experience - Accumulate 5 years of verified marine surveying experience under mentorship.
Complete Education - Fulfill continuing education credits in marine surveyor certification courses.
Submit Surveys - Submit sample survey reports for review by the SAMS testing committee.
Pass SAMS Exam - Take and pass the specialty exam (e.g., Yacht and Small Craft Surveyor).
Interview - Complete a professional interview with regional SAMS officers.
Maintain Status - Pay dues and adhere to the SAMS code of ethics to remain an Accredited Marine Surveyor.

Expect to invest between $3,500 and $5,000 in your first year, including membership, testing, insurance, and setup costs for your marine surveyor license business.

Society Of Accredited Marine Surveyors - Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors Certified study guide

COMMERCIAL VESSEL TEST

FREE SAMS HULL QUIZ

SAMS Test Day Checklist

✓Valid Photo ID
✓SAMS Candidate Number
✓Calculator (Non-Prog)
✓No Smart Devices
✓Arrive 30 Mins Early
✓Sharpened Pencils
✓Water Bottle
✓Review ABYC Notes

📄SAMS Practice Test Questions and Answers PDF

Ready to Pass the SAMS Exam?

Join thousands of surveyors who used our SAMS test prep to get accredited. Start studying now!

SAMS Renewal Requirements

🎓

CE Credits

60 Credits / 5 Yrs

💵

Fee

$400/Year

Keep your SAMS AMS status active by attending regional meetings and completing approved marine surveyor certification courses.

✅Pros

+Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
+Increases job market competitiveness
+Provides structured learning goals
+Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

❌Cons

−Study materials can be expensive
−Exam anxiety can affect performance
−Requires dedicated preparation time
−Retake fees apply if you don't pass

SAMS Questions and Answers

About the Author

Captain David HarringtonBS Marine Transportation, Master Mariner License, STCW

Master Mariner & Maritime Certification Specialist

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Captain David Harrington is a US Coast Guard licensed Master Mariner with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation from Massachusetts Maritime Academy. He has 22 years of deep-sea and coastal navigation experience aboard commercial vessels and specializes in preparing maritime candidates for USCG licensing exams, STCW certification, dynamic positioning (DPO), and officer-of-the-watch qualifications.

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