A Professional Engineer (PE) license is a government-issued authority to practice engineering. It indicates that a professional has met requirements in education, experience, and examinations, ensuring they practice in a way that protects public health, safety, and welfare. Attaining this license grants an engineer the legal authority to sign and seal engineering plans and offer their services directly to the public. This guide provides a pathway for navigating the multi-step process toward achieving this credential.
Meet the Educational Requirements
The journey to a PE license begins with a solid educational foundation. For most candidates, this means earning a four-year bachelor’s degree in engineering from a program accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET. ABET accreditation is the benchmark for U.S. licensure, ensuring that college and university programs meet the quality standards of the profession.
State licensing boards generally see an EAC/ABET-accredited degree as the most direct route to eligibility. Some states offer alternative paths for individuals with degrees from non-accredited engineering programs or related science fields. These pathways, however, often require applicants to demonstrate that their education is substantially equivalent and may necessitate additional years of work experience.
Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam
After satisfying the educational standards, the next step is to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. This comprehensive, computer-based test is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). It is designed to assess the technical knowledge gained during an undergraduate engineering education.
The ideal time to take the FE exam is during the final year of an accredited engineering degree program or shortly after graduation, as the foundational concepts are still fresh. Students can often find guidance and review resources through their university programs to prepare for the examination.
Upon passing, a candidate can apply for certification as an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI). This certification formally documents the completion of the initial examination and signals to employers that you are committed to the licensure track.
Gain Qualifying Work Experience
With EIT or EI certification in hand, the focus shifts to obtaining the necessary professional experience. Most state boards mandate a period of at least four years of progressive engineering experience. This work must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer. The PE supervisor plays a role in mentoring the EIT and validating the quality and nature of the work performed.
The term “progressive experience” signifies that the work should increase in difficulty and responsibility over time, involving the application of engineering principles and the development of technical skills and professional judgment. Candidates must keep detailed records of their projects, tasks, and the engineering challenges they faced. This documentation must be formally verified by the supervising PE, as it serves as the primary evidence to the licensing board that the candidate has developed the practical competency required for independent practice.
Complete the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam
After accumulating the required work experience, candidates are eligible to take the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. Administered by NCEES, this exam gauges a candidate’s competence to practice engineering independently within a specific field.
Unlike the broad-based FE exam, the PE exam is discipline-specific. Candidates choose an exam that aligns with their area of expertise, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. The questions reflect real-world practice, requiring candidates to apply both academic knowledge and practical experience.
Finalize Your State Application
Once all examination and experience requirements are met, the final step is to submit a formal application to the engineering licensure board in the state where you wish to practice. Each state has its own board and specific requirements, so it is important to consult the official board website for detailed instructions and forms. The application package is a comprehensive portfolio that documents your journey.
A typical application includes:
- The official application form
- Certified academic transcripts
- Official verification of passing scores for both the FE and PE exams from NCEES
- A detailed summary of your qualifying work experience, corroborated by references from your supervising PEs
Some jurisdictions have additional requirements, such as a separate state-specific ethics and laws examination. After a review and approval of the complete application package, the board will grant the Professional Engineer license.
Maintain Your License
Earning a PE license is not a one-time achievement; it is a commitment to lifelong learning. To keep the license active, engineers must adhere to the maintenance requirements set by their state board. This ensures that professionals remain current with technical advancements, changing regulations, and ethical standards.
The most common requirement for license renewal is continuing education. Engineers must complete a specific number of Professional Development Hours (PDHs) during each renewal period, which is often annual or biennial. These hours can be earned through activities like attending seminars or taking university courses.
The process involves submitting a renewal application and fee to the state board, along with certification that the continuing education requirements have been met. Failure to renew an active license can result in it becoming inactive, prohibiting the individual from legally practicing engineering.