If you’re just graduating with your engineering degree, or you’ve been working in the field for a few years, you’ve probably heard of the Professional Engineering (PE) license. It gets tossed around in conversations with professors, supervisors, and colleagues—but what is it? Why does it matter in your career?
The answer is simple: a PE license can set you apart as a trusted, qualified professional. Let’s break down what it is, how to earn it, and why it matters for your future.
What is a PE License?
Professional engineers play a big part in protecting the public! So if you want to work on public projects or sign off on any engineer plans, you’ll need a professional engineer license. This makes sure that only the most qualified and ethical engineers can affect public health and safety.
Before becoming a licensed professional engineer, you’ll need to:
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering: This must be done at an EAC/ABET-accredited engineering program. Most bachelor’s programs are, but make sure to double check!
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam: This is a test measuring what you learned during your degree. It’s best taken right before or right after graduation.
- Complete At Least Four Years of Experience: You’ll need to work under a licensed PE for all four years. This ensures you have the on-job training for your own PE license.
- Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam: After your four years of on-the-job experience, you’ll take and pass this exam on your engineering speciality.
Earning a degree and passing the FE Exam are your first steps in getting a PE License! At BYU-Idaho, mechanical and civil engineering students take the FE Exam before they even graduate. Their courses and professors prepare them to pass with flying colors!
Why Do You Need a PE License?
If you want to open doors for opportunities beyond a degree, earning your professional engineer license is definitely worth it. With a PE license, you’ll be able to:
- Prove Your Authority: You’ll have the authority to prepare, sign, seal, and submit engineering drawings. You’ll also be qualified to testify as an expert witness in court.
- Advance Your Career: Working as a consultant, private practitioner, or lead engineer requires a PE license, but once you have one, you’ll be a lot more mobile in your career.
- Increase Your Salary: With a PE license, you’ll earn more on average than an engineer without one. Your expertise will be well rewarded.
- Work for the Public: If you want to design projects for the public, a PE license is a must. This’ll protect the public’s health and safety, and the credibility of all engineers.
- Find Job Security: Today, more and more companies are moving towards PE licenses. So starting on your PE license now can secure your job during downsizing and outsourcing.
PE License: A Role of Trust
Earning a PE license isn’t just about passing exams. It’s about stepping into a role of trust, responsibility, and leadership in engineering. If you want to open doors to better career opportunities, higher pay, and lasting credibility, start preparing for your PE license today!
Take that first step by scheduling your FE exam and setting your path toward becoming a professional engineer!
Sources:
NCEES: PE Exam
NCEES: Principles and Practices of Engineering (PE) Exam