Why State Requirements Matter
While the FE exam itself is a national exam administered by NCEES with uniform content across all states, the eligibility requirements, application processes, and post-exam certification procedures are set by individual state licensing boards. These requirements can vary significantly from state to state, and understanding your state's specific rules is essential for a smooth licensure process.
Common Eligibility Requirements
Most states share similar baseline eligibility requirements for the FE exam, but the details differ:
Education Requirements
The most common education requirement is a bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program. However, variations exist:
- ABET-accredited degree required: Some states accept only degrees from ABET-accredited programs
- Non-ABET degrees accepted: Some states accept degrees from non-accredited programs with additional experience or coursework requirements
- Engineering technology degrees: Some states allow graduates of ABET-accredited engineering technology programs, sometimes with additional requirements
- International degrees: Acceptance of international engineering degrees varies, often requiring credential evaluation
- Senior-year students: Many states allow students within one or two semesters of graduation to take the exam
Experience Requirements for Exam Eligibility
Most states do not require professional experience to take the FE exam (experience is required for the PE exam, not the FE). However, a few states may require experience for candidates with non-accredited degrees or engineering technology degrees.
Application Process Variations
Direct NCEES Registration
Some states allow candidates to register for the FE exam directly through the NCEES website without a separate state board application. This streamlines the process and reduces the time from application to exam scheduling.
State Board Application Required
Other states require a separate application to the state licensing board before the candidate can register through NCEES. This application may include transcript submission, reference letters, and additional documentation. Processing times vary from a few days to several weeks.
Fees
The NCEES exam fee is the same regardless of state. However, state application fees vary from $0 to over $100. Some states include the state fee within the NCEES exam fee, while others charge separately. Check your state board's fee schedule for the complete cost.
Post-Exam Certification
After passing the FE exam, the process for obtaining EIT (Engineer in Training) or EI (Engineer Intern) certification varies by state:
- Automatic certification: Some states automatically issue EIT certification upon passing the FE exam
- Separate application required: Other states require a separate application for EIT certification after passing
- No formal EIT designation: A few states do not issue a formal EIT certificate but record your FE exam passage for PE exam eligibility purposes
Reciprocity and Comity
If you plan to practice engineering in multiple states, understanding reciprocity is important. Your FE exam results are recorded in the NCEES records system and can be transferred to any state when you apply for licensure there. However, each state may have different requirements for accepting your credentials.
NCEES provides a records transfer service that simplifies the process of applying for licensure in additional states. Your NCEES record includes your exam results, education, and experience documentation.
States with Notable Differences
While covering every state's requirements is beyond the scope of this guide, some states have notably different approaches:
- Some states have decoupled FE exam eligibility from education requirements, allowing anyone to take the exam
- Some states require specific coursework (such as surveying for civil engineers) beyond a general engineering degree
- Some states have tiered licensure systems with different levels of engineering certification
- Some states require continuing education for EIT renewal, while others do not have EIT renewal requirements
Finding Your State's Requirements
The most reliable source for your state's requirements is your state licensing board's website. NCEES also provides a directory of all state licensing boards with links to each board's website. When reviewing requirements, look for:
- Education eligibility criteria for the FE exam
- Application procedures and required documentation
- Application and exam fees
- Exam scheduling instructions
- Post-exam EIT certification procedures
- EIT maintenance or renewal requirements
- PE exam eligibility requirements (for future planning)
Planning Ahead
If you know which state you plan to work in long-term, register for the FE exam through that state's board. If you are unsure, register through the state where you currently reside or attend school. Your FE exam results are portable across states through the NCEES records system, so your choice of registration state does not limit your future options.
Start the application process early. Some states process applications quickly, while others take weeks. Do not let application processing delays push back your exam date. Submit your application well in advance of your planned study timeline.