FE Exam vs PE Exam: Understanding the Differences
The path to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) involves two major exams: the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. While they are both part of the same professional licensing journey, they serve different purposes and have significant differences in format, content, and requirements.
Purpose and Timing
The FE exam is typically the first exam taken on the path to PE licensure. Most candidates take it during their senior year of college or shortly after graduation. Passing the FE exam earns you the title of Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT), depending on your state.
The PE exam comes later, after you have accumulated the required years of professional engineering experience (typically 4 years under a licensed PE). Passing the PE exam qualifies you for full PE licensure, which allows you to stamp and seal engineering documents, offer services to the public, and take legal responsibility for engineering work.
Exam Format Comparison
- FE Exam: 110 multiple-choice questions, 5 hours 20 minutes, computer-based, year-round availability
- PE Exam: Varies by discipline; typically 80 questions, 8 hours (morning and afternoon sessions), computer-based, offered during specific testing windows
Content and Difficulty
The FE exam tests broad, fundamental engineering knowledge at a level consistent with an undergraduate education. Questions cover basic engineering concepts, mathematics, and general engineering principles. The exam is designed to verify that you have the foundational knowledge expected of someone entering the engineering profession.
The PE exam tests advanced, specialized engineering knowledge at a level consistent with several years of professional practice. Questions are more complex, involve more realistic engineering scenarios, and require deeper judgment and analysis. The PE exam assumes you not only know the fundamentals but can apply them in professional practice situations.
Eligibility Requirements
FE exam eligibility requirements are relatively straightforward:
- You must have completed (or be near completing) a bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, or
- In some states, you may qualify with an engineering technology degree or equivalent education and experience
- No professional experience is required
PE exam eligibility is more stringent:
- You must have passed the FE exam
- You must have completed the required years of progressive engineering experience (typically 4 years, though this varies by state)
- Your experience must be verified by licensed Professional Engineers
- Additional education requirements may apply in some states
Reference Materials
During the FE exam, you have access to the NCEES Reference Handbook, a standard reference provided to all examinees. You cannot bring your own materials.
The PE exam also provides the NCEES Reference Handbook, but some PE disciplines allow you to bring additional reference materials. The specific rules vary by discipline and have changed over time as the PE exam has transitioned to computer-based testing, so check the current NCEES guidelines for your discipline.
Cost Comparison
- FE Exam: Approximately $175 (plus any state application fees)
- PE Exam: Approximately $375 (plus any state application fees, which can be significant)
Pass Rates
First-time FE exam pass rates generally range from 60 to 75 percent across disciplines. First-time PE exam pass rates are typically lower, ranging from 50 to 70 percent, reflecting the higher difficulty level and more specialized content.
Retake Policies
Both exams allow retakes, but with limitations:
- FE Exam: Up to three attempts per 12-month period
- PE Exam: Retake policies vary by state; some limit the number of attempts, while others allow unlimited retakes with waiting periods
Career Impact
Passing the FE exam is an important credential for early-career engineers. It demonstrates competence and is required in most states as the first step toward PE licensure. Having the EIT/EI designation shows employers that you are on the path to professional licensure.
The PE license carries much greater professional significance. It is required by law for engineers who offer services directly to the public, who are in responsible charge of engineering projects, or who want to stamp and seal engineering documents. In many industries and government roles, having a PE license opens doors to career advancement and higher compensation.
Which Should You Focus On First?
Always take the FE exam first, ideally while you are still in school or shortly after graduation, when the material is fresh. Waiting years to take the FE exam makes it significantly harder because you have to relearn material you have not used since college. Once you pass the FE exam, focus on gaining professional experience, and plan for the PE exam when you approach your state's experience requirement.
Both exams are important milestones in your engineering career. Start with the FE exam, build your experience, and advance to the PE exam when the time is right.