FE Exam Requirements: Eligibility, Registration & Path to PE License
Everything you need to know about who can take the FE exam, how to register, choosing your discipline, and the path from EIT to Professional Engineer.
The key point about FE eligibility
NCEES allows anyone to take the FE exam. There is no degree requirement imposed by NCEES itself. However, your state licensing board sets its own eligibility rules for who can sit for the exam, and most states require enrollment in or completion of an ABET-accredited engineering program.
The FE exam is the first step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Passing the FE earns you the EIT (Engineer in Training) designation, which is required before you can eventually take the PE exam. We are not affiliated with NCEES.
The typical path to PE licensure
Engineering Degree
Complete an ABET-accredited engineering degree program. Most PE licensure paths require this. Typically 4 years for a bachelor's degree.
Pass the FE Exam
110 questions, 6-hour appointment window, computer-based test at Pearson VUE. Earns you the EIT designation. $175 exam fee.
Gain Engineering Experience
Work under a licensed PE for typically 4 years (varies by state). This hands-on experience is required before you can take the PE exam.
Pass the PE Exam & Get Licensed
The PE exam tests advanced, discipline-specific engineering knowledge. Passing it earns your Professional Engineer license.
Who is eligible to take the FE exam?
NCEES does not impose a specific degree requirement to sit for the FE exam. In practice, however, most candidates fall into one of these categories:
Engineering students in their final year
This is the most common time to take the FE. The material is fresh, and many programs encourage (or require) students to sit for the exam before graduation.
Recent engineering graduates
If you did not take the FE during school, the sooner you take it after graduation, the better. Pass rates are highest within the first year after completing your degree.
Working engineers who need their PE
Some engineers decide to pursue PE licensure years after graduation. You can still take the FE, but plan for additional study time to relearn material that has faded.
Candidates without an engineering degree
In some states, you may be eligible to take the FE with a related science or technology degree, or with sufficient engineering work experience. Check your state board's specific requirements.
Important: Always verify your eligibility with your specific state licensing board. Requirements vary by state, and your state board has the final say on who can sit for the exam in that jurisdiction.
Choosing your FE exam discipline
The FE exam is offered in 7 discipline-specific versions. You choose which one to take when you register. Most candidates choose the discipline that matches their undergraduate major, but you are free to choose any discipline regardless of your degree.
FE Civil
Structural analysis, geotechnical, transportation, water resources, environmental, construction, surveying.
FE Mechanical
Mechanical design, thermal and fluid systems, HVAC, materials, dynamics, vibrations, controls.
FE Electrical and Computer
Circuit analysis, electronics, signal processing, computer systems, power, electromagnetics, controls.
FE Chemical
Mass and energy balances, thermodynamics, kinetics, transport phenomena, process design, safety.
FE Environmental
Water and wastewater, air quality, solid and hazardous waste, environmental science, sustainability.
FE Industrial and Systems
Operations research, quality, ergonomics, manufacturing, engineering economics, probability and statistics.
FE Other Disciplines
Broad coverage across multiple engineering fields. Popular choice for candidates whose major does not align with a specific discipline exam.
Registration process
The FE exam registration process involves three steps:
Apply through your state board
Submit your application to your state's licensing board. Requirements and fees vary by state. Some states require transcripts and proof of enrollment or graduation from an ABET-accredited program.
Register with NCEES
Once your state board approves your application, create an account on ncees.org and register for the FE exam. The exam fee is $175 paid to NCEES. Choose your discipline at this step.
Schedule at Pearson VUE
After NCEES registration, schedule your exam appointment at a Pearson VUE testing center. The FE is offered year-round. Choose a date that gives you enough time to prepare (most candidates need 2 to 3 months of study).
Timeline overview
| Step | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Degree | 4 years | ABET-accredited bachelor's program recommended |
| FE Exam Preparation | 2 to 3 months | 100 to 200 hours of focused study |
| FE Exam | 1 day | 110 questions, 6-hour window, Pearson VUE center |
| Engineering Work Experience | 4 years (typical) | Work under a licensed PE; varies by state |
| PE Exam | 1 day | Discipline-specific, advanced engineering exam |
| Total (college to PE license) | 8 to 9 years | From start of bachelor's degree to PE licensure |
After passing the FE exam
Once you pass the FE exam, you earn the EIT (Engineer in Training) designation, also called EI (Engineer Intern) in some states. This is an official credential that signals you have passed the first milestone on the path to PE licensure.
In most states, the FE certification does not expire and does not require renewal or continuing education. You hold the EIT designation indefinitely while you accumulate the required years of engineering experience before taking the PE exam. A few states have specific rules about EIT expiration, so check with your state board.
The EIT designation is valuable on its own. It demonstrates foundational engineering competence to employers and is often listed as a preferred or required qualification in engineering job postings, even for positions that do not require a PE license.
Common Questions
Do I need a degree to take the FE exam?
NCEES does not require a degree to sit for the FE exam. However, your state board may have its own eligibility requirements. Most candidates are engineering students in their final year or recent graduates. Some states require enrollment in or completion of an ABET-accredited engineering program. Check with your state board for specific requirements.
How much does the FE exam cost?
The FE exam fee is $175, paid to NCEES when you register. Some states may charge an additional application or administration fee. You will also need to budget for study materials. If you need to retake the exam, you must pay the full $175 fee again for each attempt.
How do I register for the FE exam?
First, create an account on the NCEES website (ncees.org). Then apply through your state licensing board. Once approved, you can register for the exam through NCEES and schedule your appointment at a Pearson VUE testing center. The process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from application to scheduling.
Which FE exam discipline should I choose?
Choose the discipline that most closely matches your undergraduate major. If your major does not align with one of the six specific discipline exams (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical and Computer, Chemical, Environmental, or Industrial and Systems), the FE Other Disciplines exam is a good option. You do not have to choose the discipline that matches your degree.
Does the FE certification expire?
In most states, the FE certification does not expire and does not require renewal or continuing education. Once you pass the FE exam, you hold the EIT (Engineer in Training) designation indefinitely in most jurisdictions. However, a few states have specific rules, so verify with your state board.
Can I take the FE exam if I graduated years ago?
Yes. There is no time limit on when you can take the FE exam relative to your graduation date. However, the longer you wait, the more material you will need to relearn. Candidates who take the FE within a year of graduation have significantly higher pass rates. If you have been out of school for several years, plan for additional study time.
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