PE License Requirements by State

How to get a PE license (the 4 steps, in order)

The path to a Professional Engineer license is the same four steps in every U.S. jurisdiction, in this order: (1) earn an ABET-accredited engineering degree; (2) pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, usually near graduation; (3) complete supervised engineering experience — four years is typical, though the exact requirement varies by state; and (4) pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam in your discipline, then apply to your state board. States differ in how they count experience, accept degrees, and handle exam order, so always confirm with your board.

See the step-by-step guide for a high-population state to compare: how to get a PE license in California , Texas , or Florida .

Can you get a PE license without an engineering degree?

In some states, yes. Boards that allow it substitute additional supervised experience for the ABET-accredited degree — often called an education waiver or experience substitution — typically requiring substantially more years of qualifying engineering work (commonly 8–12) plus the same FE and PE exams. This path is not available everywhere and the exact terms vary widely, so check your specific state's rules in the state-by-state requirements below.

Does a PE license transfer between states?

No — there is no automatic transfer. Instead, most states offer licensure by comity (also called reciprocity): if your existing license and qualifications meet the new state's standards, you apply for a separate license there. An NCEES Record — a verified file of your education, exams, and experience — streamlines the process across states. Read the complete PE license reciprocity by state guide and the practical NCEES Record guide before starting a comity application. To confirm an existing license before applying, use the license lookup and verification tool .

Renewal, expiration, and continuing education

A PE license does expire. Most states renew on a one- or two-year cycle and require continuing education — professional development hours (PDHs) — to renew. Letting a license lapse also lapses the authority to seal work. A few concrete examples:

• Alabama: 15 PDH per year
• Alaska: 24 PDH per 2 years
• Arizona: None required

Renewal and CE rules are set by each board — find your state's board contacts and register in the state license lookup .