Guide to FE and PE engineering exams

Engineering licensure in the U.S. follows a structured, fairly straightforward path, but becoming an engineer involves more than just checking off requirements. Full certification begins with earning a bachelor’s degree in an accredited engineering program, followed by passing a preliminary exam, gaining relevant work experience, and completing a final, specialized assessment. Each stage demands significant time, dedication, and determination, as licensure requires years of rigorous training and evaluation.

Central to becoming an engineer are the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams, both administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The FE exam establishes a foundation by testing students and early-career professionals on the engineering concepts and principles needed to fulfill engineering responsibilities safely and effectively. The PE exam, on the other hand, allows qualified individuals to progress in their careers and practice as licensed professional engineers in their chosen specialties.

Both the FE and PE exams are critical milestones that present unique challenges and require careful planning and thorough preparation. With a clear understanding of the steps to professional licensure, candidates can approach each requirement with assuredness and commitment.

Engineer licensing timeline

To become a professional engineer (PE) and advance your career, it’s important to review the typical timeline engineering candidates follow when pursuing the certification. Earning this title grants you the authority to sign and seal documents, take legal responsibility for engineering projects, and lead teams.

Here’s a breakdown of how to become an engineer, highlighting every key achievement in the process:

• Education (four years): Start the process by earning a four-year bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program. Depending on your state, you may major in engineering or a closely related field such as mathematics or chemistry.
• First exam (two to three months): Study for and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam in your discipline (such as Civil or Mechanical Engineering).
• Work experience (four years): Accumulate four years of progressive engineering work experience under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer. This stage forms the practical component of the standard engineering track.
• Second exam (three to six months): Successfully prepare for and pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, which is required to achieve full professional standing as an engineer.

Altogether, candidates often spend between eight and ten years attaining full PE licensure, including obtaining their engineering degree and fulfilling both professional assessments. Of course, the timeline can vary based on individual study schedules, exam preparation, and the pace at which required experience is obtained.

What is the FE exam?

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is designed for students nearing completion of an undergraduate engineering degree or a closely related field, as well as recent graduates. The exam serves as a crucial step toward professional certification for engineers in the U.S.

Key details about the FE exam:

• Administration: This is a computer-based exam administered at NCEES-approved Pearson test centers.
• Schedule: The FE exam is available year-round, though exam sessions are restricted to four quarterly testing windows (e.g., January-March, April-June), with a limited number of test dates in each period.
• Cost: A $225 exam fee is payable directly to NCEES at the time of registration.
• Number of questions: The FE exam consists of 110 multiple-choice questions covering a broad range of engineering fundamentals.
• Length of exam: Candidates have approximately six hours to complete the entire assessment, including a scheduled break.
• Calculator policy: Examinees may use calculators only if they comply with guidelines: only specific models are allowed.
• Open-book policy: While open books or external notes are not allowed, candidates are provided access to the official, exam-specific FE Reference Handbook for use throughout the test.
• Remote exam options: No remote or at-home testing is currently available for the FE exam; all testing must be conducted in person at authorized centers.

As the foundation of the engineering licensure process, the FE exam is the initial threshold aspiring engineers must cross. To obtain full engineering-in-training status, candidates must also meet established education and work experience requirements as they progress toward earning their PE license.

FE exam questions

FE exam questions are highly practical, often reflecting real-world engineering scenarios and problem-solving. The range of FE exam questions spans curriculum areas such as mathematics, physical sciences, statistics, economics, materials science, process design, and safety, as well as professional standards. You can expect FE exam questions that challenge you to analyze situations like the effect of an incline and friction on the movement of an object, or the degree to which a pipe is compressed under various loads. Many FE exam questions feature diagrams to visually present the engineering problems being tested.

Approximately half of the FE exam questions focus on broad general engineering knowledge, while the remaining questions address specialized topics such as chemical reaction engineering, computer systems, waste management, and hydrology. Although the specific subjects covered by FE exam questions will vary by discipline, topics such as calculus, physics, geometry, and other foundational math and science principles are consistently tested across all versions. To ensure you are preparing for the correct exam and content, always review your state’s official FE exam requirements to confirm what your jurisdiction’s engineering board requires during the licensure process.

Types of FE exams

FE exam candidates can choose from seven primary types of FE exams, each tailored to evaluate essential engineering principles within specific disciplines:

• FE Chemical
• FE Civil
• FE Electrical & Computer
• FE Environmental
• FE Industrial & Systems
• FE Mechanical
• FE Other Disciplines

Each exam is crafted to measure your core understanding in its corresponding field. The FE Other Disciplines exam is the broadest, emphasizing general engineering fundamentals, including probability, chemistry, instrumentation, statics, fluid mechanics, and introductory electrical engineering.

How are FE exams scored?

All FE exams are evaluated using a consistent scoring method: out of the 110 total questions, 100 contribute to your final score, while the remaining 10 are used for pretesting and do not affect your results. Results are determined by how many correct answers you select, as there are no penalties for incorrect responses. After grading, raw scores are converted to scaled scores that account for slight variations in difficulty across exam versions.

There is no fixed passing score or universal passing threshold for any FE exam. Instead, the passing score is set after each exam cycle, taking into account both the exam's difficulty and overall candidate performance. While the average FE exam pass rate typically falls between 65% and 70% for all exam disciplines, the actual score you need can vary and cannot be predicted in advance. The most effective approach is to strive for as many correct answers as possible and aim for a high score.

What is the PE exam?

Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams are longer, more detailed, and more demanding than the FE exams, which test a minimum level of competency for professionals in a particular engineering field. It is designed for engineers with at least four years of post-college work experience in their chosen area of practice.

Some general details about PE exams include:

• Administration: Also an entirely computer-based exam.
• Schedule: Administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson test centers, in the same testing windows as the FE exam.
• Cost: $400 (in most cases).
• Number of questions: 80 multiple-choice questions.
• Length of exam: Approximately 9.5 hours long.
• Calculator policy: Calculators are allowed, provided they are NCEES-approved models.
• Open-book policy: Candidates are allowed access to a searchable, digital NCEES PE Reference Handbook, but are not permitted to bring their own notes.
• Remote exam options: None are currently available.

As you’ll see below, the topics offered by the PE exam are much more in-depth than those of the FE exam, covering environmental, metallurgical, and materials engineering.

The PE Structural (SE) exam

The one major exception to the PE exam specifications outlined above is the PE Exam Structural, a newly updated, comprehensive assessment designed for structural engineers. The PE Exam Structural is uniquely organized into four parts: vertical breadth, lateral breadth, vertical depth, and lateral depth. Specifically created for professionals aiming to design buildings, bridges, and major infrastructure projects, particularly in higher-risk areas, the PE Exam Structural evaluates both broad foundational knowledge and specialized expertise.

The depth modules for the PE Exam Structural are offered only during certain test windows and are not available year-round, requiring strategic planning by candidates. Each part costs $350, includes either 55 breadth or 60 depth questions, and is administered over approximately six hours.

Please note that the PE Exam Structural is not accepted in all licensing jurisdictions. Before scheduling your exam, verify your state’s structural PE requirements to ensure this pathway aligns with your civil or structural engineering licensing goals.

PE exam questions

PE exam outlines and questions are much more specific than those for the FE exam, focusing on the techniques, materials, and methods used in each discipline. While math, science, and engineering principles provide the theoretical foundation for every exam, the questions are meant to pinpoint the exact knowledge areas tested in the engineering discipline. As with the FE exam, questions will often be accompanied by diagrams, formulas, and equations, and will require multiple steps to find the answer.

Types of PE exams

PE exams are a critical step for engineers seeking to validate their advanced knowledge and expertise in a specific domain. Unlike the FE, the PE exam allows licensed engineers to demonstrate competency in over 20 specialized fields, including:

• Agricultural and Biological Engineering
• Architectural Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering (featuring separate PE exams for Construction, Geotechnical, Structural, Transportation, and Water Resources and Environmental disciplines)
• Control Systems Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (options include Computer Engineering; Electronics, Controls, and Communications; and Power)
• Environmental Engineering
• Fire Protection Engineering
• Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering (with distinct PE exams for HVAC and Refrigeration, Machine Design and Materials, and Thermal and Fluid Systems)
• Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
• Mining and Mineral Processing Engineering
• Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Structural Engineering

While FE exams cover a broad range of general engineering concepts and offer greater flexibility, the PE exams require candidates to choose a specific field that aligns with their career goals. A solid academic and practical foundation in the chosen discipline is vital, and selecting the right path early ensures engineers are equipped to meet the rigorous standards required for professional licensure.

How are PE exams scored?

PE exam scoring methods closely resemble those used for FE exams. For both tests, results are determined entirely by the number of correct PE exam questions answered, with no deductions for incorrect responses. Every raw score on the PE exam is converted into a scaled score that adjusts for subtle variations in exam difficulty between test forms.

Again, the PE exam passing score is not predefined; instead, it is determined for each administration. As a result, aspiring engineers should focus on answering as many PE exam questions correctly as possible to maximize their overall chances of passing.

FE and PE exam pass rates

FE and PE civil exams are long, challenging exams with pass rates that tend to hover around 60% to 70% for first-time candidates, according to NCEES reporting.

FE exam pass rates (2024)

The latest FE exam pass rate data provides insight into both the number of candidates who sat for each test and passing percentages for first-time and repeat examinees:

The FE Civil exam recorded the lowest FE exam pass rate among first-time test-takers and continued to attract one of the largest pools of participants. Exams with fewer candidates, often representing more niche or selective disciplines, had notably higher FE exam pass rates, except for the FE Other Disciplines exam.

PE exam pass rates (2024)

2024 PE exam pass rates highlight a wide variation in both the percentage of passing scores and the number of candidates attempting each test:

Some professional engineering exams reveal just how specialized certain disciplines are. For example, only 19 candidates sat for the PE Agricultural and Biological Engineering exam in 2024, yet this group achieved an impressive 89% pass rate. Meanwhile, thousands of examinees take the PE Civil exams annually, with average pass rates hovering near 60%.

Published data for updated PE Structural exams is not yet available, as these exams are undergoing format changes this year.

NCEES calculator policy

You’ll notice that all NCEES exams follow a strict calculator policy, ensuring fairness and consistency across tests. According to the most up-to-date rules, only select approved calculator models are permitted during engineering exams:

• Casio fx-115 or fx-991
• Hewlett-Packard HP 33s or HP 35s
• Texas Instruments TI-30X and TI-36X models

A basic on-screen calculator will be provided during your test; however, under the NCEES calculator policy, you must bring your own approved device, as the testing center does not supply physical calculators. Familiarizing yourself with NCEES testing policies will help you avoid last-minute issues and stay focused for these demanding exams.

Which engineering test is right for me?

Deciding which engineering path to take starts with identifying your ultimate career goals and interests. Whether you want to become a civil, mechanical, electrical, or structural engineer, a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and physical sciences, and critical thinking skills is non-negotiable. Every discipline offers unique rewards and challenges, but becoming a successful engineer begins with exploring these core subjects.

When choosing the right engineering exam and career trajectory, consider the following recommendations:

• If you are a student considering becoming an engineer, start by enrolling in general engineering courses and exploring which fields interest you most. Once you’ve identified a preferred specialty, customize your course schedule to focus on that specific branch of engineering.
  • Many engineers supplement their education by pursuing a master’s or PhD in their field of choice, which can also open more career opportunities down the line.
• If available FE exams do not align with your chosen niche, the Other Disciplines test can serve as a robust starting point for those interested in a less traditional specialty, opening doors to diverse engineering career options.
• After passing the FE, aspiring engineers have four years to complete the required work experience. Use this period first to broaden your exposure and then pinpoint your ideal specialty. Focus on working in your desired field at least for a year so that when you’re ready for the PE exam, you’ll have practical experience directly related to that area.
• Consider critical factors such as average salary, projected job growth, and industry competition. Evaluate where the highest-paying positions intersect with your personal interests and abilities, since highly lucrative roles can also be fiercely competitive.

Gaining exposure through courses, internships, or entry-level roles is key when choosing your specialty. Reflect on the type of engineering work that excites you: if designing infrastructure for public agencies appeals to you, civil and structural engineering might be the best fit. If working with advanced machinery or electrical systems appeals to you, mechanical or electrical engineering could be the best route. The demand for engineers spans vital sectors like energy, healthcare, and technology, so there is no shortage of options. No matter which path you take on your way to becoming an engineer, you’ll be preparing for a rewarding and prosperous career.

Conclusion

To sum up the major similarities and differences in the FE vs. PE exam comparison:

• Both the FE and PE exams are administered by the NCEES.
• Each exam permits the use of the NCEES Reference Handbook, specifically created for its respective test.
• Both exams are conducted on a computer at Pearson VUE testing centers.
• Both the FE and PE exams are critical requirements for full Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in the U.S.
• The FE exam is typically taken either soon after graduating from college or during the final year of a four-year engineering program.
• The PE exam is the final step toward licensure, completed after graduating from college, successfully passing the FE exam, and gaining the required professional experience.
• The FE exam covers one of seven broad engineering domains, while the PE exam evaluates expertise across more than 20 specialized engineering disciplines.

Both the FE and PE exams require significant dedication from engineering candidates and represent crucial steps on the journey to becoming a licensed professional. Achieving certification involves years of education, hands-on experience, and many months of diligent preparation. Though the full path to licensure can sometimes take close to a decade, earning your certification opens doors to advanced career opportunities and influential leadership roles within the engineering field. Especially in competitive or highly specialized areas, pursuing both the FE and PE exams can be a transformative investment, empowering you to take on challenging projects, drive innovation, and shape outcomes that benefit communities and industries alike.