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Fundamentals of Engineering
Exam Resources

Passing the industrial engineering fundamentals of engineering (FE) exam is the first step to becoming a licensed professional engineer. Here are some resources to help you decide if pursuing a P.E. license is right for you and to help you study for the FE.

“[Engineering] licensure is crucial for career advancement and top pay.”

–U.S.News & World Report

Only a P.E. can practice engineering. This includes:

  • Owning a firm

  • Consulting

  • Signing/sealing a design

  • Bidding for public money

  • Advertising your services

  • Calling yourself a professional engineer

Benefits

  • It opens career doors.

  • In a stack of resumes, yours stands out.

  • You belong to a licensed profession.

  • You serve the public–not just your employer.

  • You typically earn more than peers without a P.E.

A professional engineer

  • Has the education, experience, and technical knowledge to lead

  • Has an obligation to safeguard the public

License vs. Certifications​

  • Only a P.E. license is regulated by the state, ensuring competency and ethical behavior

  • Certifications are granted with no regulatory oversite

  • Anyone can apply, including non-engineers

Process to obtain a P.E. license

  1. Engineering degree from an EAC/ABET accredited program

  2. Pass the FE exam in your senior year of college (or shortly after graduation)

  3. Work under a P.E. for four years or have a P.E. attest to your work

  4. Keep track of all experience in a supplemental experience record

  5. Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam

Obtaining a P.E. is tough––for a reason. The FE exam is generally easier to pass than the PE exam. 

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