Becoming a professional engineer means you are held to a high ethical standard and are dedicated to protecting the health, safety and welfare of the public. Because of the prestige that comes with the PE title, there are many requirements you must complete. If you want to become a professional engineer, follow these steps:
A four-year bachelor’s degree in an EAC/ABET-accredited engineering program must be obtained. A TAC/ABET-accredited engineering technology programs of four or more years is acceptable also if six years of full-time experience, including two years of engineering design, is completed. This degree can be obtained from any college or university with an accredited engineering program.
New Jersey requires candidates to complete four years of specific full-time engineering experience. It is important to note that part-time and some intern work doesn’t count toward your eligibility. These four years of full-time experience also must be completed under the supervision of an already licensed professional engineer.
You cannot just sign up and show up to take and engineering exam. All first-time applicants must submit an application directly to the New Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors for eligibility determination. Click here for a thorough overview of what you need for the application, where to find the application, and how to ensure you complete the application correctly.
You must sit for and pass the Fundamental of Engineering exam as well as the Principles and Practices of Engineering exam. Click here if you’re looking for tips to prepare for the exams or here if you want to learn everything you need to know about the PE exam. You may also retake the exam if you fail the first time. However, you will be required to pay an additional exam fee.
Want to learn more about how to become a professional engineer? Check out our blog, which is full of helpful resources for New Jersey engineers at any stage in their career.
If you are just beginning your journey as a professional engineer, you may be surprised to learn you are required to obtain continuing education credits to maintain your license. Some people may see this as a nuisance and wonder why they need to continue educating themselves after going through the formal education system. Why is this continuing education process necessary?
The answer is simple. The engineering industry is always changing. Therefore, engineering professionals must adapt to new technologies, developments, skills, and regulations within their fields in real-time. Staying current on your industry is a must. You would not hire a lawyer that wasn’t up to speed on the newest legislature and laws. As an engineer, it is crucial to be aware of the ever changing landscape of your job. That is why continuing education is mandated across the field.
In the State of New Jersey, licensed engineers are required to complete 24 hours of continuing professional education every two years. The renewal years are all even numbered years. For example, 2020 is a renewal year. Professional organizations and associations, such as NJSPE, understand the value and importance of earning these credits. These organizations often offer many opportunities for engineers to fulfill this requirement at their convenience. The point of continuing education is not to be burdensome. It is meant to enhance the skills and knowledge of each engineer, which helps to advance the entire industry as a result. This is an ideal that rests at the core of NJSPE.
Luckily for New Jersey engineers, we can provide most of your CE credits in just a few sessions. We currently have a November in-person class, March in-person class, and online ethics class. NJSPE also offers its members discounts on webinars and courses we offer. As a member, you also get access to the continuing education credits available through our national chapter.
Interested in becoming a member? Click here to get started.
