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.
