| NCEES USCIEP EngineeringLicense CouncilNet December 14, 2005 (Clemson, SC) |
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 Summary — Learn why and how engineers get licensed:
Engineering licensure - what is it? One of the most important decisions you can make early in your engineering career is to place yourself on a professional course and become licensed as a professional engineer (P.E.). The profession regulates itself by setting high standards for professional engineers, and by law, many jurisdictions require engineers to be licensed in order to practice. These requirements and high standards help protect the public's safety and welfare. Licensure is the mark of a professional. It demonstrates accomplishment of the high standards of professionalism to which the engineering profession subscribes. Consider the following: Licensure…
How do I get licensed? Each state and territory varies slightly, but in general, there is a four-step process required to obtain engineering licensure (see below).
After completing all the steps in the engineering licensure process—education, experience, and examinations—you are eligible for licensure by your licensing board. Once you are granted licensure, you may use the distinguished designation "professional engineer," or P.E. For more information, contact the appropriate jurisdiction licensing board. Are there any special requirements for foreign applicants? If you obtained your education outside the United States, please contact the appropriate licensing board for any special requirements, in addition to steps listed above. You may be instructed to have your education credentials evaluated by ECEI, AACRAO, Span Tran, Foreign Credentials Service of America, or another evaluation service of their choosing. Explanatory note: In the United States, a license is required before an engineer may practice before the public. The licensure of engineers is the responsibility of each individual state and territory, rather than the federal government. Engineers who wish to obtain their license to practice must apply to the licensing board in the state or territory in which they plan to practice. In order to become licensed, the engineer must meet the requirements of that licensing board with respect to education and experience and by taking and passing licensing examinations. Why bother with licensure? Think about it. Your career could last 40 years or more. One never knows how a career path will change, especially in today's marketplace. Consider the following situations that you are likely to encounter in a career spanning a lifetime:
In all of the above cases, licensure is a designation that sets you apart from other engineers, enhances your career potential, and frees you to make important career decisions such as starting your own business or consulting. (Only licensed professionals are allowed to offer their services to the public and sign and seal plans for the public.) Regardless of the career path you choose to take, consider that what is standard and accepted today in the engineering field may not be the same in the future. While today various practice niches have been granted exemption from licensure, these exemptions vary among jurisdictions, and there is no guarantee that these exemptions are permanent. In fact, many jurisdictions are actively working to eliminate some exemptions. Licensure is a sign of commitment to your profession. Obtaining a professional license enhances your potential for salary increases and promotions. Make your decision today and follow the path to licensure. This path will lead you to higher wages, a wider range of career opportunities, and a higher level of respect and credibility among your engineering peers. |
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