What Is a Professional Engineer?

by Caroline Fritz

Overview

In the United States, a professional engineer (P.E.) is a registered or licensed engineer who is allowed to offer his professional services directly to the public and who is required to maintain a level of competency.
History

The first engineering licensing law was enacted in 1907 to protect the public. Today, every state regulates the engineering profession through licensing requirements.

Educational Requirements

Engineers must complete a four-year college degree, work under a P.E. for at least four years, pass two competency exams and earn a license from their state's licensing board.
Continuing Education

A P.E. must fulfill continuing educational requirements throughout her career to retain her license. These requirements are defined by the state in which she holds a license
Disciplines Represented

Engineering professions requiring the P.E. designation include civil, mechanical, electrical and structural engineering disciplines although some states issue generic P.E. licenses to civil engineers.
Scope of Work

Only licensed engineers are allowed to prepare, seal and submit engineering plans to a public authority for approval or submit engineering work for clients.