Professional Engineer (PE) / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Professional Engineer (PE) License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Provides engineering services to the public. Requires FE + PE exams.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Professional Engineer (PE)s

To practice as a professional engineer (pe) in District of Columbia, the state licensing board requires board-approved training, a passing score on the FE Exam then PE Exam examination, and 4 years of supervised work experience. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under District of Columbia's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Bachelors Degree in Engineering".

Upfront cost is $319, with renewal running $261 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: NCEES model law: recognized in most states. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Engineering
Not specified
Exam Requirement
FE Exam then PE Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$319
Renewal Fee
$261
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Not Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years

License Reciprocity

NCEES model law: recognized in most states

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with District of Columbia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Professional Engineer (PE) in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires, passing an exam (FE Exam then PE Exam), and an initial fee of $319.
How do I get certified as a Professional Engineer (PE) in District of Columbia?
To become a licensed professional engineer (pe) in District of Columbia, you must meet the state's requirements and 4 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the District of Columbia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Professional Engineer (PE) license to District of Columbia from another state?
District of Columbia has reciprocity provisions: NCEES model law: recognized in most states. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the District of Columbia licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Professional Engineer (PE) licensing?
District of Columbia does not currently require a criminal background check for professional engineer (pe) licensing, though this may vary by employer or specific role.
What are the continuing education requirements for Professional Engineer (PE) in District of Columbia?
Licensed professional engineer (pe)s in District of Columbia must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $261.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

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