2026 data Iowa board official source

Iowa Professional Engineer (PE) License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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

What the Iowa data shows for Professional Engineer (PE)s

Iowa's path to professional engineer (pe) licensure runs through board-approved instruction, 4 years of supervised work experience, and a passing score on FE Exam then PE Exam before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Iowa folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Engineering".

The initial price tag is $155, and renewal costs $136 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, professional engineer (pe)s should know: NCEES model law: recognized in most states.

Licensing Requirements in Iowa

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Engineering
Not specified
Exam Requirement
FE Exam then PE Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$155
Renewal Fee
$136
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Not Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
4 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Iowa licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Professional Engineer (PE) in Iowa?
Iowa's requirements cover, the FE Exam then PE Exam exam, and an initial fee of $155.
How do I get certified as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Iowa?
Iowa licenses professional engineer (pe)s who complete its requirements (4 years of experience) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Iowa licensing board.
Can I transfer my Professional Engineer (PE) license to Iowa from another state?
For professional engineer (pe)s, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: NCEES model law: recognized in most states. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Iowa licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Iowa require a background check for Professional Engineer (PE) licensing?
Iowa 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 Iowa?
To stay licensed as a professional engineer (pe) in Iowa, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $136.

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