2026 data Pennsylvania board official source

Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania data shows for Professional Engineer (PE)s

Pennsylvania'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. Pennsylvania folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Engineering".

Budget $316 to get started, plus $259 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 30 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in Pennsylvania

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Engineering
Not specified
Exam Requirement
FE Exam then PE Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$316
Renewal Fee
$259
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 Pennsylvania licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the license path calls for, a passing score on FE Exam then PE Exam, and a $316 initial fee.
How do I get certified as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania?
Certification as a professional engineer (pe) in Pennsylvania means clearing the state's checklist plus 4 years of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Professional Engineer (PE) license to Pennsylvania from another state?
Reciprocity for professional engineer (pe)s nationally works like this: NCEES model law: recognized in most states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Pennsylvania. Verify the specifics with the Pennsylvania licensing board.
Does Pennsylvania require a background check for Professional Engineer (PE) licensing?
Pennsylvania doesn't condition professional engineer (pe) licensure on a criminal background check, though employers in the field may impose their own screening requirements.
What are the continuing education requirements for Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania?
To stay licensed as a professional engineer (pe) in Pennsylvania, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $259.

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