In order to become a licensed engineer,
you�ll have to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
first, which is administered by the National Council of Examiners
for Engineering (NCEE). The test assesses basic skills and
scientific concepts that are common to all engineers. The FE exam
is multiple choice and lasts for 8 hours. It covers math,
physics, chemistry and engineering science.
You don�t have to be a graduate in order to start the
licensure process. Many universities encourage engineering
students to take the FE exam during their senior year
(statistically, students tend to perform worse the longer they�re
out of school). If you pass before completing your four years of
professional experience, you�ll receive a pre-licensure
certificate designating you as an EIT (Engineer in Training).
Once you�ve finished your first four years of engineering work
and passed the FE exam, you�ll be qualified to take the
Principles and Practice test. This second exam is an 8-hour
assessment of your knowledge and skills in your particular
engineering specialty such as Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, or
Chemical Engineering. You can find more information on these
exams at www.ncees.org.
