Pennsylvania Engineers
Coordinated through the PA Department of State
Engineering exams in Pennsylvania are administered in conjunction with the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). All policies and procedures related to the administration of these exams are governed by NCEES.
Exam information
The PE Exam is computer-based test and offered year-round. All PE candidates in Pennsylvania must be pre-approved by the State Registration Board. Applications for pre-approval are submitted to the Board via the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS).
Process for receiving approval to test:
- Submit application to PALS.
- Please PA Engineers Candidate Information Bulletin (PDF) for additional information regarding the pre-approval process and required fees.
The SE Exam is a paper-based test that is delivered twice a year on dates selected by NCEES. All SE candidates in Pennsylvania must be pre-approved by the State Registration Board. Applications for pre-approval are submitted to the Board via the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS).
Process for receiving approval to test:
- Submit application to PALS.
- Please PA Engineers Candidate Information Bulletin (PDF) for additional information regarding the pre-approval process and required fees.
For ABET degree holders
- Schedule your examination on your NCEES portal
- Once exam is passed, submit your Engineer In Training Certification application on PALS
For NON-ABET degree holders
- Go to PALS to submit application
- Eligibility Letter will be given once application is reviewed and approved
- Go to your NCEES portal to schedule your examination after you receive approval.
- Contact Board office when exam is passed
Once you are eligible to take the FE Exam, please schedule your exam.
Please download the PA Engineers Candidate Information Bulletin (PDF) for additional information regarding the application process and required fees.
Customer service
Depending on the nature of your question, you may need to contact either the State Board or NCEES.
Contact the State Registration Board to:
- Clarify information about licensure
- Change your demographic information (e.g., name, email, etc.)
- Obtain license verification
- Obtain information regarding your Application for Examination
Board Contact Information
Contact info for the State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists:
P.O. Box 2649 Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
717-783-7049
st-engineer@pa.gov
Website: www.dos.pa.gov/engineers
Contact NCEES to:
- Obtain information regarding the exam content
- View the examination blueprint
- Obtain the Examination schedule
- Download the NCEES Examinee Guide (for exam scoring information and exam day procedures)
Last updated 2025-10-31