How to Work in the U.S. As a Foreign-Educated Engineer

In this guide, we will answer the following questions:

Why Become a Licensed Engineer in the U.S.?

If you’re a Professional Engineer, commonly known as a “PE,” and you’re considering moving to the U.S., you might be wondering what the steps are to get licensed and start working in your field.

The good news is that engineers worldwide can work in the U.S. if they meet the requirements. Each state has its process, but becoming a Professional Engineer is achievable if you follow the correct steps.

Getting licensed might take some time, but don’t be discouraged. In many cases, you can even start working as an engineer in training and earning a competitive wage before you receive your PE license. From there, you can secure a job in your field and put your skills to work.

This article will walk you through the key steps to getting your license and moving forward in your career. We’ll include links to helpful resources like licensing boards and study guides as we go along.

Work Opportunities Across Disciplines

You might be wondering if pursuing an engineering license is worth the effort. So, let’s take a closer look at the U.S. job market.

Engineers play a vital role in shaping the future and solving complex societal problems. Engineers are always in demand, whether you’re designing bridges, developing software, or working on renewable energy solutions.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering is one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S. They project that engineering jobs will grow faster than other careers through 2033, with about 195,000 openings yearly.

Job Demand and Salary Potential

The field of engineering offers strong job security and is financially rewarding. According to Indeed.com, the average salary for engineers in the United States is over $100,000. With experience and career advancement, there’s potential to earn even more.

So, let’s look at the steps you’ll need to take to get licensed and start working in the field.

Who Issues Engineering Licenses?

National Support vs. State Licensing Boards

One of the most important things to know is which authority will grant your professional engineering license.

Engineers are pivotal in designing and maintaining the systems that shape our daily lives. To handle complex projects where safety is a concern, state licensing boards want to be sure you’ve had the proper training. Earning a license proves you’re ready by showing that you’ve passed exams, gained experience, and met your state’s specific requirements.

In the U.S., there are national organizations that support engineers, including the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, or NCEES, and the National Society of Professional Engineers, also known as NSPE. Though these organizations offer valuable resources and guidance, your PE license will be issued by the licensing board in your state.

For instance, if you want to work in California, you would be licensed by the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. You’d go through the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors in Texas.

A great way to find your state licensing board is by using the directory on the NCEES website. There, you’ll see an extensive list of all state licensing boards.

We’ll also provide contact details for the California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Texas licensing boards. These states are the seven most sought-after destinations for people relocating to the U.S.

How to Contact Your State Board

Let’s talk about the best way to communicate with your licensing board.

First, if English isn’t your first language, consider writing your email or letter in your native language and then translating it to make sure it’s clear. We can help with professional translation services into English to make your message easy to understand.

In your communication, be sure to include all relevant details. This includes your full name, phone number, mailing address, and email address so the board can easily respond to you.

If you prefer to speak directly with the licensing board on the phone, keep in mind that office hours are typically from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Also, remember that the U.S. spans several time zones, so it’s a good idea to look up the local time of the state board you want to call.

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Engineer

Overview of the Licensing Process

Before we discuss the specifics, let’s review the general steps foreign-trained engineers must follow to earn their U.S. engineering license.

Though each state may have slightly different requirements, this process usually follows five main steps:

1. Get your credentials evaluated
2. Pass the FE exam
3. Become an EIT and gain experience
4. Pass the PE exam
5. Apply for state licensure

Let’s take a closer look at these steps.

The first step is having your education credentials evaluated. Most states require this to ensure that your degree meets their standards. Some states only accept evaluations from specific organizations, so it’s important to check with the licensing board.

The second step is taking the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, also known as the FE exam. This test covers the basics of engineering and is required in most states.

The third step is becoming an Engineer in Training, commonly called an “EIT,” and gain work experience. This means working under a licensed engineer for a certain number of years, depending on the state’s requirements.

The fourth step is passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, often called the PE exam.

The fifth and final step is to apply for your engineering license. Each state has its application process; some may require additional paperwork, background checks, or ethics exams before granting a license.

Again, some states may have additional steps or different paths, especially for engineers with years of experience abroad. So, it’s always a good idea to check with your state’s licensing board to get the most accurate information for your situation.

Credential Evaluation

Let’s take a more detailed look at what you need to get your credentials evaluated.

Most states require that foreign-trained engineers have their academic qualifications reviewed by an official credential evaluation service. These services evaluate your degree and professional experience, comparing them to U.S. qualifications to determine if they align with the educational requirements needed to become an engineer in the U.S.

To start, you’ll need to find an evaluation service approved by your state’s licensing board, as different states may have specific preferences.

Some states may have a list of approved services, while others may let you choose from various providers. The best thing to do is to contact your state licensing board to see whether they have a preferred company.

It’s worth noting that the NCEES offers its credential evaluation service, which is accepted by most states. Since you’ll likely be submitting your credential evaluation to the NCEES to take national exams, using their service could simplify the process.

These evaluations usually cost between $200 and $400, and the processing time can range from just a few days to up to 4 weeks. If you’re in a hurry, many services offer faster options for an extra fee, typically between $80 and $150. Once the evaluation is complete, the service should send the results to you and your state’s licensing board to confirm your eligibility for the licensure exams.

As you’re deciding which type of evaluation you want, choosing a thorough one, often called a ‘comprehensive’ or ‘Course-by-Course Evaluation,’ is probably your best bet. This ensures your state licensing board has all the necessary information from the start, which could help speed up the process.

To use a credential evaluation service, you’ll need to gather a few essential documents, including your original degree certificate or diploma, transcripts, and mark sheets. If your documents are not in English, they must be translated by a certified translator to ensure accuracy.

Certified Translations

Even if you’re fluent in English, you cannot translate your documents. Credential evaluation agencies typically require translations to be completed by a certified professional, and some may have specific guidelines depending on whether the translation is done in the U.S. or abroad, so it’s essential to verify their requirements beforehand.

Certified translations convert your documents into English so credential evaluators or licensing boards can review your academic and professional qualifications adequately. However, these translations do not determine equivalency to U.S. degrees, nor do they alter your grades. For example, a score of “10” in a numerical grading system will remain a “10,” not be converted to an “A.”

In addition to transcripts and diplomas, you may also want to have letters of recommendation or work certificates translated if you plan to apply for jobs or further licensure.

Order Your Certified Translation
Get a free quote

Proving English Proficiency

Strong English skills will be essential if you’re planning to become a licensed engineer in the U.S.

Clear communication is vital for engineers’ work, whether reviewing blueprints, troubleshooting mechanical issues, or coordinating electrical systems.

Also, the Fundamentals of Engineering and Principles and Practice of Engineering exams are administered in English. This means you must be comfortable reading complex technical questions, interpreting engineering concepts, and understanding exam instructions.

Once you start working, strong English skills will continue to be essential. You’ll need to communicate with clients or supervisors, write reports, and discuss project specifications with other engineers, architects, or contractors.

Beyond that, many state licensing boards require continuing education courses to maintain your engineering license, and these courses are conducted in English.

Because of this, employers often expect engineers to be proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English. Passing an English proficiency exam is one way to demonstrate your language skills.

The following are two of the most widely recognized exams.

Exam	Full Name
TOEFL	Test of English as a Foreign Language
IELTS	International English Language Testing System

These exams can prove you have the English skills needed to succeed in the profession, and if you have a certificate from either organization, it will likely help you find a job more quickly after you’re licensed.

Required National Exams

The FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) Exam

Now that we’ve covered language skills, let’s discuss the exams you’ll need to pass.

So now we can discuss the national exams you’ll need to pass. The first is the FE exam.

The Fundamentals of Engineering exam, commonly referred to as the FE exam, is created and overseen by the NCEES.

The FE exam is a computer-based exam that’s administered throughout the year by Pearson VUE. Luckily, Pearson VUE has testing locations in many areas, so you should be able to find one within a short drive of where you live.

How to Register for the FE Exam

To register for the exam, you’ll first need to create a “MyNCEES” through their website. After completing the registration process, you’ll receive an email letting you know you’ve successfully registered and you’ve been authorized to take the exam.

Once authorized, log in to your MyNCEES account, select the ‘SCHEDULE’ option, and follow the on-screen instructions to book an exam.

Exam Fees, Rescheduling, and Cancellation

The exam fee is $225, and you can pay it directly to NCEES during the online registration process. NCEES accepts credit card payments online from MasterCard, VISA, and American Express. You’ll need to pay the full fee when you register for the exam.

You can reschedule your exam appointment by logging in to your MyNCEES account. Select the “Reschedule” link and follow the on-screen instructions. The rescheduling fee is $50 and must be rescheduled at least 48 hours before the initially scheduled time.

The process for canceling your exam is similar. Log in to your MyNCEES account, select the ‘Cancel’ button, and follow the on-screen instructions. Like rescheduling, the fee to cancel your exam is $50.

Exam Disciplines and Format

When you register for the exam, you’ll have to choose from 1 of 7 possible exam disciplines. Those seven possible disciplines are Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Computer, Environmental, Industrial and Systems, Mechanical, and Other Disciplines Practice. Each exam discipline has a brief practice exam available on the NCEES website. These practice exams are just a few pages long in PDF form and are designed to give you an idea of what the questions will be like. If you need to change your exam discipline after registering, you must pay a $50 administrative fee.

Pearson VUE also provides a short demo test, which is designed to show you how their software works and does not test examinees on engineering information.

Question Types and Scoring

No matter which discipline of the exam you choose, each version consists of 110 questions, and you’ll be given 6 hours to complete the exam. The 6-hour session starts with a 2-minute nondisclosure agreement, and then, you’ll go through an 8-minute tutorial. After that, the exam itself lasts 5 hours and 20 minutes. You’ll also have a scheduled break, which is 25 minutes long.

Most exam questions are in a traditional multiple-choice format, where only one answer is correct. However, you might also come across what the NCEES calls “alternative item types” or AITs. These include questions with multiple correct options, meaning more than one answer can be right. There are also “point-and-click” questions, where you’ll need to click on part of a graphic to answer. You may see drag-and-drop questions, where you match, sort, rank, or label items by dragging them. Finally, some questions may have a blank space where you enter a numerical response. No matter the question type, all are scored as either correct or incorrect.

For more details on how the exam questions are divided and what each discipline focuses on, you can check out the NCEES PDFs for each version of the FE exam. Each one includes important information like the exam format, how many minutes you’ll have for each section, covered topics, number of questions, subtopics, measurement systems, and any specific requirements for that discipline.

After completing the exam, test-takers usually receive results within 7 to 10 days. The NCEES will send you an email with instructions for how to check your exam results in your ‘MyNCEES’ account.

Your exam score is based on the number of correct answers, and there’s no penalty for wrong answers. That raw score is then converted into a scaled score to account for slight differences between different exam versions.

However, the NCEES won’t publish your numerical score. You’ll only see a pass or fail result. If you don’t pass, you’ll receive a diagnostic report highlighting areas where you performed well and where you struggled, which can help if you decide to try again.

Exam Retakes

You can take the FE exam up to 3 times within 12 months, but you’re limited to one attempt during each 3-month testing window. So, you can retake the exam as many times as you need, as long as you wait for the next testing window in between each attempt. Remember, each time you retake the exam, you’ll need to pay the full $225 exam fee.

The table below provides a quick reference to the key details of the FE exam, summarizing important information from the section above for easy review.

Feature	Detail
Fee	$225
Duration	6 hours
Format	110 questions
Frequency	Year-round
Retakes	3 per year

Study Materials and Practice Exams

One of the best ways to avoid retaking the exam is to pass it on your first try, and the way to do that is by studying. A perfect place to start is by reviewing the PDF that matches the specific discipline version of the exam you plan to take. As you review that PDF, you’ll find clear lists of which subjects to focus your studies on. In addition to those PDFs, you can download NCEES reference handbooks for each exam, but only after creating an online account with NCEES.

After that, the NCEES offers $50 interactive FE practice exams for each version of the FE exam. Each one includes 50 questions with solutions and mimics the computer-based format. You can take it in timed mode, review solutions instantly, and see the subject areas covered by each question. There’s a separate version for each FE discipline, and you’ll have unlimited access for a year after purchase.

If you’re looking to elevate your studying and improve your chances of success, you might want to check out one of the exam prep courses from PPI2PASS. Many people who have taken the FE exam say that PPI2PASS offers one of the best prep courses out there. Luckily, PPI2PASS offers three different course options based on how much you’re willing to spend. The packages cost $1,795, $195, and $59.

The more you pay, the more access you’ll have to live help and other exam takers. Even the most affordable option gives you over 2,700 exam-style questions and two full-length practice exams.

Another great option is the School of PE, which offers a similar study course at a lower price. Their most expensive package costs $1,490, making it more affordable than PPI2PASS. This course includes live online classes, study questions, and a timed six-hour mock exam. They also provide a variety of e-books, question banks, and individual tutoring sessions at lower costs, so you can try out the platform without spending as much.

Another thing worth noting is that the School of PE offers both Apple and Android mobile apps so you can review your study materials from your phone or tablet, no matter where you are.

Online Communities and Support Groups

One of the best ways to stay on top of FE exam prep and connect with the engineering community is by joining online forums. These are great places to find study tips, valuable resources, and advice from others who’ve taken the exam.

The subreddit re/FE_Exam has over 21,000 members, with new questions, resources, and advice being shared every day. If you have a specific question, there’s a good chance you’ll get a response within just a few hours.

Similarly, the Facebook group FE Exam & PE Exam has over 23,000 members. There, you’ll be able to find like-minded people offering advice and resources and sharing their experiences taking the FE exam.

Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Phase

What Is the EIT Certification?

After passing the FE exam, the next step for most engineers is becoming an Engineer in Training or EIT.

This is also called an “Engineer Intern” in many states, but both titles mean the same thing. This certification allows engineers to gain the hands-on experience required before taking the PE exam.

Work Experience Requirements and Salary Expectations for EITs

One good thing to remember is that while you may need to work as an EIT for a while before you can get your engineering license, you’ll at least be getting paid while in this role. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for EITs is around $91,000. So, even before you’re licensed, you’re still likely to earn a pretty good living.

While some states may have exceptions, NCEES generally requires at least 4 years of work experience as a trainee before you can sit for the PE exam.

How to Document Your Experience

As you work with your EIT certification, you’ll need to document your experience. Most state boards require a detailed record to ensure it meets the necessary criteria. This includes a statement from you describing the work you’ve done and verification from your supervisor.

State-Specific Guidelines for EITs

State requirements can vary, and many provide forms for both candidates and supervisors to use. Make sure to check with your state’s licensing board for the exact details. In general, you’ll need to include your job title, your level of responsibility, and a specific summary of the work you performed, including your duties and the complexity of the projects.

Work experience verifications will be processed electronically in your MyNCEES account. Your references will receive an email with instructions on how to access the secure information. It’s a good idea to notify your references beforehand and follow up with them to ensure they respond to the email. To meet most state requirements, your supervisor or department manager should be a licensed engineer during your time of employment.

The PE (Principles and Practice of Engineering) Exam

Exam Versions, Formats, and Costs

After passing the FE exam and acquiring work experience as an EIT, you’ll need to pass the PE exam.

The Principles and Practices of Engineering exam is commonly called the PE exam. Like the FE exam, this exam is also administered by the NCEES, and there are more than 20 versions of the exam, depending on which type of engineer you plan to become.

For most versions of the exam, there are either 80 or 85 questions, and test-takers are given 9 or 9 and a half hours to complete the exam. These versions of the exam all have a fee of $400.

The Structural PE exam is divided into two sections: the breadth section and the depth section. The breadth section has 55 questions and lasts 6 hours. The depth section contains 60 questions and lasts five and a half hours. Both halves of the structural exam have a fee of $350, so in total, you’ll pay $700 to take this exam.

Registration and Scheduling Process

Unlike the FE exam, the PE exam doesn’t follow a single set schedule because there are so many versions. Some PE exams are available year-round, allowing test-takers to register and take them at their convenience. Others, especially those with fewer test-takers, are only offered once a year on a specific date.

Still, much of what applies to the FE exam also applies to the PE exam.

Just like the FE, the PE is a computer-based test you’ll take at a Pearson VUE testing center. To sign up for the exam, you must register through your MyNCEES account, pay the exam fee when you sign up, and schedule your test on the NCEES website. If you need to reschedule or cancel, the cost is $50 as long as you make changes at least 48 hours in advance.

Question Types and Scoring

The PE exam includes a mix of multiple-choice and alternative item-type questions. These might ask you to select multiple correct answers, click on specific parts of a diagram, drag and drop items into place, or enter a numerical response. Just like the FE exam, every question is either right or wrong, and there is no penalty for incorrect answers.

You will typically get your results in 7 to 10 days, and NCEES will email you when they are ready. The scoring process works the same way as the FE exam. The exception is the PE Structural depth exam, which requires standard-setting evaluations. Those results take longer, typically 10 to 13 weeks. Your raw score is converted to a scaled score, but NCEES will not tell you the exact numbers. If you do not pass, you will get a diagnostic report showing how you performed in different subject areas.

Retake Policy and Limits

If you need to retake the PE exam, you can try again up to 3 times in 12 months, but you will have to pay the full exam fee each time.

Study Resources and Practice Exams

Studying is one of the best ways to avoid retaking the exam, and NCEES offers downloadable e-book practice exams to help you prepare. Each practice exam is in PDF format and includes 50 questions along with solutions. There’s a separate practice exam for every version of the PE exam, so you can focus on the one that matches your specific discipline. These exams are designed to give you a feel for the content and structure of the test. Once you download them to your device, you have lifetime access, so you can revisit them as much as you need.

As with the FE exam, PPI2PASS and the School of PE have created thorough study guides for the PE exams within the same price range.

Online Study Communities

If you’re looking for an online community while studying for the PE exam, the subreddit re/PE Study Group 2024/2025 has over 23,000 members. There, you can find people to answer questions and refer you to resources.

The Facebook group we mentioned earlier, the FE Exam & PE Exam, also has over 23,000 members. You’ll see daily posts with updates and discussions about the exam. There, you can ask questions, share study strategies, and connect with others on the same journey.

State-Specific Licensing Requirements

Where to Find Information On Your State

Now, let’s take a look at specific states and their requirements for licensure.

The NCEES has a helpful webpage called “Exam Registration and Requirements by State“. When you click on a state, you will see its licensing board’s contact information and the registration requirements. This page is a helpful place to start if you are beginning the licensing process.

Specific Requirements for 7 Key States Among Immigrants

California

Let’s start with California, where engineers need 6 years of experience before applying for their engineering license, and the application fee is $175.

Florida

The Florida Board of Professional Engineers only accepts two credential evaluation companies: Josef Silny & Associates and the NCEES Credentials Evaluations. To apply, you’ll need 4 years of experience if you have a Bachelor of Science or 6 years if you have a Bachelor of Science in engineering technology, and the application costs $100.

Illinois

In Illinois, the only credential evaluation service the state accepts is from NCEES. Also, if your engineering education was not in English, you must pass the TOEFL exam. However, if you earn a postgraduate degree from a U.S.-accredited engineering program, the exam will be waived. In terms of experience, engineers educated abroad will need a total of 8 years of experience before applying for their engineering license, and the license is $100.

Massachusetts

As for Massachusetts, you’ll need 8 years of engineering experience before obtaining your license. The Massachusetts Board of Registration of Professional Engineers prefers credential evaluation services performed by the NCEES, and your engineer application fee will be $150.

New Jersey

To become an engineer in New Jersey, you’ll need four years of total experience, and two of those years need to be gained in the United States. The application fee for engineers in New Jersey is $75. Also, the state of New Jersey only accepts credential evaluations from three companies, including the NCEES credential evaluation service, ​Josef Silny & Associates, and ​Educational Perspectives.

New York

New York, the requirements are more demanding than in some states. You need 6 years of experience to take the FE exam, then another 6, making it 12 in total, to take the PE and get licensed. The fee to apply for a license will be $377.

Texas

Lastly, in Texas, foreign engineers will likely need at least eight years of experience to apply for a license, as the state requires this for degrees from non-accredited institutions. Your credential evaluations must be conducted by one of five specific organizations, and the NCEES credential evaluation service is one of them. Also, Texas requires engineers to take The Texas Ethics of Engineering Exam, but luckily, you can take it online, and the exam is open book. Plus, you can download PDFs of the questions and the answers, so you should have no trouble passing, and there’s no fee to take the exam. However, there is a $75 fee to apply for a professional engineering license.

State Requirements Summary

The table below summarizes key licensing requirements for seven of the most popular states among foreign-trained engineers, offering a quick reference to complement the detailed information provided above.

State	Experience Required	Evaluation Accepted	Application Fee
CA	6 years	NCEES	$175
FL	4-6 years	NCEES or Josef Silny	$100
IL	8 years	NCEES	$100
MA	8 years	NCEES preferred	$150
NJ	4 years (2 in U.S.)	NCEES, Silny, Ed. Perspectives	$75
NY	12 years	NCEES	$377
TX	8 years	5 approved services	$75

Maintaining Your Engineering License

After receiving your license, you’ll need to maintain it regularly throughout your career.

Renewal Periods, Fees, and CE Requirements by State

California

For example, in California, Professional Engineers must renew their license every 2 years for a fee of $180, and the state has no continuing education requirements.

Florida

In Florida, professional engineers must complete 18 professional development hours every 2 years to renew their license, and the fee will be $49.

Illinois

Engineers in Illinois will need 30 hours of professional development during each 2-year license renewal period. The fee to renew your license is $30 per year so that it will be $60 in total.

Massachusetts

As for Massachusetts, engineers won’t need to keep up with any continuing education requirements to maintain their licenses. But, there is a $150 fee for each 2-year licensing period.

New Jersey

To maintain your license in New Jersey, you’ll need 24 professional development hours every 2 years for a fee of $80.

New York

New York’s licensing period is unique because it lasts 3 years, and you’ll need 36 hours of professional development to keep it active. Your renewal fee is split into 2 amounts: a continuing education fee of $45 and a registration fee of $242, for a total of $287.

Texas

Likewise, the Texas license renewal period is unique because it only lasts 1 year, and you’ll need 15 hours of professional development every year. Each year, you’ll need to pay a $50 renewal fee.

License Renewal Summary

The table below offers a quick overview of license renewal requirements by state, including renewal periods, continuing education hours, and fees, to complement the detailed explanations above.

State	Renewal Period	CE Hours	Fee
CA	2 years	None	$180
FL	2 years	18	$49
IL	2 years	30	$60
MA	2 years	None	$150
NJ	2 years	24	$80
NY	3 years	36	$287
TX	1 year	15	$50

Final Steps and Preparing for Your Engineering Career in the U.S.

That wraps up our overview of the licensure process of popular states for immigrants in the U.S.

While each state may have specific requirements, the overall process is relatively consistent, and what we’ve covered should give you a solid understanding of what to expect no matter where you plan to work.

As you prepare to move and begin searching for careers in engineering, you’ll find that PEs are in high demand, which means you’ll probably secure a competitive salary and stable work. While the licensure process can be challenging, it’s a valuable investment in your career. With the skills and education you already have, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to advance in your career and contribute to essential engineering projects.

Wherever you’re coming from, moving to the United States often requires certified translations of essential documents. This could include your college transcripts, degree certificates, birth certificates, and any engineering-related credentials you’ve earned abroad.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure you have all the necessary translations to start your new chapter!

The content provided by U.S. Language Services is for general information and educational purposes only, not a substitute for professional legal or financial advice. Despite our efforts to ensure accurate and timely content, we do not guarantee the completeness, correctness, or suitability of the information on our site or any linked content.

U.S. Language Services is not a law firm; its content should not be taken as legal advice. For specific legal concerns, please consult a licensed attorney. Similarly, financial information on our site is for informational purposes only, not financial advice. Consult a certified financial advisor or tax professional for advice tailored to your situation.

By accessing U.S. Language Services, you acknowledge that it does not provide legal or financial advice. You agree not to rely on its content as such. U.S. Language Services and its contributors bear no liability for any inaccuracies, losses, or damages resulting from the use of information on our site.