EIT and PE Licensing

If you’re considering a future in engineering, you may have heard terms like EIT or PE. The initials aren’t very descriptive in themselves, but these are professional credentials that some engineers earn during their careers. It can be helpful to know what they are and whether they might be part of your future.

What Is an EIT?

EIT stands for Engineer-in-Training. It’s a certification that shows you’ve started on the path to becoming a licensed professional engineer.

To become an EIT, you generally need to:

Graduate from an ABET-accredited engineering program (that means a college program that meets national standards) – In some cases you may be able to substitute another degree or experience, but this depends on the state.
Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam – This is an exam that covers most of the things you would learn by earning a 4-year engineering degree, so many people choose to take it shortly after graduating from college.
Apply for certification as an EIT in your state – Each state determines the specific requirements for licensing engineers.

Think of it as a way to show your progress toward a PE license. Many employers recognize the EIT as a sign that you're serious about your engineering career, even if you don’t end up pursuing full licensure.

What Is a PE License?

PE stands for Professional Engineer. It’s a license that shows an engineer has met education, experience, and exam requirements, and is legally allowed to approve and take responsibility for engineering work.

Getting a PE license is kind of like becoming a licensed doctor or lawyer, but for engineers. It’s not required for every engineering job, but in fields where public safety is involved – like designing bridges, roads, water systems, or power plants – it’s often essential.

Becoming an EIT (described above)
Gaining a few years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed engineer
Passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam

PEs are trusted to lead major projects and ensure public safety. In fields like civil, environmental, or structural engineering, a PE license may be required to sign off on designs, submit official documents, or supervise construction work.

Do All Engineers Need a PE License?

Not at all. Many engineers work in fields where a PE license isn’t required such as product design, research, manufacturing, or software. Some examples include:

A mechanical engineer designing parts for phones
A software engineer building apps
A biomedical engineer working in a research lab

On the other hand, if you're planning to work on public infrastructure, in construction or consulting, or on large civil or structural projects, a PE license is often necessary. In those fields, licensed engineers may be legally responsible for plans and safety, and only PEs can “stamp” or approve official documents.

Even in roles where it’s not required, some employers prefer engineers who are licensed. Government agencies often require it for certain jobs, but many engineers build successful careers without ever needing a PE license. Whether or not you pursue one depends on your career goals and the type of engineering you plan to do.

Should You Plan for It?

If you’re still in middle or high school, you don’t need to decide right now whether you’ll pursue a license, but it’s good to be aware of the option.

Here’s what you can do now:

Focus on doing well in school and explore your options with extra-curricular activities
Learn about different types of engineering to see what interests you
Look for ABET-accredited college programs if you’re thinking of majoring in engineering
Ask technical professionals or teachers if you can shadow them or learn more about what they do

Later, when you’re in college or early in your career, you can speak with your professors and colleagues about it. At that point you’ll get a better sense of whether the EIT/PE route fits your goals.

In Summary:

EIT = Engineer-in-Training, the first step toward licensure

PE = Professional Engineer, a licensed expert who can take legal responsibility for engineering work