Department of Engineering Technology
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Requirements for Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas for Graduates from Engineering Technology Programs

Prepared by Professor N.S. Nandagopal, P.E.

• Passing the 8-hour Fundamentals of Engineering (FE, formerly known as EIT) examination.

• Eight (8) years of experience in the engineering field, acceptable to the engineering board.  This experience is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  Normally, the board accepts experience such as engineering design, calculations and analysis.  the board also accepts engineering work related to public health and safety.  Practice of engineering using codes and standards is clearly acceptable.

• Passing the 8-hour Principle and Practice examination in your discipline.  This is also known as the PE examination.  You should choose the discipline in which you are most competent.  Some of the disciplines available that would be suitable for ET graduates from UH-Downtown are:  Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering and Control Systems.  Familiarize yourself with all the topics in the P.E. exam before you make the decision.  For more information on P.E. exam topics, visit the web site www.ncees.org

• Passing the Texas Ethics of Engineering Exam.  This is an open book examination concerning the Texas Engineering Practice Act and the Board Rules.

Key Suggestions for ET Students and Graduates

• Take the FE exam as soon as possible, that is, while you are a senior at UH-Downtown or soon after you graduate.  It is much more difficult to pass the exam once you are out of school.  Also, passing the FE exam can benefit your career significantly.

• Keep a careful record of all your engineering experience.  When you submit your experience record to the board, make sure that you use terms such as "designed", "calculated","engineering analysis" if such terms are applicable to the experience you have.  Keep copies of samples of engineering work that you have performed.  Make sure that your supervisors can certify your experience and that they are willing to serve as references.

• Consider obtaining a Master's degree in engineering.  This will cut down your engineering experience requirements to four (4) years.

If you have any questions, visit the following web sites:

• www.tbpe.state.tx.us
• www.ncees.org