Skip to main content
USLG
HomeStatesProfessionsAbout

Professional Engineer (PE) License in Pennsylvania

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Professional Engineer (PE) license in PA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$500

Processing Time

8-12 Weeks

Exam Required

FE & PE Exams (NCEES)

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Professional Engineer (PE) license in Pennsylvania.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Professional Engineer (PE) training program in Pennsylvania.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your PA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the FE & PE Exams (NCEES).

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Pennsylvania licensing board and pay the $500 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 8-12 weeks in PA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania, the licensing process begins with education. PA mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the FE & PE Exams (NCEES). Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Pennsylvania regulatory board.

Requirements

Pennsylvania has specific requirements for Professional Engineer (PE) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to design and oversee engineering projects. A clean background check is mandatory in PA, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The FE & PE Exams (NCEES) must be passed with a minimum score set by the Pennsylvania board.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania starts at $500 for the application fee. PA requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Pennsylvania can add up to $175 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania

Base License Fee$500
Estimated Total$500

Renewal Process

Pennsylvania requires Professional Engineer (PE) license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $350 in PA. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Pennsylvania offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Professional Engineer (PE) in PA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Pennsylvania requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Pennsylvania offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. PA has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Pennsylvania also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Professional Engineer (PE) professionals.

Document Checklist — Professional Engineer (PE)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Pennsylvania Professional Engineer (PE) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts PA Professional Engineer (PE) license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize PA Professional Engineer (PE) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for PA license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for PA license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for PA license holders.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize PA Professional Engineer (PE) license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize PA Professional Engineer (PE) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts PA Professional Engineer (PE) license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Pennsylvania

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Harrisburg

2601 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17110

(717) 783-3397

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Philadelphia

1400 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19130

(215) 686-1776

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Pittsburgh

414 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

(412) 255-2626

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Allentown

435 Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101

(610) 437-7500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Erie

626 State St, Erie, PA 16501

(814) 870-1234

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Pennsylvania Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Pennsylvania state board. Regulations may change.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.

Contact Our Team

Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.