How to apply for the PE exam

You register for the PE through your MyNCEES account and pay NCEES $400 (or $350 per PE Structural section). Whether you need your state board’s approval first depends on the state: some let you register directly with NCEES, while others require an application, a fee and verified experience before you can book. Then you schedule a Pearson VUE appointment.

Sources: NCEES and state licensing boards, checked October 11, 2026.

Step by step

• 1. Check your board’s rules: whether you need approval first and whether you can take the PE before completing your experience. See your state’s page.
• 2. Get board approval if required: submit the application, references and fee; allow extra time, as this can take months.
• 3. Register in MyNCEES: choose your discipline and pay the NCEES fee.
• 4. Schedule: book a Pearson VUE appointment (year-round exams) or register for the one annual date (smaller disciplines).
• 5. Apply for your license after passing: once you meet the experience and any state-specific requirements.

Tips

• Start an NCEES Record if you may seek licenses in several states; it stores verified education, exams and experience for comity applications.
• Request accommodations early: NCEES offers ADA accommodations and military exceptions with documentation.