How Many Times Can You Take the FE or PE Exam?

Earning a professional engineering license requires passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams, both administered by NCEES. These exams are challenging, and not everyone passes on the first try. Knowing how many times you can retake them is essential for planning your career path.

Pass rates show why this matters: the FE Civil exam sees about 65% first-time success, while repeat takers in PE disciplines often see pass rates drop by a third compared to first attempts. Retakes are possible, but they follow strict limits set by NCEES and sometimes tightened by state licensing boards.

Key Takeaways

FE Exam: Up to three attempts in 12 months, one per testing window.
PE Exam: Similar retake structure—maximum three attempts per year, depending on jurisdiction.
State Boards: Some enforce additional waiting periods or requirements after multiple failures.
Pass Rates: First-time takers consistently outperform repeat takers.
Preparation Strategy: Understanding limits helps minimize costly and time-consuming retakes.

Understanding FE Exam Retake Rules

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the first step toward licensure, typically taken by engineering students in their final year or shortly after graduation. Administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers, the exam is designed to test academic knowledge before it fades with time. While the FE is challenging, what matters to many candidates is the reassurance that failing once does not end their journey.

NCEES Retake Policy for the FE Exam

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) allows examinees to attempt the FE exam multiple times, but within defined limits:

One attempt per testing window: The year is divided into four testing windows—January–March, April–June, July–September, and October–December. You may sit for the exam only once during any single window.
Up to three attempts in a rolling 12-month period: Starting from the date of your first attempt, you can test again up to two more times within the following 12 months, provided you use different windows.
Additional restrictions by state boards: While NCEES provides the baseline rules, your state’s engineering board may impose stricter limitations. For example, some boards reduce the number of retakes allowed per year, while others require remedial coursework after several failures before granting permission to register again.

Why These Limits Exist

NCEES structures these retake rules to balance fairness with exam integrity. Too many attempts within a short time could create an unfair advantage, as repeated exposure might improve familiarity rather than actual competence. The spacing between windows ensures candidates have time to revisit weak areas, gain further knowledge, or adjust their study approach.

State Variations

Policies differ from one jurisdiction to another. For example:

Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors has historically allowed candidates to follow NCEES’s three-attempt rule but reserves the right to require additional documentation after multiple failures.
California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists may require candidates who fail several times to submit proof of additional study or coursework before allowing another attempt.
Some states adopt the NCEES baseline without modifications, but it’s always important to check your specific board’s website for current requirements.

The Financial and Practical Impact

Each FE attempt costs roughly $175 (as set by NCEES), not including additional expenses like prep courses, study materials, or lost time. If a candidate reaches three attempts in a year without passing, they must wait until the 12-month cycle resets before trying again. This can delay the overall licensing timeline significantly, particularly for students hoping to move quickly into engineering-in-training (EIT) or engineer-intern (EI) status.

Pass Rate Differences Between Attempts

Statistics reinforce why understanding retake limits is important. According to NCEES data, first-time takers consistently outperform repeat takers. For instance, the FE Civil exam reports first-time pass rates around 65%, while repeat taker success drops noticeably. The gap shows the importance of learning from initial mistakes and using the enforced waiting period wisely to improve preparation.

Preparing for a Retake

If you do not pass the FE on your first attempt, consider the following steps before scheduling another:

Review the diagnostic report provided by NCEES, which highlights weak content areas.
Shift your study methods—if self-study wasn’t effective, try a structured prep course.
Use the waiting period productively by dedicating consistent weekly hours to problem-solving rather than cramming near the test date.
Network with peers or professors who may offer insights into difficult subjects, especially in areas like thermodynamics or structural analysis, where many students struggle.

PE Exam Retake Rules and Considerations

The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is the second and final step toward earning a Professional Engineer license in the United States. Unlike the FE exam, which evaluates academic fundamentals, the PE measures applied engineering knowledge and professional judgment gained through work experience—typically after at least four years under a licensed engineer. Because of its advanced scope and professional significance, retake policies are carefully structured to protect the integrity of licensure while giving candidates multiple opportunities to succeed.

NCEES Baseline Policy

NCEES sets a national framework that most jurisdictions follow:

One attempt per testing window: The PE exam is offered in two computer-based testing windows each year (April and October for certain disciplines, while some computer-based formats are available year-round). Candidates may test once in a given window.
Up to three attempts in a rolling 12-month period: Starting from your first attempt, you may register for two additional sessions within the next year, provided you use different testing windows.

This means a candidate who first tests in April could retake in October and again the following April, as long as state board approval is maintained.

State Licensing Board Variations

While the NCEES guidelines provide the baseline, each state engineering board has the authority to impose additional requirements after multiple failures. Examples include:

Florida Board of Professional Engineers requires examinees who fail three or more times to present evidence of additional education or supervised work experience before another attempt.
New York State Education Department may request a remedial study plan after repeated failures.
California Board for Professional Engineers often mirrors the three-attempt rule but reserves the right to require supplemental coursework or extended waiting periods.

Because these policies evolve, candidates must review their state board’s website well in advance of registration.

Exam Format and Discipline Differences

The PE exam covers a broad range of engineering specialties—civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, and more. Some disciplines (for example, PE Civil) are offered in computer-based format throughout the year, while others retain paper-based April/October schedules. Retake options align with these formats: continuous testing disciplines may allow three attempts spread across any of the four annual quarters, whereas limited-schedule disciplines permit only the semiannual dates.

Impact on Licensing Timeline

Delays from failed attempts can be significant. Because professional licensure often leads to higher responsibility and compensation, even a single missed cycle can affect promotions or project eligibility. Employers sponsoring exam fees may also set internal limits on how many times they will reimburse a candidate, creating additional pressure to pass quickly.

Costs and Preparation

Each PE attempt typically costs $375–$400, depending on the discipline and testing format, not including review courses or travel if paper-based testing is required. Retaking multiple times can add thousands of dollars to the total expense. Careful budgeting and realistic scheduling are therefore essential, particularly if you plan to take the exam while working full-time.

Strategies for Repeat Takers

If you do not succeed on the first try, the period before your next attempt is crucial:

Analyze the diagnostic report provided by NCEES, which breaks down performance by knowledge area.
Reassess your study approach—consider enrolling in a formal PE review course or forming a study group with colleagues.
Gain practical experience in weaker subject areas, especially if you have limited exposure in your current job.
Plan work projects around your preparation time to ensure uninterrupted time before the next window.

State-by-State Variations and How to Verify Requirements

Although NCEES provides a national framework for both FE and PE exams, each U.S. state or territory controls final licensure. That means the number of allowable attempts, waiting periods, and remedial steps can differ widely. Understanding these variations—and keeping up with policy updates—is critical for planning your exam schedule.

Common Types of State-Level Rules

Reduced Annual Attempts
- Some boards permit only two attempts per year, even though NCEES allows three.
- Example: A board might limit candidates to one attempt every six months, regardless of discipline.
Mandatory Waiting Periods After Multiple Failures
- After three or four unsuccessful tries, several states impose a one-year or longer waiting period before another registration is approved.
- This waiting period is designed to give candidates time for additional study or professional development.
Evidence of Remediation
- Certain jurisdictions require proof of further education or supervised engineering work before another attempt.
- Florida and New York, for instance, may ask for transcripts of targeted coursework or a documented study plan.
Lifetime Limits in Rare Cases
- A small number of boards have set a lifetime cap—for example, six total attempts—though such policies are becoming less common as computer-based testing expands.

How to Confirm Current Policies

Because rules can change without broad announcement, candidates should always check the most authoritative sources:

State Board Websites: Each board posts its own licensure regulations and updates. Start at ncees.org/licensing-boards for direct links.
Board Meeting Minutes: Many boards publish meeting notes where rule changes are first recorded.
Direct Communication: Contact the board via email or phone for clarification on ambiguous policies, especially if you have multiple failures.
Professional Societies: Local chapters of engineering societies, such as ASCE or IEEE, often share updates on testing requirements.

Regional Examples

Texas: Generally mirrors NCEES rules but reserves the right to impose remedial coursework after repeated failures.
California: Requires additional documentation if candidates fail multiple times and may mandate a formal study plan.
Illinois: Historically allowed three attempts in two years, with board review for further tries.
New York: Requires evidence of extra preparation—such as completion of a review course—after several unsuccessful attempts.

Why State Differences Matter

These variations can affect more than scheduling. Candidates who move between states may need to meet the more stringent board’s requirements before their license is recognized. Additionally, employers that reimburse exam fees often require proof of compliance with local board rules, so misreading a policy can delay promotions or salary adjustments tied to licensure.

Strategies to Minimize Retakes and Maximize First-Time Success

Passing the FE or PE exam on the first attempt saves time, money, and professional momentum. While there is no single formula for success, deliberate planning and proven study methods can significantly increase your odds.

Build a Realistic Timeline

Start Early: Begin reviewing key topics at least three to six months before your scheduled exam window. This allows for gradual, consistent study rather than last-minute cramming.
Weekly Goals: Break down content areas into weekly targets—structural analysis one week, fluid mechanics the next—to avoid gaps.
Buffer Period: Reserve the final two to three weeks solely for full-length practice exams and targeted review of weak areas.

Use High-Quality Resources

Official NCEES Practice Exams: These replicate the question format and difficulty. Completing at least two full practice exams is one of the best predictors of success.
Comprehensive Review Courses: Providers such as PPI or School of PE offer structured programs with live sessions, on-demand videos, and problem sets designed around the latest exam specifications.
Discipline-Specific References: For PE candidates, confirm which codes and standards are permitted in the exam room and practice navigating them efficiently.

Leverage Diagnostic Feedback

After any failed attempt, NCEES provides a diagnostic report detailing performance by topic area. Use this as a roadmap: devote extra study hours to the lowest-scoring categories while maintaining strengths.

Simulate Exam Conditions

Timed Practice: Work through full-length exams under strict time limits to build stamina and pacing.
Calculator Familiarity: The FE and PE allow specific calculator models only; learn every shortcut and function to save valuable minutes.
Testing Environment: Practice in a quiet space similar to a Pearson VUE center to reduce anxiety on test day.

Balance Work and Study

Many PE candidates are full-time professionals, so scheduling is critical:

Early Mornings or Evenings: Dedicate consistent time slots that will not be overtaken by work emergencies.
Employer Support: Some firms offer flexible hours or reimburse review courses—ask early to secure these benefits.
Study Groups: Collaborate with peers for accountability, especially when tackling complex topics such as structural analysis or electrical power systems.

Maintain Health and Focus

Mental and physical readiness directly affect performance:

Regular Exercise and Adequate Sleep: Both improve concentration and memory retention.
Mindfulness or Stress-Reduction Techniques: Short daily practices can lower anxiety during long study periods and on exam day.
Healthy Nutrition: Consistent meals and hydration keep energy levels stable during lengthy testing sessions.

Know the Logistics

Registration Deadlines: Missing a registration date can postpone testing by months.
Allowed Materials: Review the latest NCEES Examinee Guide to avoid surprises about prohibited items or identification requirements.
Travel Planning: If your exam requires travel, book accommodations early to minimize last-minute stress.

Financial Planning for Exam Attempts

Retaking the FE or PE exam can quickly become expensive. Beyond the obvious registration fee, there are hidden costs—study materials, prep courses, and time away from work—that add up with each attempt. Careful budgeting reduces stress and helps you stay focused on passing rather than worrying about expenses.

Core Exam Fees

FE Exam: NCEES charges a flat fee of $175 for each sitting. Because the test is computer-based and offered year-round, the cost remains consistent across states.
PE Exam: Fees vary by discipline and format but generally range from $375 to $400 per attempt. Some state boards add their own administrative surcharge, so total costs may be slightly higher.

Study and Preparation Costs

Review Courses: Structured programs such as PPI or School of PE can cost anywhere from $900 to $1,500, depending on the format and length.
Reference Materials: Discipline-specific codes and standards—especially for the PE—can exceed $200–$500, and updates may be required if standards change between attempts.
Practice Exams and Software: Expect $50–$200 for official NCEES practice exams and additional question banks.

Travel and Logistics

For disciplines still requiring paper-based testing or for candidates who must travel to an approved center:

Transportation and Lodging: Airfare or long-distance driving, plus one or two nights of hotel stay, can add $200–$600 per attempt.
Time Off Work: Unpaid leave or using vacation days carries an indirect cost, especially if you are paid hourly or depend on overtime.

Employer Reimbursement

Many engineering firms support professional licensure and may reimburse exam-related expenses. Policies differ, so verify details well in advance:

Full Reimbursement: Some employers cover registration fees, review courses, and travel for the first attempt and may offer partial support for retakes.
Performance Conditions: Reimbursement might depend on passing within a certain number of tries or within a set timeframe after hire.
Continuing Education Budgets: Even if the company does not have a specific exam policy, funds allocated for professional development can sometimes be used for prep courses.

Strategies to Control Costs

Plan for First-Time Success: Investing in a robust prep course may seem expensive upfront, but it can be cheaper than multiple retakes.
Group Discounts: Some providers offer reduced rates for study groups or company cohorts.
Used Materials: Gently used reference books and practice exams are widely available through professional societies or online marketplaces.
Tax Deductions: In some jurisdictions, expenses related to professional licensure may qualify as deductible work-related education—consult a tax professional for current rules.

Why Financial Planning Matters

Without a clear budget, repeated attempts can strain personal finances and delay career milestones like raises or promotions tied to licensure. Calculating potential costs before the first registration ensures you can sustain your effort if a retake becomes necessary.

Career and Salary Benefits of Earning the PE License

Passing the FE and PE exams does more than add a title to your name. Professional Engineer licensure expands career opportunities, strengthens job security, and can significantly boost earnings over a lifetime.

Expanded Career Opportunities

Independent Practice: Only licensed Professional Engineers can sign and seal engineering drawings or offer services directly to the public. This legal authority allows you to establish a private practice or consulting firm.
Leadership Roles: Many firms reserve senior engineering or management positions for licensed PEs because the credential signals technical expertise and professional responsibility.
Government and Public Projects: Federal, state, and municipal agencies often require a PE for positions involving infrastructure planning, regulatory oversight, or project approvals.

Salary Impact

Industry surveys consistently show a salary premium for licensed engineers.

According to the National Society of Professional Engineers, licensed PEs can earn 10–20% more than their unlicensed peers in similar roles.
A 2024 report from the Engineering Salary Survey found that civil engineers with a PE credential had median salaries roughly $10,000–$15,000 higher than those without licensure.
Over a 30-year career, that difference can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional earnings.

Job Security and Marketability

Holding a PE license provides a competitive edge during economic downturns or industry shifts. Employers recognize that licensed engineers can legally take responsibility for projects, making them harder to replace during workforce reductions.

Professional Recognition and Credibility

Clients, colleagues, and the public associate the PE designation with ethical responsibility and technical competence. For engineers seeking to build a professional reputation, especially in consulting or expert-witness work, the license is often essential.

International Opportunities

While U.S. licensure is specific to state boards, the PE title is widely respected abroad. Engineers seeking roles in multinational firms or overseas projects often find that holding a U.S. PE credential enhances credibility and negotiating power.

Long-Term Value

Even if your current position does not require licensure, earning the PE early in your career ensures flexibility. Career goals and industries change; having the credential in place allows you to pivot without revisiting years of qualifying experience later.

Practical Checklist for First-Time FE and PE Examinees

Preparing for either the FE or PE exam is a long-term project. A structured checklist helps you stay on track from the moment you decide to pursue licensure until the day you receive your results.

1. Confirm Eligibility

FE Exam: Typically available to engineering students in their final year or graduates from an EAC/ABET-accredited program.
PE Exam: Requires passing the FE exam and accumulating the required engineering experience—commonly four years under the supervision of a licensed PE.
Check your state board’s website to verify any unique educational or experience requirements.

2. Choose the Right Discipline

For the FE, select the discipline (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.) that aligns with your degree.
For the PE, choose the specialty that matches your work experience and career goals. Review the NCEES exam specifications to ensure your selection fits your strengths.

3. Set a Realistic Exam Date

Review the NCEES exam windows and your own schedule to avoid conflicts with major work projects or personal commitments.
Register early to secure a preferred testing center and date.

4. Build a Study Plan

Timeline: Aim for 3–6 months of preparation for the FE and 4–6 months for the PE, depending on experience.
Resources: Gather the official NCEES practice exams, recommended textbooks, and allowed reference materials.
Weekly Goals: Break content into manageable weekly sections, including time for review and practice tests.

5. Practice Under Exam Conditions

Simulate the full exam with timed practice sessions to develop stamina and pacing.
Use only the approved calculator models and become proficient with their functions.

6. Budget for Costs

Account for registration fees, study materials, and optional prep courses.
Check if your employer offers reimbursement or professional development funds.

7. Final Preparation

Review the NCEES Examinee Guide for rules on identification, permitted items, and arrival times.
Plan travel logistics early if your testing center is out of town.

8. Day of the Exam

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow for check-in and security procedures.
Bring required identification and approved materials only.

9. After the Exam

Results typically arrive within 7–10 days for computer-based exams and several weeks for paper-based PE disciplines.
If you pass, follow your state board’s instructions to obtain Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or full PE licensure.
If you do not pass, carefully review the diagnostic report and begin planning for a retake in accordance with your state board’s rules.

This checklist streamlines the path from initial eligibility to licensure and can be adapted whether you are attempting the FE, the PE, or both.

Conclusion: Navigating FE and PE Exam Retakes

Earning your FE and PE licensure is a critical step in an engineering career, offering expanded opportunities, leadership roles, and higher earning potential. Understanding retake limits, state-specific rules, and associated costs is essential to plan effectively and avoiding delays.

NCEES allows one attempt per testing window and up to three attempts within 12 months, while state boards may add waiting periods or require additional documentation for repeated failures. Careful preparation, structured study plans, and proper budgeting increase the likelihood of first-time success and minimize the need for multiple attempts.

With a clear understanding of the rules and disciplined preparation, passing the FE and PE exams becomes a manageable and achievable goal, setting the stage for a successful engineering career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many times can I take the FE exam?

The FE exam can generally be attempted once per testing window, with a maximum of three attempts in 12 months according to NCEES guidelines. Some state boards may impose stricter limits or require additional documentation after multiple failures. Always confirm your specific state board’s policy before scheduling a retake.

2. How many times can I take the PE exam?

The PE exam follows a similar framework: candidates are allowed one attempt per testing window and up to three attempts within a rolling 12-month period. Certain states may require remedial courses, additional engineering experience, or extended waiting periods after repeated unsuccessful attempts.

3. What happens if I fail multiple times?

Failing an exam does not disqualify you permanently, but repeated failures may trigger additional requirements. These can include waiting periods, proof of additional study or experience, or state board review before permitting another attempt. Planning your preparation carefully and using diagnostic feedback effectively can help minimize repeated failures.

4. Are there costs associated with multiple attempts?

Yes. Each FE exam attempt costs around $175, while PE exams typically range from $375–$400, depending on discipline and state fees. Additional costs may include prep courses, textbooks, reference materials, travel, and time off work. Budgeting for multiple attempts is crucial to avoid financial strain.

5. How can I maximize my chances of passing on the first attempt?

Start early: Begin preparation months before the exam.
Use quality resources: Official NCEES practice exams, review courses, and discipline-specific references are key.
Simulate exam conditions: Timed practice tests improve pacing and endurance.
Analyze weak areas: For repeat attempts, use the diagnostic report to focus the study on low-scoring topics.
Plan logistics: Register early, confirm allowed materials, and manage work-life balance to reduce stress.