Best Resources for EIT Certification After the FE Exam

Earning the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is the essential next step after passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam for anyone pursuing a Professional Engineer (PE) license. The EIT credential confirms that you’ve met the educational and testing requirements set by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and are now on the path toward full licensure.

While the FE exam itself has a national first-time pass rate of roughly 65 % to 73 % depending on discipline, the process doesn’t end with a passing score. Each U.S. state board has unique application procedures, documentation requirements, and continuing education expectations before you can officially call yourself an EIT. Understanding these steps—and the best resources available—can save months of delays and unnecessary costs.

This guide highlights the most effective resources to help you move smoothly from FE success to EIT certification. You’ll discover reputable state board links, professional organizations, and study materials that simplify paperwork, keep you compliant, and set you up for the PE exam.

Key Takeaways

Know the process: EIT certification requirements vary by state. Early research into your state board’s guidelines can prevent application setbacks.
Use trusted resources: Reliable references like the NCEES website and your state licensing board provide official instructions and forms.
Plan for the PE exam: The EIT is a stepping stone to full licensure. Start collecting engineering experience hours and professional references now.
Leverage professional networks: Organizations such as NSPE and local engineering societies offer mentorship and study groups.
Stay organized: Keep transcripts, FE exam proof, and employment records ready to avoid processing delays.

With the right strategy and tools, the transition from FE pass to EIT certification can be straightforward and efficient. This article explores the best resources to guide you through every stage of that journey.

Understanding the EIT Pathway and Requirements

Before diving into the best resources for Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, it helps to understand the overall process. Although the steps are similar across the United States, each state licensing board sets its own rules for applications, fees, and documentation. Knowing these fundamentals will help you choose resources that fit your situation and avoid common delays.

1. Complete an ABET-Accredited Engineering Degree

Most state boards require a bachelor’s degree in engineering from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). You can confirm accreditation status on the ABET program search page.

Why it matters: An ABET-accredited degree assures the board that your education meets national engineering standards.
Exceptions: Some states allow alternative pathways (e.g., extensive work experience or non-ABET degrees), but with additional requirements such as extra years of documented engineering practice.

2. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam

The FE exam, administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), tests your grasp of undergraduate engineering principles.

Exam details: Computer-based, 110 questions, 6 hours.
Pass rates: According to NCEES data, recent first-time pass rates range from 65 % to 73 % depending on discipline.
Timing: Many candidates take the exam during their final year of college or shortly after graduation for the best retention of coursework.

3. Apply to Your State Licensing Board

After passing the FE exam, you must apply to your state board for EIT (sometimes called Engineer Intern, or EI) certification.

State-by-state requirements: Every jurisdiction differs. For example, California requires a separate application and fee, while Texas automatically grants EIT status once NCEES sends exam results.
What to prepare: Official transcripts, proof of FE results, application fee (often $50–$150), and occasionally references or work documentation.
Helpful resource: Start with the NCEES licensing board directory to find your state’s exact instructions.

4. Maintain Your EIT Status

While the EIT credential does not expire in many states, some jurisdictions require periodic renewal or continuing education hours.

Example: New York requires a triennial renewal fee and updated contact information.
Tip: Track your board’s renewal notices to avoid lapses that could complicate your eventual PE application.

5. Gain Qualifying Engineering Experience

EIT certification is the gateway to the Professional Engineer exam. Most states mandate four years of progressive engineering experience under the supervision of a licensed PE.

Documentation: Keep detailed records of projects, responsibilities, and supervising PE information to simplify the PE application later.
Professional development: Joining organizations like the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) can help you network and find mentorship.

Why Understanding the Pathway Matters

Many candidates focus solely on passing the FE exam and then discover unexpected hurdles when applying for EIT certification. By mapping out these requirements early, you can:

Avoid extra fees and delays caused by incomplete applications.
Start collecting the right experience and references from your first engineering job.
Choose study and professional resources that align with your state’s specific criteria.

Top Study and Reference Resources for EIT Certification

Once you have passed the FE exam and understand your state’s requirements, the next step is gathering reliable study and reference materials. Even though you’ve already cleared the FE hurdle, continuing education and resource planning will make the EIT application—and eventual PE exam—much easier. Below are some of the most trusted options, grouped by type, with direct links where possible.

1. Official NCEES Resources

The NCEES remains the central authority for both FE and PE licensure. Its tools and documents help you maintain records, prepare for future exams, and track your professional experience.

MyNCEES Account: Your exam results, transcripts, and verification details are stored here for easy transfer to state boards.
Experience Record Templates: Useful for logging qualifying engineering work toward the PE.
Official Exam Specifications: Even after the FE, these provide a blueprint for long-term study habits.

2. Comprehensive Reference Books

While you may have used these for the FE exam, keeping them at hand supports ongoing professional development.

FE Review Manual by Michael R. Lindeburg, PE (Amazon): A classic reference covering core engineering topics; helpful for refreshing fundamentals before the PE exam.
Engineer’s Guide to Professional Licensure by NSPE: Offers state-specific application guidance and professional practice insights.
Engineering Ethics: Concepts and Cases by Charles E. Harris et al.: Many states emphasize ethics in their EIT/PE applications.

3. Online Learning Platforms

Flexible online courses can help you stay current in engineering fundamentals and prepare for continuing education requirements.

Coursera & edX Engineering Programs: Universities like MIT and Stanford offer free or low-cost courses on structural analysis, thermodynamics, and more.
School of PE (schoolofpe.com): Known for FE and PE prep but valuable for EITs who want to keep their skills sharp.
LinkedIn Learning: Offers targeted technical and project-management courses that count toward professional development hours in some states.

4. Professional Organizations and Societies

Membership in professional engineering societies provides mentorship, networking, and often discounted prep resources.

National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) (nspe.org): Provides detailed licensure guidance and continuing education webinars.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) (asce.org): Ideal for civil engineers seeking local chapter support and technical resources.
IEEE (ieee.org): Essential for electrical and computer engineers looking to stay ahead of new standards and technology.

5. State Licensing Board Websites

Because every state sets unique application rules, your state board is the most authoritative source for EIT certification instructions.

Use the NCEES state board directory to locate official portals.
Many boards provide downloadable checklists, application deadlines, and fee schedules.
Some, like the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, offer FAQs and online submission to streamline the process.

6. Engineering Experience Trackers

Documenting qualifying work is crucial for the PE application.

Engineering Log Books: Simple bound notebooks or digital spreadsheets to record duties, projects, and PE supervisors.
NCEES Record Service: A verified digital experience record that can be transmitted to multiple boards, saving time when you apply for your PE license.

7. Mentorship and Peer Support

Local Engineering Meetups: Platforms like Meetup.com often feature groups dedicated to FE/EIT/PE support.
University Alumni Networks: Many engineering programs run active LinkedIn groups where alumni share advice on EIT applications and career advancement.
Reddit’s r/FE_Exam Community (reddit.com/r/FE_Exam): Informal but surprisingly helpful for real-world tips.

Why These Resources Matter

The EIT application may look simple on paper, but missing transcripts, outdated contact information, or poorly documented experience can delay your certification. By using these study and reference tools early, you:

Stay updated on evolving engineering standards.
Accumulate professional development hours ahead of schedule.
Build a network of mentors and supervisors for your PE application.

Navigating State-Specific Requirements

While the general steps to obtain Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification are similar nationwide, each U.S. licensing board sets its own rules for applications, fees, renewals, and documentation. Understanding these differences early will save you time and help you choose the right resources.

1. Locate Your State Board

Start with the NCEES licensing board directory to find the official portal for your jurisdiction. Each site provides application forms, fee schedules, and contact details.

Tip: Bookmark the page and subscribe to any email updates. Boards frequently adjust fees or add new documentation requirements.

2. Understand Naming Differences

Some states call the credential Engineer-in-Training (EIT), others use Engineer Intern (EI). They are equivalent, but it is important to use the correct term on forms to avoid processing delays.

3. Key Variations by State

State Example	Unique Requirement	Approx. Fee*
California	Requires a separate EIT application after FE results; mailed transcripts are mandatory.	$75
Texas	Automatically grants EIT once NCEES transmits FE results; no separate application.	$0
New York	Requires triennial renewal and continuing education hours.	$70
Florida	Offers a combined FE/EIT application portal with online submission.	$100
Illinois	Requires two references from licensed PEs.	$100

*Fees current as of 2025; check board websites for updates.

4. Documentation to Prepare

Most boards ask for:

Official transcripts showing an ABET-accredited degree.
Proof of FE results from NCEES.
Application form and fee (credit card or check).
Photo ID and sometimes references from PEs or supervisors.

Having these ready—ideally in both digital and paper format—prevents mailing delays.

5. Renewal and Continuing Education

Even though many states issue a lifetime EIT credential, others require renewal. Examples include:

New York: Renewal every three years with a continuing education affidavit.
Delaware: Biennial renewal with a nominal fee.

Track renewal dates the same way you would for professional certifications to avoid lapses.

6. Reciprocity Considerations

If you plan to work across multiple states:

NCEES Record Service allows you to transmit verified transcripts, exam results, and experience records to any participating board.
Some states honor EIT certification from another state, but others require a short application or fee.

7. Staying Current

Regulations can change without much notice. Reliable ways to stay informed:

Subscribe to your state board’s newsletter.
Follow the board on LinkedIn or X (formerly Twitter).
Join professional organizations such as the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) for legislative and regulatory updates.

Why State Guidance Matters

Many EIT candidates lose weeks—sometimes months—because of incomplete applications or outdated instructions. By identifying and following your state’s requirements early, you:

Avoid costly resubmissions or missed deadlines.
Know whether additional references, renewals, or fees apply.
Build a clean record for your eventual Professional Engineer (PE) application.

Career Development and Experience Tracking for the PE Pathway

Securing the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) credential is only the midpoint on your journey to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Most states require four years of progressive engineering experience under the supervision of a licensed PE before you can even apply for the PE exam. The sooner you begin planning this stage, the smoother your transition will be.

1. Understand “Progressive Engineering Experience”

State boards generally expect your work to show increasing levels of responsibility and technical complexity over time. This doesn’t simply mean four years on the job—it means four years of growth.

Examples of qualifying tasks:
- Designing or analyzing systems or structures.
- Managing engineering projects from concept through completion.
- Performing calculations and preparing technical reports reviewed by a PE.
Non-qualifying tasks: Purely administrative work or routine drafting without engineering judgment.

2. Find a Licensed PE Supervisor or Mentor

A licensed PE must typically verify your experience.

Seek supervision early: At job interviews, ask whether projects are PE-supervised and if mentors are available.
Professional societies: Groups like the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) or discipline-specific societies (e.g., ASME for mechanical engineers) offer mentorship programs.

3. Track Your Work Diligently

Accurate records are essential when you submit your PE application.

Monthly Logs: Record project names, dates, responsibilities, and the supervising PE’s license number.
NCEES Record Service: This optional but powerful service keeps verified experience, transcripts, and references in a digital vault for easy transmission to multiple state boards.
Supporting Evidence: Keep copies of design calculations, reports, and project summaries whenever possible.

4. Gain Breadth and Depth

States want evidence that you can handle diverse engineering challenges. Aim for:

Breadth: Exposure to multiple project types or disciplines.
Depth: Deep technical involvement in at least one specialty area.

Rotational programs or multi-disciplinary projects can provide this mix.

5. Continue Professional Development

Many boards require Professional Development Hours (PDHs) or continuing education before or after you obtain the PE license. Start early by:

Attending workshops, webinars, or conferences offered by NSPE or discipline-specific organizations.
Completing online courses from Coursera or edX that offer PDH certificates.
Participating in employer-sponsored training.

6. Build Your Professional Network

Strong references and mentorship often come from your network.

Local Chapter Meetings: Attend monthly or quarterly events of engineering societies.
University Alumni Groups: Join LinkedIn alumni networks for your engineering department.
Conferences: National events like ASCE’s Annual Civil Engineering Conference or IEEE’s regional meetings help you stay current and meet potential references.

7. Prepare for the PE Exam Early

Even if the PE exam is years away, early preparation pays off.

Refresh Fundamentals: Revisit FE review materials annually.
Identify Specialization: Choose the PE discipline (civil, electrical, mechanical, etc.) that aligns with your career path.
Budgeting: The PE exam fee is typically $375–$400, plus state application costs.

Why Career Development Planning Matters

By documenting your work and developing a strong professional network from day one, you avoid the frantic scramble that often occurs when engineers approach the PE application deadline. Consistent record-keeping and continuing education also enhance your credibility in the workplace and make you more competitive for promotions.

Long-Term Development and Continuing Education Resources

Once you have your EIT certification and begin logging qualifying work experience, it’s important to think long-term. Many engineers make the mistake of waiting until they’re close to applying for the PE exam to gather professional development hours (PDHs), continuing education, and references. In reality, building these steadily throughout your EIT years makes the transition much smoother.

1. Continuing Education Requirements

Not all states require EITs to complete PDHs, but many mandate them once you’re licensed as a PE. Getting into the habit early ensures you don’t fall behind.

NSPE Webinars: The National Society of Professional Engineers offers affordable PDH-certified online courses.
PDH Online & PDH Academy: Dedicated providers of engineering-specific continuing education that meet board standards.
University Extension Programs: Many engineering schools (e.g., MIT OpenCourseWare) allow free access to graduate-level material, some of which can count toward PDH credit.

2. Professional Development Hours (PDHs) Tracking

Boards often require 15–30 PDHs annually for PEs. Tracking them during your EIT stage keeps you disciplined.

Digital Tracking Tools: Apps like PDHengineer’s tracking system help you log hours and generate compliance certificates.
Excel Spreadsheets: A simple but effective way to note date, course title, provider, and credit earned.

3. Technical Skill Development

Engineering constantly evolves, and expanding your skills helps your career while satisfying continuing education.

Software Mastery: Tools like AutoCAD, MATLAB, SolidWorks, and project management software are often required in modern engineering roles.
Specialized Certifications: Consider pursuing certifications in project management (PMP), building information modeling (BIM), or Six Sigma. Many of these can double as PDH credits.

4. Professional Organizations and Networking

Long-term membership in engineering organizations not only provides continuing education but also connects you with mentors, peers, and potential references.

ASCE, IEEE, ASME, AIChE, and Other Discipline-Specific Societies: Offer technical journals, conferences, and local chapter events.
Engineering Conferences: Attending at least one major conference per year builds credibility and often provides 10–20 PDHs.
Mentorship Programs: Many societies pair EITs with experienced PEs who can guide both professional and personal growth.

5. Publishing and Presenting

Boards often count professional presentations, conference papers, or published journal articles as PDHs. Beyond compliance, these establish you as a thought leader.

Conference Presentations: Submit abstracts to ASCE, IEEE, or similar groups.
Technical Articles: Consider publishing in trade magazines or professional journals.

6. Leadership and Soft Skills Training

EITs sometimes overlook non-technical skills, but leadership training is critical to career advancement.

Project Management: Courses from PMI or LinkedIn Learning count toward PDHs and enhance your managerial credibility.
Communication Skills: Public speaking and technical writing workshops improve your effectiveness as an engineer.

7. Long-Term Career Strategy

Think of the EIT years as preparation for both your PE application and broader career growth.

Five-Year Plan: Map when you will gain certain types of experience (design, project management, supervision).
Supervisor Relationships: Cultivate strong connections with supervising PEs early so they will be willing to serve as references later.
Job Mobility: Be open to rotating through roles that provide the diverse experience boards expect.

Why Continuing Development Matters

Maintaining professional momentum during your EIT years means you’re not just waiting to take the PE exam—you’re actively building a stronger, more competitive career. By combining technical growth, PDHs, and networking, you’ll be fully prepared when it’s time to sit for the PE exam and beyond.

Resources Checklist and Action Plan

This section brings everything together into a clear roadmap. Follow these steps to move from passing the FE exam to earning your EIT certification and positioning yourself for the PE license.

1. Confirm Eligibility

Verify your engineering degree is ABET-accredited using the ABET program search.
Review your state board’s requirements through the NCEES directory.
Note whether your state uses the term Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) and record the application fee.

2. Secure FE Exam Records

Log in to your MyNCEES account to download proof of FE exam results.
Order official transcripts if required by your state board.
Keep digital and paper copies of all records as backups.

3. Apply for EIT Certification

Complete the state application form online or by mail.
Pay the application fee, typically between $50 and $150.
Submit all required documents: FE results, transcripts, identification, and references if needed.
Track application status through the board portal or by contacting the licensing office.

4. Maintain and Track Credentials

If your state requires renewal, set calendar reminders for the correct interval.
Store all documents—applications, receipts, and correspondence—in a secure folder.
Subscribe to your state board’s email updates to stay aware of policy changes.

5. Gain and Document Engineering Experience

Work under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer.
Keep monthly logs of projects, duties, and your supervisor’s license number.
Use the NCEES Record Service to store verified experience records.
Seek diverse projects to demonstrate both technical breadth and increasing responsibility.

6. Continue Professional Development

Join at least one professional society such as NSPE, ASCE, or IEEE.
Attend annual conferences, workshops, or webinars to earn Professional Development Hours (PDHs).
Track PDHs in a spreadsheet or through a dedicated PDH-tracking application.
Take advantage of online learning resources like the School of PE or Coursera.

7. Build a Long-Term Career Strategy

Identify a likely PE discipline early, such as civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering.
Map a five-year plan to gain the variety of experience your board requires.
Maintain strong relationships with supervisors who can provide references.
Strengthen leadership, communication, and project management skills through courses or workshops.

8. Prepare for the PE Exam in Advance

Refresh engineering fundamentals regularly with trusted references such as Lindeburg’s FE Review Manual.
Accumulate PDHs and continuing education credits steadily.
Monitor NCEES exam specifications for updates.
Budget for the PE exam fee, generally $375–$400, plus any additional state charges.

Why This Checklist Matters

Following this structured plan minimizes the chance of missed deadlines or incomplete documentation and keeps your career progression aligned with licensing requirements. It also ensures you build the professional experience and development hours necessary for a successful PE application.

Conclusion: Building a Strong Path from FE to EIT and Beyond

Earning the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification after passing the FE exam is more than just a formality—it is the bridge between academic preparation and full professional licensure. While the process may appear straightforward, each step requires careful planning, from understanding state-specific requirements to documenting your engineering experience and accumulating professional development hours.

The best way to succeed is to treat your EIT years as an investment. By using authoritative resources such as the NCEES licensing board directory, maintaining detailed experience logs, and engaging with professional organizations like NSPE, you not only meet board requirements but also strengthen your technical, managerial, and ethical foundation as an engineer.

The journey does not end with EIT certification—it continues toward the Professional Engineer (PE) license. Consistent preparation, networking, and lifelong learning will ensure you are ready to take the PE exam and advance as a trusted professional in your field.

In short, your EIT credential is both a milestone and a starting point. With the right resources and a proactive approach, you will not only earn your certification but also build a career that stands out in the engineering profession.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between an EIT and a PE?

An Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) has passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and met initial licensing requirements but is not yet fully licensed. A Professional Engineer (PE) has completed the EIT stage, gained the required experience, and passed the PE exam, allowing them to sign and seal engineering plans and take legal responsibility for engineering work.

2. How long does it take to receive EIT certification after passing the FE exam?

Processing times vary by state. Most state boards issue the EIT certificate within 4–8 weeks of receiving a complete application, though some may take longer if additional documentation or verification is required. Always check your specific board’s timeline on the NCEES licensing board directory.

3. Do I need an EIT certificate to gain engineering experience toward the PE license?

Not always. Some states allow you to begin accumulating qualifying experience once you pass the FE exam and hold an engineering degree. However, many employers prefer the formal EIT credential because it confirms that you are on the path to becoming a licensed PE. Verify your state’s rules before starting your experience log.

4. Is the EIT certificate valid nationwide?

The EIT credential is recognized across the United States, but it is issued by the state board where you applied. If you move, you may need to apply for certification or recognition in your new state. The NCEES record service can simplify transferring your credentials to another jurisdiction.

5. How should I maintain my EIT status if my state requires renewal?

Most states do not require renewal, but those that do often have a 2- to 4-year renewal cycle with a modest fee. Check your board’s policy and set reminders for renewal deadlines. Keeping your contact information updated with your state board ensures you receive notifications about any changes in requirements.