FE Exam for Mechanical Engineers: Topics & Study Plan

For anyone planning a career in mechanical engineering, the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam is a turning point. Passing it is the first formal step toward a Professional Engineer (PE) license in the United States, and it proves that you have a solid grasp of the core principles you studied in school.

The FE Mechanical exam is computer–based, six hours long, and packed with 110 questions that cover everything from mathematics and materials science to thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. While the scope can feel overwhelming, recent data from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) shows that about 73% of first-time test takers who sit for the exam within a year of graduation succeed. This means good preparation—done early—can make all the difference.

This guide breaks the process into manageable steps. You will see what topics matter most, how to create a study plan that fits your schedule, and where to find the most reliable resources. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to approach the exam with a clear plan and confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Purpose of the FE Exam: The FE is required for anyone who wants to become a licensed Professional Engineer in the U.S. and is usually taken near the end of an accredited engineering degree.
• Exam Format: Six-hour computer-based test with 110 multiple-choice questions drawn from mathematics, engineering sciences, and core mechanical topics.
• Current Pass Rates: About 73% of first-time mechanical engineering candidates pass when they test within a year of graduation.
• Why Timing Matters: Sitting for the exam soon after finishing your degree helps keep key concepts fresh.
• Focus of This Guide: Detailed topic breakdown, a practical study schedule, proven prep strategies, and up-to-date resources to help you succeed.

FE Mechanical Exam Topics

The FE Mechanical exam checks whether you understand the main ideas behind mechanical engineering. It is not about memorizing every formula; it is about knowing how to use the core principles you learned in school. The questions come from many areas, but each follows the official NCEES exam specifications.

Below is a plain-language map of the key topic areas and how much of the test each usually covers. These percentages are based on the current NCEES outline, so you can see where to spend more study time.

Topic Area	Approx. Share of Exam	What It Covers in Simple Terms
Mathematics & Probability	~12%	Algebra, calculus, basic statistics, probability.
Engineering Sciences	~8%	Statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials.
Fluid Mechanics & Thermodynamics	~18%	Flow of liquids and gases, energy transfer, heat engines.
Heat Transfer	~9%	Conduction, convection, radiation, cooling and heating systems.
Mechanical Design & Materials	~12%	Strength of materials, machine elements, failure analysis.
Electrical & Instrumentation	~7%	Basic circuits, measurement tools, simple control systems.
Economics & Ethics	~5%	Engineering costs, project economics, professional responsibility.
Other Core Topics	~29%	Computer skills, safety, environmental issues, and general engineering knowledge.

How These Topics Are Tested

• Concept Over Memorization: Problems are set up to see if you can reason through a situation, not just recall a formula.
• Mix of Easy and Tough: Some questions are quick calculations; others require several steps and judgment.
• Reference Handbook Use: You are given the official NCEES FE Reference Handbook during the test. It contains formulas and data, so knowing how to navigate it saves time.

Where to Begin

Start with the areas where you feel weakest. If, for example, heat transfer was a small part of your coursework, give it extra attention. Many successful test takers keep a simple checklist of all the topic areas and mark them off as they review and practice problems.

Study Plan for the FE Mechanical Exam

Preparing for the FE Mechanical exam is a long project, but it can be managed if you follow a clear routine. The goal is to spread your work over several weeks, revisit each topic more than once, and keep track of progress. Below is a detailed plan that you can adapt to fit your own schedule.

1. Set a Realistic Timeline

A steady schedule matters more than long study days.

• Ideal Length: Give yourself about 12 weeks. This is long enough to cover every topic, run through practice problems, and take several timed tests.
• Weekly Hours: Plan for 8–12 hours per week if you have three months. If you need to finish in 6–8 weeks, raise that to 15–20 hours each week.
• Daily Blocks: Break each day into sessions of 60–90 minutes with short breaks. Two shorter sessions per day are easier to sustain than one long stretch.

Mark your actual exam date on a calendar. Count backward to see how many weeks you have, then fill in the plan below.

2. Gather Essential Materials

You only need a few key tools, but each is critical:

1. NCEES FE Reference Handbook
   • This is the only reference you will have during the exam. Download it for free from NCEES.
   • Skim through it now. Learn where formulas and tables are located. Fast navigation will save minutes on test day.
2. Practice Problems
   • Start with the official NCEES practice exam. It mirrors the format and difficulty of the real test.
   • Add a well-reviewed prep book or an online course for extra question sets. Choose one that includes detailed solutions, not just answers.
3. Approved Calculator
   • Only specific models are allowed. Check the current list on the NCEES site and practice with that exact model to avoid surprises.
4. Study Journal or Digital Tracker
   • Use a notebook or spreadsheet to record study hours, topics completed, and problem areas. Seeing your progress keeps motivation high.

3. Organize Topics by Week

Divide the official NCEES topic areas into weekly blocks. Below is a 12-week schedule that covers every subject and allows time for review.

Week	Main Focus	Key Goals
1–2	Mathematics & Probability	Review algebra, calculus, statistics, and probability. Work on quick calculations and error checking.
3–4	Engineering Sciences	Cover statics, dynamics, and mechanics of materials. Emphasize free-body diagrams and equilibrium concepts.
5–6	Fluid Mechanics & Thermodynamics	Study fluid properties, Bernoulli’s equation, energy balances, and cycles for engines and refrigeration.
7	Heat Transfer	Practice conduction, convection, and radiation. Include composite wall problems and heat exchanger calculations.
8–9	Mechanical Design & Materials	Explore stress analysis, fatigue, machine elements, gears, bearings, and material selection.
10	Electrical & Instrumentation	Refresh basics of circuits, instrumentation, sensors, and simple control systems.
11	Economics, Ethics, and General Engineering	Learn cost analysis, project economics, professional ethics, safety codes, and environmental considerations.
12	Comprehensive Review	Take full practice exams, revisit weak areas, and fine-tune time management.

If you have less than 12 weeks, combine related topics—for example, pair Heat Transfer with Mechanical Design—or double up on study hours.

4. Daily Study Routine

A predictable daily rhythm keeps energy steady and builds habits:

1. Warm-Up (15 minutes)
   • Quick review of formulas or flashcards.
   • Skim a few reference handbook pages to sharpen memory of where key data is located.
2. Core Study Block (60–90 minutes)
   • Work through new material or practice problems for the week’s topic.
   • Focus on understanding steps, not just final answers.
3. Handbook Navigation Drill (15 minutes)
   • Pick random formulas or tables and locate them in the reference handbook as fast as possible.
   • Aim to find any formula within 20–30 seconds.
4. Wrap-Up (15 minutes)
   • Write a short note on what you mastered and what needs more work.
   • List any formulas or concepts that still feel unclear.

Repeat these sessions 4–5 days per week. Reserve one day for a lighter review or rest.

5. Full-Length Practice Exams

Simulated exams are the best way to build speed and stamina.

• First Full Test: Take it around week 8 or 9. Sit for the full six hours, including the planned break.
• Second Full Test: Schedule it in week 11 or early week 12 to measure progress.
• After each test, carefully analyze wrong answers. Track whether mistakes came from weak concepts, calculation slips, or slow handbook searches.

If possible, review problems you got right as well—sometimes a correct answer hides shaky reasoning.

6. Final Two Weeks

The last stretch is for sharpening, not learning new topics.

• Revisit every weak area found in practice tests.
• Work on short, targeted problem sets each day.
• Continue daily handbook drills so formula locations feel automatic.
• Practice using the calculator quickly and accurately.
• Get consistent sleep to keep focus sharp.

7. Extra Strategies for Success

• Group Review: Even one or two sessions with classmates can help explain difficult topics and expose blind spots.
• Screen Practice: Because the exam is computer-based, do some practice problems on a laptop or tablet to mimic the real format.
• Healthy Routine: Balanced meals, water, and regular exercise improve concentration more than late-night study marathons.
• Time Awareness: During practice exams, check progress every 30 questions. Aim to finish a first pass with at least 45 minutes left for review.

Putting It All Together

This plan lets you cover every topic, practice at least two full exams, and build the speed and confidence needed for test day. By following steady weekly goals, you avoid the stress of last-minute cramming and walk into the exam with a clear head and a strong grasp of the material.

Test-Day Strategies and Practical Tips

A strong study routine prepares you for the material, but how you handle the actual exam day can be just as important. The FE Mechanical is a six-hour computer-based test that demands both mental focus and smart time management. Below is a detailed guide covering every stage—from the night before to the final question.

1. The Night Before

Finalize Your Materials

• ID and Confirmation: Pack a valid government ID and your NCEES confirmation email or printout. Check the name matches exactly.
• Calculator: Bring only an NCEES-approved model, with spare batteries if possible.
• Snacks and Water: You may leave them in a locker for the scheduled break. Choose simple foods (nuts, fruit, granola) to avoid a sugar crash.

Set Your Body Clock

• Eat a balanced dinner with complex carbs and protein—think brown rice with vegetables or whole-grain pasta.
• Avoid excess caffeine or alcohol. Both can disrupt sleep.
• Aim for 7–8 hours of rest. A clear head is more valuable than one more hour of review.

2. Morning of the Exam

Early Start

• Wake up at least two hours before the exam to give yourself time to fully wake.
• Eat a steady breakfast with protein and slow-release carbs, such as oatmeal with fruit or eggs with whole-grain toast.

Arrival Window

• Plan to reach the test center 30–45 minutes early. This cushion protects you from traffic delays and allows time to store personal items in the provided lockers.

3. At the Test Center

Check-In

• Present your ID and follow security instructions.
• Fingerprint or palm-vein scans are common. Cooperate calmly to avoid stress.

Locker Use

• Phones, watches, and personal bags stay locked away. Only your calculator, ID, and locker key remain with you.

4. Understanding the Exam Structure

The six-hour block includes:

• Tutorial and Agreement: About 8 minutes.
• Exam Questions: 110 multiple-choice questions.
• Scheduled Break: 25 minutes halfway through.
• Optional Review: Any remaining time.

You can flag questions to revisit, but the clock does not stop when you do.

5. Time Management During the Exam

First Pass Strategy

• Aim to complete your first pass of all questions in about 3.5–4 hours.
• For any question that stalls you for more than 90 seconds, flag it and move on.

Break Discipline

• Take the 25-minute break even if you feel energetic. Eat a light snack and stretch.
• Avoid heavy food that could make you sluggish.

Second Pass

• Use the remaining 2 hours for flagged questions and a final review.
• If unsure on a question after a second look, make your best educated guess. There is no penalty for wrong answers.

6. Using the NCEES Reference Handbook Effectively

• Know the Layout: Before the exam, practice finding sections like Thermodynamics or Materials Properties quickly.
• Keyword Search: The computer version has a search function. Type short, specific terms (“Bernoulli,” “fatigue limit”) to locate formulas fast.
• Highlight Concepts in Mind: You can’t mark the digital handbook, but mental bookmarks help. Remember page numbers or table titles you use often.

7. Calculator Mastery

• Learn every function of your approved calculator: solving equations, storing constants, unit conversions, and quick backspacing.
• Practice speed drills so these actions feel automatic.
• Bring spare batteries if the model allows a quick swap.

8. Mental and Physical Focus

• Breathing Technique: If anxiety rises, pause for three slow breaths—inhale for four counts, hold for one, exhale for five.
• Micro-Breaks: After every 20–25 questions, roll your shoulders and stretch your hands for 15 seconds to maintain circulation.
• Positive Cues: Remind yourself that you have prepared steadily; a calm mindset improves recall.

9. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Over-Spending Time on One Problem: One stubborn question can derail the schedule. Flag it and return later.
• Neglecting Easy Points: Scan for straightforward math or unit-conversion problems first; they build confidence and secure early marks.
• Misreading Units: Double-check whether the question wants SI or U.S. customary units. Many mistakes come from missed unit conversions.

10. After the Exam

• Results are typically released within 7–10 days through your NCEES account.
• If you pass, download and save the official confirmation for future licensure steps.
• If you need to retake, review your study journal to identify consistent weaknesses and plan a shorter, targeted study cycle.

Putting It All Together

A careful exam-day routine protects the hard work you invested during study weeks. By preparing your materials the night before, arriving early, pacing yourself through the 110 questions, and using the NCEES handbook with confidence, you give yourself the best chance to perform at your true ability. Consistent practice and calm execution turn preparation into success.

Recommended Resources and Prep Tools for the FE Mechanical Exam

Strong preparation depends on the quality of the materials you use. While it is possible to pass with only the official NCEES reference handbook and practice exam, most successful candidates build a small library of trusted resources and a plan for how to use them. Below is a thorough guide to books, digital tools, courses, and study aids, along with ways to get the most value from each.

1. Core Official Materials

NCEES FE Reference Handbook

• Why It Matters: This is the only reference allowed during the exam and contains all the formulas, tables, and constants you might need.
• How to Use It:
  • Download the latest edition free from NCEES.
  • Print selected pages for offline review or create a searchable PDF on a tablet for quick drills.
  • Spend a few minutes each study session locating random formulas so that navigation becomes second nature.

NCEES Practice Exam (Mechanical)

• Format: Full-length, 110-question exam that mirrors actual difficulty and computer-based format.
• Best Practice: Take it under timed conditions twice: once midway through your study plan to identify weak spots and again two weeks before test day to measure progress.

2. Comprehensive Prep Books

Several publishers produce detailed review manuals with thousands of problems. These are not official NCEES products but are widely used.

• FE Mechanical Review Manual by Michael R. Lindeburg, PE
  • Covers every NCEES topic with step-by-step solutions.
  • Includes hundreds of example problems that reinforce fundamentals.
  • Ideal for structured weekly study because chapters align well with the exam specification.
• FE Mechanical Practice Problems by Michael R. Lindeburg, PE
  • Companion volume with hundreds of standalone practice questions.
  • Useful for short daily sessions or targeted topic reviews.
• Mechanical Engineering FE Sample Questions and Solutions (by PPI)
  • Slightly more concise than the Review Manual but offers realistic question formats.
  • Good for quick refresher sessions once core studying is done.

Tip: Buy used or digital copies if cost is an issue. The content remains useful across editions as long as you confirm coverage matches the current NCEES specification.

3. Online Courses and Platforms

Digital courses can provide structure, especially for those who prefer guided instruction.

• School of PE (FE Mechanical)
  • Live and on-demand video lectures, weekly homework, and instructor Q&A.
  • Strong for those who like classroom pacing and scheduled deadlines.
• PPI2Pass OnDemand
  • Self-paced videos, quizzes, and practice exams.
  • Includes performance tracking to highlight weak areas.
• Coursera / edX Mechanical Engineering Refreshers
  • Not FE-specific but valuable for reviewing individual subjects like thermodynamics or fluid mechanics.
  • Use these to reinforce theory before diving into exam-style problems.

4. Digital Study Tools

• FE Exam Apps (iOS/Android)
  • Apps such as “FE Mechanical Practice” provide small sets of timed questions for on-the-go practice.
  • Useful for squeezing in 10–15 minute problem sessions during commutes or breaks.
• Flashcards
  • Create custom cards using Anki or Quizlet for formulas, units, and definitions.
  • Spaced repetition ensures long-term retention.
• Spreadsheets and Trackers
  • A simple Excel or Google Sheet can track study hours, topic completion, and practice test scores.
  • Color-coding weak areas gives a clear visual of progress.

5. Supplementary References

Sometimes a deeper explanation helps when you get stuck.

• Fundamentals of Thermodynamics by Sonntag and Borgnakke
  • Clear examples of cycles, energy balances, and properties.
• Mechanics of Materials by Gere
  • Strong for stress, strain, and deformation topics.
• Fluid Mechanics by White
  • Useful if your undergraduate fluid mechanics was light or long ago.

You do not need to read these cover-to-cover. Use them as quick references when a prep-book solution feels too brief.

6. Study Groups and Peer Resources

• University Alumni Groups: Many engineering programs host informal FE study sessions.
• Online Forums: Communities like EngineerBoards and r/FE_Exam on Reddit allow you to share tips and clarify doubts.
• Peer Accountability: Even one study partner can double motivation and help explain difficult problems aloud.

7. How to Build a Personal Resource Plan

A small but well-organized set of materials often works better than buying everything:

1. Foundation: NCEES reference handbook and official practice exam.
2. Main Review: One comprehensive book (such as the Lindeburg manual) or a structured online course.
3. Practice Bank: Extra question sets from a second book or app.
4. Targeted Help: One or two deep reference textbooks for stubborn topics.

Keep all materials in a single study space—physical or digital—to reduce wasted time hunting for files.

8. Cost and Access Considerations

• Budget-Friendly Approach: Borrow textbooks from a library, buy used prep books, and rely on the free NCEES handbook plus official practice exam.
• Time-Rich Approach: If budget allows, add an online course to keep pace and benefit from instructor support.
• Combination: Many candidates start with free or low-cost materials and add a course only if early practice exams reveal weak progress.

9. Putting Resources to Work

• Schedule weekly problem sets and note which resource each question came from to track difficulty levels.
• Mix digital and paper practice to mimic the computer-based exam while still enjoying the benefits of handwritten problem solving.
• Revisit the same problems after a few weeks to confirm retention, not just short-term memory.

Quality preparation comes from a focused set of resources used consistently. The NCEES reference handbook and official practice exam form the foundation. Add a comprehensive review book or an online course for structure, use apps and flashcards for daily drills, and keep a few trusted textbooks for deeper explanations. A carefully chosen toolkit—combined with steady practice and timed full-length exams—will give you the confidence and speed needed to succeed on the FE Mechanical exam.

Licensing Path After the FE Mechanical Exam

Passing the FE Mechanical exam is an essential milestone, but it is only the first step toward becoming a fully licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the United States. Understanding what comes next—how licensing works, what experience you must gain, and how to prepare for the next exam—will help you plan your career and avoid delays. Below is a comprehensive guide to everything that follows after you receive a passing FE result.

1. The Role of the Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT)

Definition

• Once you pass the FE and submit the required application to your state board, you typically receive the title Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT). The name varies by state but the meaning is the same: you have proven fundamental engineering competence and are now on the professional licensing track.

Why It Matters

• Employers recognize the EI/EIT designation as proof of technical proficiency and commitment to professional standards.
• Many engineering firms prefer or require this status before assigning projects that involve public safety or regulatory approval.

Steps to Obtain

1. Apply to Your State Board: After receiving your FE passing notification from NCEES, you submit an application and fee to your state licensing board.
2. Background Check: Some states require fingerprinting or a background review.
3. Certification: You receive an EI or EIT certificate, which you may list on your résumé and professional profiles.

2. Gaining the Required Work Experience

The next major step toward the PE license is professional experience under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer.

• Length: Most states require four years of progressive engineering experience after earning a qualifying degree. Some states allow credit for graduate study (typically up to one year).
• Nature of Work:
  • Must involve engineering analysis, design, and decision-making, not just routine drafting or data collection.
  • Must demonstrate growing responsibility and independent judgment.
• Supervisor Requirements: At least one of your references must be a licensed PE who can verify your work and professional growth.

Best Practices While Gaining Experience

• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of projects, roles, and hours worked. Include project descriptions, calculations performed, and your specific contributions.
• Seek Varied Assignments: Exposure to design, analysis, project management, and client interaction strengthens your application and makes you a better engineer.
• Request Regular Feedback: Meet with your supervising PE to review progress and confirm that your tasks qualify as “progressive engineering experience.”

3. Meeting State-Specific Requirements

Each U.S. state and territory manages its own licensing rules. While the broad steps are similar, details can differ:

• Experience Credit: Some states grant partial credit for advanced degrees (for example, one year for a master’s or PhD).
• Ethics or Law Exam: A number of states require a short, open-book exam on engineering laws and professional conduct.
• Application Timing: Some boards require all experience before you apply for the PE exam, while others allow you to apply and sit for the exam while finishing your final months of experience.

Check your state board’s website early—right after passing the FE—to avoid surprises.

4. Preparing for the PE Mechanical Exam

The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is the next formal test. It measures your ability to apply engineering knowledge in real practice.

Format

• The PE Mechanical exam is computer-based, 8 hours long, and includes 80 questions.
• You choose one of three specializations:
  1. Mechanical: HVAC and Refrigeration
  2. Mechanical: Machine Design and Materials
  3. Mechanical: Thermal and Fluid Systems

Timing

• Most candidates take the PE exam four to five years after graduation, once work-experience requirements are met.
• Some states allow early sitting, but the PE license will not be granted until experience is complete.

Preparation Tips

• Start light review 6–12 months before your intended exam date.
• Use the NCEES PE Mechanical Reference Handbook and the official practice exam to learn the format.
• Draw on your real work experience—many questions relate to practical scenarios.

5. Maintaining Your License

Once you pass the PE exam and your state grants licensure, you must maintain it through continuing education and periodic renewals.

• Renewal Period: Typically every 2 years, though some states use a 1-year or 3-year cycle.
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD):
  • Most boards require 15–30 Professional Development Hours (PDHs) per renewal period.
  • Acceptable activities include attending seminars, completing online courses, publishing technical papers, or teaching engineering classes.
• Record Keeping: Keep certificates or proof of attendance for all PDH activities in case of an audit.

6. Career Advantages of the PE License

Becoming a licensed Professional Engineer offers significant benefits:

• Legal Authority: Only a PE can sign and seal engineering drawings or take legal responsibility for public projects.
• Career Growth: Many senior positions, government roles, and consulting opportunities require or strongly prefer a PE license.
• Higher Earning Potential: Surveys from engineering societies consistently show that licensed PEs earn more on average than non-licensed peers.
• Professional Recognition: The PE title signals adherence to strict ethical and technical standards, enhancing your reputation among clients and colleagues.

7. International Considerations

If you plan to work outside the United States, licensing may still matter:

• Mutual Recognition: Some countries recognize U.S. PE licensure through reciprocity agreements or simplified local registration.
• Additional Requirements: Others require separate exams or documentation, but view the PE as a strong credential.

Research the engineering regulatory body in the country of interest well in advance of relocation.

8. Timeline Summary

A typical path for a mechanical engineer from graduation to full PE licensure might look like this:

Stage	Approx. Time After Graduation	Key Actions
Pass FE Exam	0–1 year	Register with NCEES, apply for EIT certification.
Gain Experience	1–5 years	Work under a licensed PE, document projects, broaden responsibilities.
Apply for PE Exam	4–5 years	Submit application, references, and experience records to state board.
Take PE Exam	4–6 years	Prepare for and pass chosen mechanical discipline exam.
Maintain License	Ongoing	Renew periodically and complete required PDHs.

Passing the FE Mechanical exam is an achievement worth celebrating, but it is also the beginning of a longer professional journey. By securing EIT certification promptly, gaining high-quality engineering experience, understanding your state’s specific rules, and planning early for the PE exam, you position yourself for steady career growth. The process rewards patience, careful documentation, and continued learning—qualities that define a successful mechanical engineer.

Conclusion: Turning Preparation Into a Lasting Career

The FE Exam for Mechanical Engineers is more than a single test—it is the doorway to professional growth and the foundation for earning the coveted Professional Engineer license. By mapping out the topics carefully, setting a steady study plan, and documenting real-world experience, you create a clear path from engineering graduate to licensed professional.

Every hour you spend reviewing thermodynamics, refreshing your math skills, or practicing with the NCEES Reference Handbook moves you closer to that goal. The work is demanding, but the rewards—legal authority to sign designs, greater career mobility, and recognition as a trusted expert—are long-term and substantial.

Approach the process step by step:

1. Pass the FE Mechanical exam.
2. Secure your Engineer-in-Training status.
3. Build four or more years of documented, progressive engineering experience.
4. Prepare for and pass the PE exam.

Stay consistent, track your progress, and use the many resources offered by NCEES and professional societies. With discipline and planning, you will not only pass the FE exam but also build a career marked by credibility, responsibility, and the satisfaction of work that shapes the world around you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should I study for the FE Mechanical exam?
Most successful candidates dedicate 10–15 hours per week for about 10–12 weeks. The exact time depends on how recently you graduated and how familiar you are with the exam topics.

2. Do I need to memorize every formula?
No. The exam provides the official NCEES FE Reference Handbook, which contains all key formulas and data. The real skill is knowing where to find the right formula quickly and how to apply it.

3. When should I take the FE exam?
Ideally, within a year of finishing your engineering degree, while the coursework is still fresh. Graduates who wait several years often need extra study time to revisit core subjects.

4. What happens after I pass the FE?
You apply to your state board for Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) certification. Then you gain about four years of supervised engineering experience before applying for the PE exam.

5. Can I retake the FE exam if I fail?
Yes. NCEES allows up to three attempts in 12 months, though some state boards may set additional limits. Reviewing your weak areas and adjusting your study plan is key before the next attempt.