Question: Does SFPE administer the PE Exam?
Answer: No, the test is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), a separate organization from SFPE. We aim to prepare and provide guidance for those who seek to take the test. Learn more about our PE Exam Prep Course.
Q: Do I need to bring any reference materials to the test?
A: No, the test is computer-based, and a reference manual developed by NCEES will be provided to you during the test. You can download a copy of the reference manual once you have registered to take the PE exam.
Q: Do I physically have to take the test in the state that I wish to pursue my PE in?
A: No, when you register for the computer-based test it will ask you to select the state engineering board you wish to send your results to. Since the test is computer-based, you can take the test at any approved testing location.
Q: Do I have to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam before I can register to take the PE – Fire Protection exam?
A: Yes, NCEES will not let you register to take the PE until you have passed the FE.
Q: Is there a limit to how many times I can take the PE?
A: The PE is only offered to take once a year. Starting in 2024 the exam will be offered in April. If you fail the PE, you can re-take it as many times as you wish but it will still only be offered once a year.
Q: Can I take a paper test instead of the computer-based version of the test?
A: No, the test is only offered as a computer-based test. Accommodations to the test-taker can be provided at the testing location as required by the applicable accessibility requirements.