Engineering Is a State Regulated Profession

To protect public health, safety, and welfare, all 50 states and U.S. territories—including Georgia—require licensure for the independent practice of engineering. In Georgia, the Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors Board (PELS) oversees this licensure process.

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Under Georgia law:

  • Only licensed Professional Engineers (PEs) may offer engineering services to the public.
  • Only companies with a Certificate of Authorization (COA) may provide engineering services.
  • The words “Engineer” or “Engineering” in business descriptions are regulated.

The PE credential is more than a legal requirement—it’s a mark of trust, competency, and professional commitment.

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Why Become a PE?

Whether you’re a student, early-career professional, employer, or working engineer, becoming a PE opens doors—and safeguards your future.

For Students & Young Professionals

  • Demonstrates planning and foresight
  • Enhances your resume—even if your first job doesn’t require it
  • Keeps your career options open for the next 10–20 years
  • Provides flexibility across roles and industries

For Working Engineers

  • Positions you as a leader in your field
  • Affirms your qualifications with the public and employers
  • Helps you qualify for management, consulting, and government roles
  • Required to offer services directly to the public or lead an engineering firm

⚙️How to Earn Your PE License

For Employers

Encouraging licensure signals integrity, strengthens public trust, and supports long-term workforce development. Even if your industry is exempt, PE licensure communicates:

  • Technical authority
  • Dedication to ethics and professional standards
  • Competitive differentiation when bidding or consulting

🏢Benefits of Licensure for Employers

Steps to Licensure in Georgia

  1. Earn a Degree in Engineering from an accredited program
  2. Pass the FE Exam – typically taken senior year of college
  3. Gain Work Experience – internships, co-ops, and post-grad roles count
  4. Pass the PE Exam – as of July 1, 2025, you can take it anytime after passing the FE
  5. Maintain Your License with ongoing professional development

📄 Apply for or Renew a License
🔍 Search for a Licensed PE or Firm

FAQs

Is GSPE Membership Required to Be a PE?
No. Licensure is handled by the state board. However, GSPE provides career support, networking, and advocacy for the profession.

What’s the Difference Between an EIT and a PE?
An EIT (Engineer-in-Training) has passed the FE exam. A PE has passed the PE exam and met experience requirements. Both are strong career credentials.

Trust the Credential. Earn the Recognition.

Engineers design the systems we trust every day—bridges, roads, power, clean water, communications. The PE license ensures that the people behind those systems are qualified, experienced, and accountable.

Still Have Questions?

📧 Email the PELS Board at info@pels.ga.gov
🌐 Visit https://pels.georgia.gov for regulations, COA info, and license verification
🏛️ Learn more about GSPE at www.gspe.org