2026 Can You Get Licensed With an Online Engineering Degree? Requirements, Rules, and What to Know

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Many aspiring engineers wonder if earning an engineering degree online affects their ability to become licensed professionals. This concern is crucial as the National Society of Professional Engineers reports that 69% of U. S. licensed engineers graduated from accredited programs, highlighting the importance of accreditation for licensure.

Online engineering degrees vary widely in recognition, which can impact eligibility for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and subsequent licensure. This article clarifies the requirements and regulatory standards surrounding online engineering degrees, providing guidance on how to navigate licensing processes and ensure credentials are accepted by state boards.

Key Benefits of Getting Licensed with an Online Engineering Degree

Licensure with an online engineering degree validates your qualifications, providing professional credibility required for roles that involve public safety and legal responsibility.
Licensed engineers access a broader job market, including government and specialized industries, enhancing geographic mobility and career flexibility.
Licensed engineers earn on average 20% more than non-licensed peers and have greater advancement potential in senior or managerial positions.

Can You Get Licensed With an Online Engineering Degree?

Licensure with an online engineering degree is achievable when the program meets essential accreditation standards, such as ABET accreditation, ensuring the curriculum covers necessary math, science, and engineering fundamentals. Completing an accredited online program fulfills key coursework requirements and prepares students with the technical knowledge needed for the Professional Engineer (PE) license. However, obtaining licensure also requires acquiring practical experience, typically about four years under a licensed engineer's supervision, which remains a vital complement to online education. Those pursuing getting professional engineering license online must also pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and PE exams to qualify for licensure in most states.

Obtaining a license through an online engineering degree offers several benefits, including access to regulated career paths that specifically require a PE license and the authority to take legal responsibility for engineering work. Licensed engineers gain opportunities for leadership roles and enhanced salary potential, marking significant career advancement. Prospective students exploring online engineering degree licensure requirements should verify accreditation and plan for experiential learning. Additionally, exploring ai degrees online can provide insights into flexible education options connected to engineering and technology fields.

Do Licensing Requirements for Engineering Vary by State?

Licensing requirements for engineering professionals are established to ensure skill proficiency and protect public safety, but these rules differ widely across U.S. states. Approximately 20 states enforce mandatory continuing education hours to retain licensure, illustrating the breadth of variation in standards. These differences affect how candidates prepare for professional licensure.

Key areas where state-specific engineering licensure requirements vary include:

Examinations: Most states require success on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Professional Engineering (PE) exams, yet exam timing and content details differ. This affects eligibility timelines and preparation strategies for licensing candidates.
Supervised Experience: States vary in required work experience, with some mandating four years under licensed supervision, while others accept shorter durations or alternate documentation. These distinctions influence career planning, especially when seeking engineering license eligibility by state.
Continuing Education: Around a third of states require specific ongoing education hours to maintain licensure, shaping how engineers engage in lifelong learning and professional development.
Renewal Periods and Policies: Licensure renewal can range from annually to every three years, impacting the frequency of compliance actions engineers must take to remain certified.

For those pursuing an online engineering degree, aligning coursework and experience with state requirements is crucial for licensure success. This is similar to other online paths, such as earning a business degree online, where understanding accreditation and credential recognition is key.

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Are Online Engineering Programs Different From Campus Programs for Licensure?

The delivery format of an engineering program-whether online or on-campus-does not inherently impact eligibility for professional licensure. Most state licensing boards prioritize accreditation, curriculum standards, and exam completion over the mode of study. Notably, recent data indicates a 25% increase in employer acceptance of online engineering degrees in the past five years.

Accreditation: ABET accreditation remains crucial for licensure eligibility, as both online and campus programs must meet these rigorous standards to qualify graduates for the licensure process.
Practical Experience: Hands-on components such as labs and internships must be equivalent regardless of format. Online programs often use virtual simulations or partner locally to provide in-person experience where required.
Curriculum and Assessments: The core technical curriculum usually mirrors campus offerings. Assessment methods may differ, with online courses leveraging digital tools and remote exams, but all require passing standard licensure exams like the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) test.
Employer Perceptions: Although some employers remain cautious, acceptance of online degrees is growing as they demonstrate comparable technical competence and professional readiness.

A licensed professional who earned his degree online shared that navigating practical requirements posed initial uncertainty, especially coordinating local internships and lab work. He said, "The elective classes I chose helped build skills beyond core engineering principles, which proved useful in real-world projects." Despite early doubts, he found that his remote learning experience prepared him thoroughly for licensure exams and professional responsibilities, emphasizing that diligence and verifying accreditation were key to his success.

Does an Online Engineering Degree Require Clinical or Practicum Hours?

Online engineering degree clinical hour requirements differ from fields like healthcare, as traditional clinical or practicum hours are generally not included. Instead, engineering programs emphasize supervised work experience to prepare students for professional practice and licensure, ensuring they develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

Practicum and supervised experience for engineering licensure typically involve a structured process that bridges classroom learning with real-world application. This hands-on training is essential for demonstrating competence and adherence to professional standards.

Typical Hours: Candidates usually complete about four years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer. This timeframe satisfies licensure boards' requirements for practical exposure beyond online coursework.
Placement Settings: Work often takes place in varied environments such as design firms, construction sites, manufacturing plants, or research labs. These diverse settings help students gain broad insights into engineering roles and industries.
Supervision and Accountability: Licensed engineers oversee the work experience, providing mentorship and verifying that tasks meet industry quality and safety standards. This oversight is critical for validating practical learning.
Skills Development: Students build essential competencies including problem-solving, project management, teamwork, technical communication, application of safety regulations, and ethical decision-making through this hands-on experience.
Online Program Support: Many online programs facilitate practicum placements by partnering with companies or encouraging students to secure local internships. Students may need to submit detailed work logs and supervisor evaluations to document their progress and eligibility for licensure.

Prospective students should carefully consider how online engineering degree clinical hour requirements and practicum opportunities align with licensure pathways. For those interested in related professional programs, exploring options like a mft degree may also offer flexible online learning with practical experience components.

What Licensing Exam Is Required After Earning an Online Engineering Degree?

Licensing exams confirm that engineering graduates possess the essential skills required for professional practice and are critical for career advancement. Approximately 70% of first-time takers pass the initial licensing test, highlighting the need for focused preparation. Below are key points about the licensing exams relevant to those with an online engineering degree.

Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: This is the first official step toward becoming a professional engineer (PE). It evaluates core engineering knowledge and marks candidates as engineers-in-training, a prerequisite for the PE license.
Exam Content: The FE exam assesses broad topics including mathematics, ethics, general engineering principles, and discipline-specific subjects tailored to the candidate's area of study.
Format and Duration: The test is typically computer-based and lasts about six hours, requiring sustained focus and time management to complete effectively.
Preparation Strategies: Successful candidates often use official study guides and undertake thorough reviews of fundamental concepts to improve their chances of passing.
Retake Policies: Candidates who do not pass may retake the exam, but policies differ by state, often involving mandatory waiting periods and limits on retake attempts.
Eligibility for Online Graduates: Those graduating from accredited online engineering programs are generally eligible to sit for the FE and PE exams, provided their curriculum meets state board requirements.

I spoke with a licensed professional who earned her engineering degree entirely online and navigated the licensing exams. She described the FE exam as "a comprehensive challenge" that required disciplined study amid balancing work and family life. Facing the exam remotely added a layer of complexity, but she appreciated the flexibility of online preparation resources. After passing the FE exam, she found that real-world engineering projects deepened her understanding, which was invaluable for the subsequent PE exam. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized how earning licensure after an online degree "proved the credibility of my education and opened doors in my career that I hadn't anticipated." Her experience underscores the feasibility and professional validation that licensing exams provide to online engineering graduates.

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Is Supervised Work Experience Required After an Online Engineering Degree?

Yes, supervised work experience is generally required following an online engineering degree to qualify for professional licensure in most U.S. states. This phase is crucial for applying academic knowledge in practical settings, enhancing technical skills, and ensuring engineers are prepared for independent practice. Studies indicate that more than 90% of licensed engineers undergo a set period of supervised experience after their degree. The following points summarize essential elements of this process.

Duration: Typically, candidates must complete around four years of relevant engineering work, ensuring adequate exposure to their chosen discipline.
Work Environment: Experience is usually gained in engineering firms, government agencies, or industrial sectors that provide hands-on opportunities related to design, analysis, and project execution.
Mentorship: Licensed professional engineers oversee and guide new engineers, helping them navigate technical challenges and professional responsibilities.
Skill Development: The supervised period fosters growth in areas such as technical expertise, ethical decision-making, and effective communication within engineering projects.
Career Readiness: This experience familiarizes candidates with industry standards, safety regulations, and legal requirements, supporting their eligibility for licensure and successful entry into the profession.

Does Licensure Reciprocity Apply to Online Engineering Graduates?

Licensure reciprocity enables engineers licensed in one state to obtain licensure in another without repeating the entire initial process. This flexibility is vital for professionals aiming to practice across state lines, increasing career opportunities and mobility.

For online engineering graduates, licensure reciprocity involves several important considerations. Below are key factors affecting how reciprocity applies to those with an online engineering degree:

Eligibility Criteria: Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering (PE) exam is typically required, along with documented work experience under a licensed engineer. These criteria ensure consistent professional standards, regardless of degree format.
Program Accreditation: States generally require that an engineering program be ABET-accredited or meet equivalent standards. This is crucial even for online engineering degrees to be recognized for licensure reciprocity and state engineering license transfer for online graduates.
State Agreements and Model Laws: Many states follow the NCEES model law and participate in National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) initiatives, which streamline reciprocity. However, variations among states mean requirements can differ significantly.
Application Process: Applicants must submit comprehensive documentation, such as transcripts, exam scores, and verification of experience. This process safeguards the integrity of licensure across jurisdictions.
Potential Limitations: Some states impose stricter rules on online education or do not recognize programs without proper accreditation. Graduates need to verify each state's board policies to avoid unexpected barriers.

Choosing an online degree program that aligns with professional licensure standards is essential to maximize mobility. For those considering further education, options such as an online doctorate in organizational leadership can complement technical expertise while expanding career pathways across regions.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Online Engineering Programs for Licensure?

Online engineering programs have seen a surge in enrollment, increasing by more than 20% over the last five years. Many learners pursue these options due to their convenience, while carefully considering the impact on licensure prospects since obtaining a professional engineer (PE) license demands strict education and experience standards. Below is an overview of key advantages and drawbacks associated with these programs.

Pros

Flexible scheduling: Students can manage coursework around jobs or family, supporting consistent progress toward licensure requirements.
Geographic accessibility: Programs eliminate location barriers, allowing learners to earn necessary credits from virtually anywhere.
Theoretical foundation: Comprehensive academic content prepares students well for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.

Cons

Limited hands-on experience: Reduced lab and supervised training can hinder development of practical skills required by some licensing boards.
Fewer networking opportunities: Less interaction with peers or mentors may affect professional growth and guidance.
Employer perceptions: Some employers and boards may view online degrees cautiously, though proper accreditation helps alleviate concerns.

Does Getting Licensed With an Online Engineering Degree Affect Salary?

Obtaining licensure with an online engineering degree significantly affects earning potential, with licensed engineers typically earning 15% to 20% more than their non-licensed counterparts. This salary difference reflects the added trust and legal responsibilities granted to licensed professionals. Understanding the impact of online engineering licensure on salary is essential for graduates planning their career paths.

Access to Higher-Paying Roles: Licensure qualifies engineers for positions that offer increased compensation, such as project leadership or senior technical roles. These roles often require formal credentials to validate expertise and accountability.

Eligibility for Leadership Positions: Licensed engineers are more likely to be considered for management and supervisory roles. Employers value the verified skills and professionalism that come with licensure, often resulting in promotions and salary bonuses.

Specialized Technical and Regulatory Responsibilities: Holding a license enables engineers to perform legally accountable functions like approving engineering plans or compliance reports. These specialized duties carry financial incentives and can differentiate licensed professionals in competitive job markets.

Increased Job Security and Career Stability: Employers frequently prioritize licensed engineers for critical or high-stakes projects, ensuring better job retention and advancement opportunities. This preference enhances long-term career prospects and overall compensation stability.

Graduates considering licensure after completing an online engineering degree should also explore options among online schools that accept fafsa to support their educational funding. Researching these programs can streamline the licensure path while maximizing career returns.

Salary differences for licensed online engineering graduates underscore that professional licensure is not only a credential but also a strategic investment in career growth.

What Jobs Can You Get With or Without a License as an Online Engineering Degree Holder?

Licensure as a professional engineer (PE) broadens career opportunities by allowing graduates to take legal responsibility for engineering projects and provide services independently. Many graduates enter roles without a license but may pursue licensure later to enhance their career trajectory. Data shows about 60% of engineering degree holders seek licensure, often leading to higher salaries and quicker promotion. Below are typical jobs available with or without a license.

Jobs With a License

Civil Engineer: Oversees public infrastructure projects, ensures designs meet regulatory standards, and manages safety considerations, offering strong growth potential.
Structural Engineer: Responsible for approving building designs and guaranteeing compliance with safety codes, roles that require licensure and provide leadership opportunities.
Environmental Consultant: Provides expert advice on regulatory compliance and environmental impact, often leading projects requiring official certification and accountability.

Jobs Without a License

Software Engineer: Develops and tests software applications, focusing on technical skills rather than formal licensure; career advancement depends on expertise and experience.
Manufacturing Engineer: Works on production processes and quality control, supporting operational efficiency without needing licensure, though leadership roles may be limited.
Research Analyst: Applies engineering principles to develop new technologies or improve products, usually in roles that prioritize innovation over licensing requirements.

What Graduates Say About Getting Licensed with an Online Engineering Degree

Alfredo: "I found the affordable cost of the online engineering degree to be a huge plus, especially compared to traditional programs that often come with hefty tuition fees. The flexibility of the courses allowed me to balance work and study effectively, and earning my license has opened doors to exciting project management roles. This program truly empowered my career growth without breaking the bank. "

Erik: "Reflecting on my journey, the investment in my online engineering degree was significant but reasonable, considering the quality of instruction and comprehensive coverage of licensure requirements. Navigating the online format was initially challenging but ultimately rewarding, teaching me discipline and time management. Achieving licensure through this path has enriched my professional credibility and expanded my consulting opportunities. "

Landon: "The cost of the online engineering program was surprisingly competitive, which made returning to school a practical choice for me. I appreciated the well-structured online environment that simulated real-world engineering challenges, preparing me well for the licensure exams. This degree has been instrumental in advancing my career as a licensed engineer, giving me confidence and recognition in my field. "

Other Things You Should Know About Engineering Degrees

Can work experience earned remotely count toward Engineering licensure?

Yes, work experience gained through remote or telecommuting engineering roles can count toward licensure as long as it satisfies the requirements set by the state licensing board. The experience must be supervised by a licensed professional engineer and demonstrate increasing levels of responsibility. It is important to document tasks and supervision clearly to ensure acceptance.

How does accreditation affect licensure eligibility for online engineering graduates?

Accreditation plays a crucial role in licensure eligibility for engineering graduates, including those with online degrees. In 2026, graduates must ensure their program is accredited by recognized accrediting bodies, such as ABET, to qualify for the licensure exams and meet state-specific requirements.

How does accreditation affect licensure eligibility for online engineering graduates?

Graduating from an ABET-accredited online engineering program is typically essential for meeting licensure requirements. Accreditation ensures the curriculum meets industry standards and state boards often require it to qualify for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Without proper accreditation, candidates may face additional hurdles or be ineligible for licensure.

Is continuing education required after becoming a licensed engineer with an online degree?

Licensed engineers generally must complete continuing education or professional development hours to maintain their license, regardless of whether their degree was earned online or on campus. Requirements vary by state but typically include courses on ethics, safety, and new engineering technologies. Staying current in these areas ensures engineers uphold professional standards over time.