DelawareProfessional Engineer License Requirements

Minimum Education

Bachelor’s in related field with 10 years experience, or extensive experience in lieu of degree

Accepted Alternatives

• •Non-ABET engineering degree with additional experience
• •Related science or technology degree with additional experience
• •Foreign engineering degree evaluated by NCEES

Most states require a bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) program. Some states accept related degrees with additional years of experience in lieu of an ABET-accredited degree.

Supervision

Must work under the direct supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer

Experience Type

Progressive engineering experience demonstrating increasing responsibility and application of engineering principles

Alternative Paths

• •Advanced degree (MS/PhD) may substitute for 1 year of experience
• •Teaching engineering at university level may qualify

Most states require 4 years of progressive engineering experience under a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). States without degree requirements typically require 8-12 years of experience. Experience must demonstrate increasing responsibility in engineering work.

NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE)

Format: Computer-based testing (CBT) year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers

NCEES Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE)

Format: Computer-based testing (CBT) at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers

Specialty Disciplines

Engineers working exclusively in manufacturing or industrial settings on products not offered directly to the public may be exempt from PE licensure requirements in Delaware.

Engineering disciplines include Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and many specialty areas. Some states offer an industrial exemption that allows engineers working in manufacturing or industry to practice without a PE license under certain conditions.

CE/PDH Topics

Regulatory Board

PE licenses require renewal on a regular schedule. Most states require Professional Development Hours (PDH) covering engineering topics, ethics, and laws/rules. Some states use Continuing Education Units (CEU) instead of PDH. One CEU typically equals 10 PDH.

Additional Requirements for Transfer

• •Submit comity application with required documentation
• •Verification of licensure from originating state

PE license reciprocity is facilitated through the NCEES comity process. Engineers who meet Model Law Engineer requirements may qualify for expedited licensure in other states. Most states accept NCEES Records for streamlined credential verification.