What is an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) License and Certification?

An Engineer-in-Training (EIT) license or certification is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have passed the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and earned a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program. This credential is often referred to as an EIT certification, EIT license, or EIT FE certification, with the terms used interchangeably across different regions.

Each state’s engineering licensing board oversees the issuance of EIT certifications. While holding an EIT designation does not grant you the authority to practice as a professional engineer (PE), it demonstrates that you have successfully passed the FE exam, which is the first step toward earning a PE license.

Earning your EIT certification is a critical milestone for aspiring engineers, helping to establish credibility and move forward in the engineering licensure process. 

EIT vs. EI: What’s the difference?

The EIT and engineering intern (EI) designations are interchangeable titles used to describe individuals who have passed the FE exam but have not yet obtained their PE license. There is no difference in expertise or qualification between the two–both signify the same milestone in the engineering licensure process.

The primary distinction lies in state-specific terminology. Some state engineering boards use the term EIT certification, while others refer to it as EI certification. Regardless of the designation, both credentials demonstrate that an engineer has met the initial requirements for becoming a licensed PE.

To determine which title applies in your state, check with your state licensing board for official guidelines. 

Benefits of earning your EIT certification

Obtaining your EIT certification offers several key advantages for aspiring engineers, helping to build credibility, improve job prospects, and accelerate career growth. Learn more about these advantages:

• Demonstrate Industry Knowledge: Passing the FE exam and earning an EIT certificate is a significant achievement. It validates your understanding of core engineering principles and signals to employers that you have mastered essential industry concepts. 
• Enhances Job Opportunities: An EIT certification on your resume helps you stand out in a competitive job market. Employers recognize it as a sign of commitment to professional growth and see it as a stepping stone toward PE licensure. Many engineering firms prefer or require candidates to have this credential, giving certified individuals a hiring advantage. 
• Accelerates Career Growth and Salary Potential: Earning your EIT designation sets you on the path to becoming a licensed PE, which can lead to higher salaries, leadership roles, and expanded career opportunities. Many states and employers view the EIT certification as a key requirement for career advancement in engineering disciplines. 

Is becoming an EIT worth it?

Yes, earning your EIT certification is highly beneficial for most engineers, especially those planning to become licensed PEs. It is a mandatory step in the engineering licensure process, as you cannot take the NCEES Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam without first passing the FE exam and obtaining EIT status.

Beyond licensure, an EIT certification can enhance job prospects. Many employers prefer or require candidates to hold this designation, even for entry-level engineering positions. It demonstrates your commitment to professional development, technical competence, and long-term career growth in the engineering field. 

Does an EIT license increase your salary?

Earning an EIT certification can help increase your salary, but the impact depends on your industry and employer. For civil engineers, passing the FE exam and obtaining EIT status is often required for promotions and higher salaries. Many employers won’t advance civil engineers until they earn this certification.

An EIT certification isn't always required for employment in other fields like mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. However, it can still make you a stronger candidate for raises and promotions by proving your expertise and commitment to professional development.

While an EIT certification alone may not guarantee a salary increase, it is a necessary step toward PE licensure, which can significantly boost earnings. Engineers with a PE license often see annual salary increases ranging from $2,000 to over $10,000, making EIT status an important milestone. 

How to get an EIT certification

Earning an EIT certification typically takes just over four years, assuming you complete an ABET-accredited engineering degree and finish the FE exam soon after graduation. Follow these steps to check your state’s requirements, register for and pass the FE exam, and apply for EIT certification through your state engineering board:

1. Check State-Specific Requirements: Each state engineering board has its own requirements for EIT certification. Before starting the process, review your state’s eligibility criteria, application procedures, and any additional documentation needed.
2. Register for the FE Exam: Visit the NCEES website to create a MyNCEES account and register for the FE exam. The test is computer-based and administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers. 
3. Prepare for the FE Exam: Most prospective engineers spend 3 to 6 months studying for the FE exam. Taking the exam during or soon after your senior year in an ABET-accredited engineering program is recommended while key concepts are still fresh.
4. Pass the FE Exam: Exam results are typically available within 7 to 10 days after testing. If you don’t pass, you can retake the exam up to three times per year within designated 3-month retake windows. NCEES provides a diagnostic report to help you improve your next attempt. You can review current pass rates on the NCEES website.
5. Apply for EIT Certification Through Your State Board: After passing the FE exam, submit an EIT certification application to your state engineering board. Requirements vary, but you’ll typically need to complete an application form and pay a certification fee.

How to list EIT certification on your resume

Earning your EIT certification is a valuable achievement that enhances your resume, LinkedIn, and professional credibility. Here’s how to properly showcase it on your resume:

• Include EIT in your name header. Example: John Smith, EIT.
• List your certification details, including your certification number (if applicable) , state, and date of issue. Example: Engineer-in-Training (EIT), #123456, New York, January 2025.
• Incorporate EIT in your job title. Example: Civil Engineer-in-Training.

How to find your EIT certification number

Not all states issue an EIT certification number, so if you don’t have one, it doesn’t mean you haven’t earned EIT status. In states that do provide a number, it is typically listed on your EIT certificate. If you’ve misplaced your certificate, check your state engineering board’s website for certification records or contact them directly for assistance. 

What is the FE/EIT Exam?

The FE exam, sometimes called the EIT exam, is the first step towards becoming a PE. While “FE exam” and “EIT exam” are often used interchangeably, the official designation is the NCEES FE exam, and passing it grants you EIT certification (or EI certification, depending on your state).

The FE exam is a 6-hour, 110-question computer-based exam administered year-round at Pearson VUE Testing Centers by the NCEES. It assesses fundamental engineering knowledge and is available in seven disciplines:

• FE Chemical
• FE Civil
• FE Electrical and Computer
• FE Environmental
• FE Industrial
• FE Mechanical
• FE Other Disciplines

Preparing for the FE exam 

The FE exam can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of passing on your first try. A great place to start is the FE Learning Hub, which provides full-length online practice exams, personalized study plans, and expert resources to keep you on track. For additional guidance, check out PPI’s FE Exam Resource Center, where industry professionals share insights and strategies for exam success.

Maximize your study time by following our 6-step FE exam prep strategy to ensure you’re fully prepared. Passing the FE exam is a major milestone, bringing you one step closer to EIT certification, career advancement, and PE licensure.

What happens after I pass the FE exam?

Once you’ve passed the FE exam, you are officially considered either an Engineering Intern (EI) or an Engineer-in-Training (EIT). Congratulations! You may now be wondering what happens after you pass the NCEES FE Exam, including what your next steps should be. To receive an EIT certificate in the mail, you’ll need to send your transcript to the state board where you want certification. You’ll also want to gain work experience, network with colleagues, and study for the PE exam.

Now that you’ve passed the FE Exam and earned EIT certification, you’re well on your way to becoming a fully licensed professional engineer.