What Are the Maryland PE Requirements for Getting a PE Licence?

Published: Jun 25, 2025
Learn about the Maryland PE requirements for obtaining a PE license, including qualifications, exams, and steps to ensure a successful application.
woman in a meeting - Maryland PE Requirements

Dreaming of becoming a professional engineer in Maryland but unsure about the requirements? The path to a PE license in Maryland involves specific challenges and steps. To manage this process successfully, you need the right tools and resources. This blog offers valuable insights to help you achieve your goal of becoming a professional engineer in Maryland.

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When Do You Need a Professional Engineer License?

person preparing for Maryland PE Requirements

Professional engineers (PE) must obtain a license to expand their careers and excel in specific roles. For instance, licensed engineers are the only ones qualified to:

  • Prepare
  • Sign
  • Seal
  • Submit engineering plans to public authorities

This is crucial for projects that require official approval, such as construction and infrastructure development. With a PE license, you can qualify for roles that demand expertise and authority. Whether securing a multi-million dollar contract with the federal government or serving as an expert witness in court, a PE license can give you the confidence and empowerment to excel in these roles. 

In many states, specific engineers must hold PE licensure to provide their services to the public. Thus, if engineers want to move forward in their careers, a PE license may be their next step.

How Do You Get a Professional Engineer License?

woman doing a test - Maryland PE Requirements

The path to obtaining a professional engineer’s license typically requires:

  • A four-year engineering bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
  • Successful completion of the written or Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
  • Four years of professional engineering experience under the supervision of a professional engineer.
  • Successful completion of the written or CBT Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam

The FE exam is a 110-question exam that tests an examinee’s knowledge of basic engineering principles and must be completed within six hours. Most applicants take this exam during their senior year of their bachelor’s program or shortly after graduation.

The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) administers the FE exam for a fee. The NCEES Principles exam is designed to be taken after completing four years of professional engineering experience under the direction of a professional engineer. This exam tests an applicant’s knowledge and skills in a specific engineering discipline and engineering ethics.

Continuing education requirements include professional engineer license renewals on an annual or biennial basis.

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StudyForFE is an online exam preparation platform founded by Wasim Asghar, a licensed Professional Engineer with over 15 years of industry experience.

Our Comprehensive Review Courses

  • FE electrical exam prep review course and PE power exam preparation course to help students pass the FE and PE exams
  • Interactive lectures, practice problems, and personalized mentorship from Wasim
  • Wasim has authored acclaimed textbooks and study guides, including the FE electrical and computer review manual and the PE power reference manual

With a proven track record of success, StudyForFE has guided numerous students, from recent graduates to experienced professionals, in obtaining their engineering licenses and advancing their careers. 

Success Stories and How To Achieve Your Goals

  • Many of Wasim’s students credit his courses and mentorship with helping them pass their exams and achieve their professional goals.
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Regulatory Board of Maryland PE Licence Certificate

woman working hard - Maryland PE Requirements

The Maryland Board for Professional Engineers plays a crucial role in maintaining engineering standards and regulating the practice of engineering within the state. This regulatory board oversees the licensing of individuals seeking a Professional Engineer (PE) license in Maryland. It issues permits to business entities through which engineering is practiced in the state.

Regulating Engineering Practice in Maryland

Under the provisions of the Business Occupations and Professions Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, and Title 14 of the Code of Maryland Regulations, Subtitle 23, the Maryland Board for Professional Engineers regulates the practice of engineering in the state. This regulation ensures that engineering services in Maryland meet the required standards and adhere to ethical practices.

Investigating Complaints and Imposing Disciplinary Actions

One of the vital functions of the Maryland Board for Professional Engineers is investigating complaints related to licensees and cases of unlicensed practice. By conducting thorough investigations, the board can identify any violations of professional standards and take appropriate disciplinary actions against offenders. Depending on the severity of the misconduct, the board may issue:

  • Reprimands
  • Suspend
  • Revoke licenses
  • Impose fines

The Role of the Maryland Board for Professional Engineers

The Maryland Board for Professional Engineers plays a significant role in maintaining high standards in the engineering profession within the state. 

Role of the Maryland Engineering Board

  • Oversees licensing
  • Regulates engineering practices
  • Investigates complaints
  • Ensures engineering services in Maryland meet required standards and follow to ethical practices

Through these initiatives, the board upholds the integrity and professionalism of the engineering field in Maryland.

Maryland PE Requirements for Getting Your Licence

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Educational Requirements

Candidates must possess a degree from an accredited engineering program. Typically, this includes a Bachelor’s degree in engineering from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

Experience Requirements

Candidates must have at least four years of work experience in engineering under the supervision of a licensed PE. This experience should be relevant to the engineering field where the candidate seeks licensure.

Examination Requirements

Candidates must pass two examinations:

1. Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: This is typically taken right after graduation or during the final year of an engineering program.

2. Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: Candidates can sit for this exam after completing the required work experience. Registration for the PE exam must be done through the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

Application Process

Candidates must apply to the Maryland Board for Professional Engineers, including:

  • Proof of education
  • Work experience
  • Examination results

After completing an original or renewal application, you will receive an email from the Board. This usually occurs within 3-5 days of completing the application or renewal. The email will contain instructions and a link to a website allowing you to log in using your Maryland Department of Labor credentials such as:

  • License type
  • Registration number
  • Password

Engineering Continuing Education Requirements for Maryland

people getting a certification - Maryland PE Requirements

When renewing and maintaining your engineering license in Maryland, you must fulfill continuing education requirements. These requirements are in place to ensure that you continually update your:

  • Skills
  • Acquire new expertise
  • Broaden your knowledge base

In Maryland, engineers are expected to complete a minimum of 16 PDH units earned from participating in and completing qualified programs that cover various aspects of:

  • Engineering
  • Laws
  • Regulations in Maryland
  • Computer hardware and software topics related to engineering
  • Professional ethics
  • Project management
  • Risk assessment
  • Emergency management
  • Similar topics relevant to your field of practice

Specific Continuing Education Content Requirements

In addition to the general continuing education requirements, Maryland requires that licensees earn at least 1 PDH in each biennial licensing term from participating in qualifying programs focused on specific content areas. 

These areas include:

  • Ethical concerns
  • Conflicts related to engineering practice
  • Familiarity with the code of conduct for professional engineers
  • Understanding standards of practice and care in engineering
  • Laws and regulations applicable to engineering in Maryland

Carry Forward Hours and Renewal Dates

Licensees can carry forward a maximum of 8 PDH hours in excess of the required 16 units for license renewal to apply as credit toward the next licensing term. Yet, this carry-over is not permitted on the first renewal cycle after receiving the initial license. 

Maryland Engineering License Renewal Process

Maryland engineering licenses are valid for 2 years and are renewed on the last day of the month the license was initially issued. If you fail to renew your license on time, it will expire, and restoring it will cost an additional fee of $100. You must also prove completing the required continuing education credits within 30 days of reinstating your license.

As a professional engineer in Maryland, staying current with the state’s continuing education requirements is vital to maintaining your license. By fulfilling the PDH units related to:

  • Various engineering topics
  • Ethics
  • Regulations

Maintaining Your Maryland Engineering License

You can ensure that you meet Maryland’s standards for license renewal. Failure to comply with these requirements can expire your license, requiring additional steps and fees to reinstate it. Be proactive in managing your continuing education credits to keep your license current and maintain your professional standing in the field.

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Preparing for Your FE and PE Exams, Tips for Success on the First Try

person trying to study - Maryland PE Requirements

Get To Know the Exam Format and Content

The first step in your exam prep journey is to understand the structure and content of the tests. Reviewing NCEES exam specifications will give you insight into the topics covered and question formats. Practice exams can help you gauge your readiness and identify areas where extra practice is required.

Craft a Solid Study Plan

Having a well-thought-out study plan is essential to your success. Allocate dedicated study time and divide your sessions into manageable parts. Focus on different topics based on your strengths and weaknesses, and mix your study methods with textbooks, online resources, and practice questions.

Invest in Quality Study Materials

High-quality study materials can make a significant difference in your preparation. Opt for review books and resources tailored for the FE and PE exams. Online courses and practice exams can also be highly beneficial. Consider joining a study group or forum to exchange insights and receive support from fellow exam-takers.

Register for a PE Prep Course

Enrolling in a PE prep course can provide structured guidance and expert insights to guide your studies. These courses often include:

  • Detailed review sessions
  • Practice problems
  • Test-taking strategies

Exam Preparation Courses

Look for offerings that include additional resources like mock exams or personalized tutoring for added support and flexibility. These courses often include detailed review sessions, practice problems, and test-taking strategies. 

Exam Preparation Courses with Additional Support

Look for classes that offer extra resources like mock exams or personalized tutoring, especially if you want additional support and flexibility. For instance, StudyForFE offers comprehensive review courses like:

  • FE Electrical Exam Prep Review Course
  • PE Power Exam Preparation Course

Exam Preparation with StudyForFE

These courses help students pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Professional Engineering (PE) exams. Our courses feature:

  • Interactive lectures
  • Practice problems
  • Personalized mentorship from the creator, who has over 15 years of experience as a PE in several states. 

With a course like that, you can navigate the PE license landscape and get on with your lives with professional mentorship that takes the guesswork out of the equation.

Practice Time Management

Efficient time management during the exam is crucial. Practice with timed mock exams to acclimate yourself to the pacing and pressure of the test. Simulate actual exam conditions as closely as possible to build endurance and focus, aiding you in remaining calm and efficient on exam day.

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Land Your Dream Electrical Engineering Job With Ease With the Help of Our PE Power Exam Prep Review Course

If you want to conquer the PE exam, StudyForFE should be your go-to resource. They provide an online exam preparation platform designed by a licensed Professional Engineer with over 15 years of industry experience. Their courses, including FE Electrical Exam Prep Review Course and PE Power Exam Preparation Course, are designed to help students pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Professional Engineering (PE) exams. 

StudyForFE’s courses feature:

  • Interactive lectures
  • Practice problems
  • Personalized mentorship from a genuine expert in the field

Expert Authorship and Curriculum Development

The founder, Wasim Asghar, has authored well-received textbooks and study guides, such as the FE electrical and computer review manual and the PE power reference manual, which have proven invaluable resources for exam takers. 

Proven Success and Student Testimonials

StudyForFE has a solid track record of success, with numerous students achieving their professional goals and advancing their careers through courses and mentorship. 

If you aim to secure your dream job in electrical engineering, StudyForFE’s PE power exam prep Review Course is a must.

Wasim Asghar - P.E, P.ENG, M.ENG

Wasim Asghar - P.E, P.ENG, M.ENG

Licensed Professional Engineer in Texas (PE), Florida (PE) and Ontario (P. Eng) with consulting experience in design, commissioning and plant engineering for clients in Energy, Mining and Infrastructure.

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