PE Electrical Electronics

Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam - Electrical and Computer: Electrical and Electronics

More study resources

About this exam

The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is the NCEES-administered examination that tests for a minimum level of competency in a particular engineering discipline. NCEES offers more than 20 different PE exams, and one of them is Electrical and Computer: Electrical and Electronics. It is designed for engineers who have gained a minimum of four years post-college work experience in their chosen engineering discipline, so most candidates sit for it after building a record of responsible charge under licensed supervision. The exam is discipline-specific: it probes the depth of engineering judgment you apply on the job rather than broad fundamentals, which is why professional experience is expected before you attempt it. Because the exam is offered in many jurisdictions, requirements vary by state or territory; candidates should confirm eligibility with their licensing board and then register and schedule through their MyNCEES account. Preparation should be built around the exam specifications for your discipline, a focused review of the technical topics you actually practice, and timed practice under exam conditions so you can manage both the depth of the problems and the clock. Reasonable accommodations are available for examinees who meet certain eligibility criteria and sufficiently document their request.

What you'll study

Common questions

About PE Electrical Electronics preparation

Who should take the PE Electrical and Computer: Electrical and Electronics exam?

It is intended for engineers who have gained a minimum of four years post-college work experience in their chosen engineering discipline and who want to demonstrate a minimum level of competency in electrical and electronics engineering. Confirm your eligibility with your state or territory licensing board before registering.

Is this exam the same in every state?

NCEES administers the exam, but registration requirements differ by jurisdiction. NCEES advises candidates to learn more about exam-specific information and requirements by choosing their exam and selecting their state or territory, so check your board's page rather than assuming uniform rules.

How do I register and schedule a seat?

Examinees register and schedule appointments through their MyNCEES accounts. During registration you select your exam location, then you are presented with a list of available exam dates. If you are not happy with those choices, you can browse available dates at other NCEES-approved test centers.

When will I get my results?

Exam results are typically available within 7–10 business days. You will receive an email notification from NCEES, so keep the address on your MyNCEES account current and watch for it after your appointment.

How many times can I retake the exam if I fail?

NCEES policy states examinees will be provided one attempt per testing window and no more than three attempts in a 12-month period. Plan your study calendar around that limit rather than assuming you can sit again immediately.

How much does the exam cost?

Fees are set by jurisdiction and are not stated here. The NCEES PE exam page shows fees in the context of specific registration agreements, such as a $250 or $425 exam fee payable directly to NCEES for particular jurisdictions, so verify the amount that applies to your board before paying.

What should I study first?

Start with the exam specifications for the Electrical and Electronics discipline, then weight your review toward the technical areas you practice least. Finish with timed practice sets so you can judge your pace and accuracy before exam day.

Can I get accommodations for a disability?

Reasonable accommodations are available for examinees who meet certain eligibility criteria and sufficiently document their request. Apply early, because documentation review takes time and approval is not automatic.