How to Verify a Professional Engineer (PE) License
Every state engineering board offers a free online license lookup that shows whether a PE is licensed, the license number, its status and any public disciplinary actions. Check before you sign a contract.
Find the right state board
Engineers are licensed by each state, the District of Columbia and the US territories, not nationally. The engineer must be licensed in the state where your project is located. NCEES maintains a directory of all licensing boards at ncees.org/licensing-boards, with links to each board's website.
Most boards have a license verification or license lookup page. Search by last name or license number. Some states combine engineering with surveying, architecture or other professions under one regulatory agency.
What to check in the record
Confirm that the name matches, that the license type is Professional Engineer (some states list a discipline such as civil or structural) and that the status is active or current. Inactive, expired, lapsed, suspended or revoked licenses cannot be used to seal plans.
Look for disciplinary history. Many boards post consent orders and final actions. A single old action is not necessarily disqualifying, but it is worth asking about.
Check the firm as well
Many states require engineering firms to hold a certificate of authorization or firm registration to offer engineering services, separate from the individual's license. Verify both if you are hiring a company.
Also ask for proof of professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, which is not required by every state but is standard for consulting engineers.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a national PE lookup?
No single national public database exists. Use the state board for the state where the work is located. NCEES Records help engineers get licensed in more states, but they are not a public verification tool.
What does PE mean after a name?
That the person holds a Professional Engineer license from at least one state. Ask which state and verify it.
What is a certificate of authorization?
A state registration that allows a business entity to offer engineering services. Requirements vary by state.
Sources
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