Is it possible to sit for PE test even without the references?

[Binary]

Does anybody know if one can sit for the PE test even lacking the PE references required for licensing?

I'm curious to know if I could sit for the test in an effort to objectively test my knowledge even though the system prevents me from being licensed.

 

[swertel]

Depends on the state you are in.

Some states require permission from the licensing board to sit for the exam. Others allow you to sit for the exam on your own and make sure the results get sent to the board for your PE. If you don't need permission, then you can take the exam when you're ready.

If I may ask, how does the system PREVENT you from being licensed?

--Scott

For some pleasure reading, the Round Table recommends FAQ731-376

 

[electricpete]

In TX, I don't think you can sit for the PE test if you have not met the other requirements for licensing, including references.

I am pretty sure you can buy lots of books with sample PE tests, though.

 

[Binary]

Well, you can't sit here, either.

Too bad. I would like to be able to objectively demonstrate my knowledge.

I guess the EIT does that to some degree but not to the same level.

Oh well.

Swertel, the system prevents it by creating a structure that has made it impossible for me to qualify even though I've been working for many years. Hopefully I'll get a job someday that does permit it but, pushing 40, it's looking less and less likely.

As I said before...Oh well.

 

[SeanDotson]

I recently sat and passed the FL PE. I only knew one PE reference but had 3 other experienced engineers as references as well. I was accepted to sit for the exam.

Don't get hung up on the letter of the law. They understand you may not have worked with PEs for your entire career.

Sean Dotson, PE
Inventor Tutorials & More

http://www.sdotson.com

 

[Binary]

Hi Sean.

Nice to "see" you here. I've enjoyed your website for the past few months.

 

[swertel]

In AZ, I am "required" to have 3 PE references, two of which have to be registered in the field that I want to be registered in. Needless to say, working in an industry-exempt area, I do not have that many AZ PE supervisors to use as references. What I do have is one WA PE supervisor, licensed in my field; one previous AZ PE who was licensed in my field until he decided to let his renewal lapse, two non-PE supervisor references, and 1 AZ PE coworker as a personal reference who is licensed in a different field.

If you read the fine letter of the law, there are usually exceptions to the "required" references, as Sean stated above. The tough part is reading through all the legal-eze of the rules and regulations of licensure, which you should do anyway prior to getting your registration.
Even if your state doesn't have exceptions, submit an application anyway, all you can loose is the application fee.

--Scott

For some pleasure reading, the Round Table recommends FAQ731-376

 

[SeanDotson]

Hi Binary,

Thanks. Have you stopped by latley? There is a new look to it.

Sean Dotson, PE
Inventor Tutorials & More

http://www.sdotson.com

 

[ClydeMule]

Binary,

It depends on the state and the discipline. In CA if you work for a company that does NOT offer engineering services to the public youo are considered expempt and can have anyone be a reference. They say that they must be technically able to judge your competence. I had 5 references of the required 4. 2 were PE's. Both were vendors. 1 of the others was a vendor and the remaining 2 were customers.

I work for a family business, my father is not an engineer but I guess he is my direct supervisor. I didnot list him as a reference, but he was the only one who could vouch for my time in service. I was confused about this, but the reviewer jsut called me and had my dad fax a letterhead saying I had worked there 2 years (which I have). They were pretty cool about the whole thing.

Honestly, I thought getting the references together was the hardest part. DO this first, and just take the test. That is the best study guide. If you are not under any time constraint this is the mose cost effective method. In CA to take the test again you don't have to go through the whole application process.

Clyde

 

[abzpdl]

If you really just want to objectively test your knowledge, how about getting hold of a practice exam. The study books have practice tests and answers (just don't peek). The licensing PE websites have practice tests. If you score well, you'll be highly motivated to seek out those references, even if they are a friend of a friend of a friend of a friend... Good luck.

 

[abzpdl]

Here are other avenues to consider... if you take an engineering course in an accredited college (in addition to all that you already have) your new professors can become references and be a source of contacts. Another option might be to keep an eye on your long term goal and find another job with more PEs around.