Seal vs Stamp

[rtpnd]

When does a PE (structural) need to seal drawings, and when would they need to stamp them? [Seals provide the raised/imprinted surface to the paper but no ink; stamps provide just ink.] My former employer seemed to use stamps almost exclusively, if I remember correctly.

I am going out on my own, and don't know if I need to order one or the other, ot both. Any thoughts?

 

[JAE]

In the 20 states in which I'm licensed, the laws state that you can use either interchangably.

But check with your local engineering board to find out. Or visit their board website where they post the state laws.

 

[MiketheEngineer]

JAE is correct

FL, NJ and DE require embossed seals - If I remember correctly.

Check with the local boards. Go to

http://www.NCEES.org

for a listing of all state boards.

 

[JAE]

and I'm not licensed in those three states so that is probably true.

 

[rtpnd]

Thank you. I'm licensed in NY & CT, and will likely go for NJ soon.

 

[DonPhillips]

In Ohio, Architects can emboss their signature on the cover sheet and simply stamp the rest of the bound set of drawings. Engineer's are required to sign, stamp, and date each sheet. I never understood why the Engineer's board not adopt similar provisions.

When I pick up a state, I normally order both the embosser and the stamp - just in case.

Don Phillips

http://worthingtonengineering.com

 

[PEinc]

NJ wants a seal only. DE requires you to have a seal but you may use an ink stamp or digital stamp also.