https://www.nspe.org/resources/licensure/what-pe
> To become licensed, engineers must complete a four-year college degree, work under a Professional Engineer for at least four years, pass two intensive competency exams and earn a license from their state's licensure board. Then, to retain their licenses, PEs must continually maintain and improve their skills throughout their careers.
> A century ago, anyone could work as an engineer without proof of competency. In order to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, the first engineering licensure law was enacted in 1907 in Wyoming. Now every state regulates the practice of engineering to ensure public safety by granting only Professional Engineers (PEs) the authority to sign and seal engineering plans and offer their services to the public.
To use the PE seal, engineers must complete several steps to ensure their competency.
* Earn a four-year degree in engineering from an accredited engineering program * Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam * Complete four years of progressive engineering experience under a PE * Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam