What Does “PE” Stand for After a Name?

When “P.E.” is placed after a name, it indicates that the person is a “Professional Engineer” and is officially certified by a State Licensing Board in the United States. Only a person with “P.E.” as a title can legally submit a prepared engineering plan for government approval.

“P.E.” is given to engineers who have earned a four-year college degree, gone through a four-year apprenticeship under a Professional Engineer, or passed two competency exams in lieu of receiving their license. The introduction of professional certification for engineers started in Wyoming in 1907 with the passing of the first engineering licensure law in the United States.