How to Get EIT Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide for Engineers

Earning your EIT (Engineer in Training) certification is an important milestone in any engineering career. The EIT certifies you have the foundational knowledge needed to begin practicing engineering at an entry level. It also shows employers you’re serious about advancing in the field.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the entire EIT certification process step-by-step. By the end you’ll know exactly what to do to get your EIT credential and launch your engineering career.

What is EIT Certification?

EIT stands for Engineer in Training. It’s a certification awarded by state licensing boards in the United States to engineers who have passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.

EIT certification signals you have mastered fundamental engineering concepts such as math physics, engineering mechanics, ethics, and more. It qualifies you to work in an engineering position under the supervision of a Professional Engineer (PE).

The EIT is the first of two exams required to become a licensed PE. After gaining work experience, EITs can sit for the PE exam to gain full licensure. Many employers look for the EIT when hiring entry-level engineers.

• Awarded after passing the 6-hour FE exam

• EIT certification is state-specific – it varies by jurisdiction

• First step to gaining your Professional Engineering license

• Validates fundamental engineering knowledge and skills

• Boosts employment prospects for new engineers

Let’s look at the step-by-step process of how to earn this valuable credential.

Step 1: Check Your State’s EIT Requirements

EIT certification is governed on a state-by-state basis in the US. So the first step is to check the specific requirements for your state. These can include:

• Residency/Work Requirements – Some states require you live or work in the state to apply for EIT there.

• Education – Most states require a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.

• Good Character – Applicants must demonstrate good moral character.

• Exam – You must pass the FE exam first (more details below).

• Application Process – States have different application instructions and fees.

Visit your state engineering board’s website to review all requirements for EIT certification. Meeting them is crucial for approval to take the FE exam.

Step 2: Create a NCESS Account for the FE Exam

The Fundamentals of Engineering exam is computer-based. It’s administered year-round by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).

To register for an FE exam date, you’ll first need to create an account on the NCEES website. Have the following info ready:

• Contact details

• Education background

• Work history

• Payment for exam fees

Log into your NCESS account anytime to register for future exams, view scores, and manage your certification.

Step 3: Sign Up for the FE Exam

Once your NCESS account is setup, you can sign up for the FE exam. Here are key steps:

• Pick a Discipline – Select the specific engineering discipline that matches your degree when registering. Options include chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and more. This affects some of the exam topics.

• Choose an Exam Date – FE exams are offered year-round through NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers. Select a date and location convenient for you.

• Pay Exam Fees – The cost is around $175 for each exam attempt. Payment is required during registration.

• Get Authorization – In some cases, NCEES will ask for verification from your state licensing board before approving your exam registration.

Give yourself plenty of time – it’s recommended you schedule your FE exam 6-12 weeks out. Print your exam authorization when it’s approved.

Step 4: Prepare for the FE Exam

Now it’s time to prepare! The FE exam is a 5 hour and 20 minute exam with 110 multiple choice questions. It covers a range of engineering topics:

• Mathematics

• Probability & Statistics

• Ethics & Professional Practice

• Engineering Economics

• Statics, Dynamics & Mechanics

• Materials Science

• Chemistry

• Computers & Programming

I recommend giving yourself 6-10 weeks to properly prepare using one or more of these methods:

• Self-Study – Review materials independently using textbooks, online courses, flashcards, and practice questions.

• Test Prep Course – Enroll in a prep course for structured lessons, materials, and coaching.

• Study Groups – Join a study group to collaborate with peers and exchange strategies.

• Tutoring – Hire an engineering tutor for one-on-one instruction tailored to you.

Be sure to use official FE exam practice exams from NCEES to benchmark your progress. Taking full-length practice tests is incredibly valuable preparation.

Step 5: Pass the FE Exam

Now it’s time for the big day! Arrive early at your exam center with proper ID, food/water, and any approved references.

The FE exam will test your knowledge of engineering fundamentals spanning a variety of topics. Manage your time wisely and avoid getting stuck on any single problem.

After completing the exam, you’ll receive an unofficial Pass/Fail indication. Official exam results take 7-10 business days to receive from NCEES.

If you pass the FE exam, congratulations! You’ve completed the hard part and can now apply for EIT certification.

If you fail, brush off the disappointment and start planning your re-take. Review your diagnostic report and focus study efforts on weak areas. Persistence pays off!

Step 6: Apply for Your EIT Certification

Once you pass the FE exam, submit an application to your state engineering board to receive your official EIT certificate.

Requirements vary by state but generally involve:

• Completing an application form

• Providing official transcripts

• Including exam results

• Paying an application fee

• Meeting moral character requirements

The approval process takes 4-8 weeks in most states. Once granted, your EIT certification is valid for a certain number of years – ranging from 4 years to indefinitely, depending on the jurisdiction.

Congratulations – you can now put that EIT credential after your name and get ready for an exciting engineering career!

Step 7: Enjoy Being a Newly-Minted EIT!

Join the ranks of almost 400,000 EITs in the United States. Your new certification qualifies you for many entry-level engineering jobs. Take pride in your achievement!

Here are some things you can do as a new EIT:

• Update your resume and LinkedIn profile with your EIT status

• Apply for engineering jobs requiring EIT certification

• Consider joining engineering associations for networking and professional development

• Research the requirements to take the PE exam in your state

• Embark on your engineering career under the guidance of a Professional Engineer

• Continue learning new technical and soft skills to become the best engineer possible!

Earning your EIT demonstrates your foundation in engineering principles and readiness to grow professionally. Use it as a springboard to an amazing career!

FAQs About EIT Certification

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about getting EIT certified:

How long does it take to get EIT certified?

It typically takes 6-12 months to study for and pass the FE exam. The application process then takes 1-2 months. So plan on 8-14 months total.

Does EIT certification expire?

Yes, EIT certifications expire after a set period depending on your state – usually between 4-12 years. You must renew before expiration.

Can I take the FE exam without EIT certification?

Yes, you can take the FE exam first, then apply for certification after passing in your state.

What if I move to another state as an EIT?

You’ll need to apply for EIT licensure in your new state of residence, since it is state-specific.

How much does EIT certification cost?

Between exam fees, application fees, test prep materials, and renewals, expect to spend $1000-$1500+ to become an EIT.

Start Your Engineering Career Today

Gaining your EIT certification is the crucial first step to kickstarting your engineering career.

Follow this step-by-step guide to learn your state’s requirements, pass the FE exam, and earn those three coveted letters after your name.

The financial investment and hard work will pay dividends for years to come as doors open to exciting new engineering job opportunities. Good luck!