EIT vs EI Certification: What's the Difference After Passing the FE Exam?
After passing the FE Exam, you do not automatically become licensed. You need to apply for a state-issued designation — and depending on where you apply, that designation will be called either Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI).
Both labels represent the same career stage: you have demonstrated foundational engineering knowledge by passing the FE Exam, and you are working toward full PE licensure. The only real difference is what your state chooses to call it.
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What EIT Means
Engineer-in-Training (EIT) is the designation used by approximately half of U.S. state licensing boards. It signifies that the holder has passed the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and has been certified by a state board.
The EIT title can be used after your name (e.g., Jane Doe, EIT) on resumes, business cards, and professional profiles. It signals to employers and clients that you are on the licensure pathway.
What EI Means
Engineering Intern (EI) is the alternative designation used by the remaining state boards. It is functionally identical to EIT — the requirements, application process, and career implications are the same.
NCEES itself uses the term EI in its model rules, and some states have adopted this terminology to align with the national standard. Whether your state calls it EIT or EI, the credential carries the same weight.
Are EIT and EI the Same?
Yes. EIT and EI are two names for the same designation. The distinction is purely terminological and varies by jurisdiction. There is no difference in requirements, scope, or recognition between them.
If you hold an EIT from one state and move to a state that uses EI (or vice versa), your credential is still valid. You may need to apply for reciprocity or transfer, but the underlying qualification is identical.
| Attribute | EIT | EI |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Engineer-in-Training | Engineering Intern |
| Prerequisite | Pass FE Exam + state board approval | Pass FE Exam + state board approval |
| Issuing authority | State licensing board | State licensing board |
| Next step | 4+ years experience, then PE Exam | 4+ years experience, then PE Exam |
| Can practise independently? | No | No |
| Title usage | Jane Doe, EIT | Jane Doe, EI |
Is EIT/EI a License?
No. EIT/EI is a certification or designation, not a licence to practise engineering. It does not authorise you to offer engineering services to the public, sign engineering documents, or use the title Professional Engineer.
EIT/EI is a stepping stone — formal recognition that you are progressing through the licensure pathway. The licence comes after you pass the PE Exam and receive your P.E. designation.
How EIT/EI Fits Between FE and PE
The U.S. engineering licensure pathway has a clear sequence: Education → FE Exam → EIT/EI → Experience → PE Exam → P.E. License. EIT/EI sits in the middle, serving as proof that you have completed the first major milestone (the FE Exam) and are accumulating the experience needed for the final milestone (the PE Exam).
Most states require you to hold EIT/EI status for a minimum of four years of qualifying engineering experience before you can apply for the PE Exam. Some states have additional requirements, such as a specific number of references from licensed P.E.s.
State Board Application Process
In some states, EIT/EI certification is granted automatically after you pass the FE Exam — no separate application needed. In others, you must submit a separate application with supporting documents.
Typical application requirements include: proof of FE Exam passage (provided by NCEES), official university transcripts, a completed state board application form, and payment of any applicable fees (typically $25-$100).
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EIT/EI for International Engineers
International engineers who pass the FE Exam are eligible for EIT/EI certification in most states. The additional requirement for foreign-educated candidates is typically a credential evaluation confirming that your degree is equivalent to a U.S. ABET-accredited engineering programme.
If you completed your credential evaluation before the FE Exam, you likely already have the documentation needed for EIT/EI application. If not, you will need to order one before your state board will process your application.
How Long Does EIT/EI Status Last?
This varies significantly by state. Some states issue EIT/EI certification indefinitely — once granted, it does not expire. Others require periodic renewal (often every 2-4 years) with continuing education or a renewal fee.
A few states have implemented expiration policies where EIT/EI status lapses if the candidate does not progress to the PE Exam within a certain timeframe (e.g., 8-10 years). Check your state board's rules.
How to Use EIT/EI on a Resume
You may add the EIT or EI designation after your name once your state board confirms your certification. Examples: John Smith, EIT or John Smith, EI.
On your resume, list it under Certifications or Professional Designations. Include the issuing state and date. This is a recognized professional credential that demonstrates commitment to licensure — many employers look for it, especially in consulting and infrastructure roles.
Next Step: Working Toward the PE Exam
After receiving EIT/EI certification, your focus shifts to accumulating qualifying engineering experience — typically four or more years of progressive, supervised work under a licensed P.E.
Document your experience carefully. Most state boards require detailed descriptions of projects, responsibilities, and supervisor verification when you apply for the PE Exam. Starting your experience documentation early saves significant effort later.
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Dr. Bruno Grindewald, MD, MRCP
Senior Medical Instructor & Lead Clinical Editor
Dr. Bruno Grindewald is a specialist in postgraduate medical training and clinical diagnostics with over two decades of experience preparing international medical graduates for Royal College sittings and licensing examinations worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is EIT better than EI?
No. They are the same designation with different names used by different states. Neither is superior or more widely recognised.
Do I need EIT/EI to get an engineering job?
Not for most positions. However, many employers value EIT/EI as evidence that you are pursuing licensure, and some roles (especially in consulting) prefer or require it.
Can I use EIT from one state in another?
EIT/EI is state-specific, but most states offer reciprocity or transfer. You may need to apply to the new state's board and pay a transfer fee.
How long after passing the FE Exam should I apply for EIT/EI?
Apply as soon as possible after receiving your FE Exam pass result. Some states grant it automatically; others take 2-8 weeks to process applications.
Does EIT/EI expire?
It depends on your state. Some states grant indefinite EIT/EI; others require renewal every 2-4 years or have expiration policies.
Can I skip EIT/EI and go straight to the PE Exam?
In most states, no. EIT/EI status is a prerequisite for the PE Exam. A few states have alternative pathways for candidates with extensive experience.
How much does EIT/EI application cost?
State board fees typically range from $25 to $100. Some states include EIT/EI certification as part of the FE Exam process at no additional cost.
Is EIT/EI the same as a Professional Engineer license?
No. EIT/EI is a certification, not a licence. You cannot offer engineering services to the public or use the P.E. title until you pass the PE Exam and receive your P.E. license.
What experience counts toward the PE Exam?
Qualifying experience typically includes engineering work that is progressive in nature (increasing responsibility) and supervised or verified by a licensed P.E. Teaching, research, and military engineering experience may also qualify.
