January/February 2019

PE Report
New Report Compiles Structural Engineering Laws

Which states recognize the structural engineering license? It’s one of the most common questions from professional engineers looking to market their expertise across state lines. NSPE released a report in November that compiles the key provisions of state laws relating to the practice of structural engineering.

Because of the perceived risk involved and the increased complexity of structural design requirements, many states recognize structural engineers separately from professional engineers and have established different licensing requirements. There is a wide variation in the state requirements to obtain a structural engineering license and in the significance an SE license carries.

NSPE endorses and supports the concept of licensure of engineers only as a “professional engineer” and opposes licensure status by designated branches or specialties of engineering. Currently, there are 29 states and territories that have no structural engineering requirements.

NSPE members have free access to reports that provide state-by-state summaries of laws relating to the practice of engineering. Members can also view report information via an interactive map.