EI Application Process 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the NCEES FE Reference Handbook, and how is it provided during the exam?
- A physical book mailed to candidates before the exam
- An electronic reference available on the exam computer screen (Correct answer)
- A booklet printed at the testing center on exam day
- A document that must be memorized; it is not provided
Correct answer: An electronic reference available on the exam computer screen
The NCEES FE Reference Handbook is provided as an on-screen electronic reference during the computer-based exam.
Question 2: When can a candidate first view their FE exam score after completing the test?
- Immediately upon finishing the exam
- Within 7-10 business days via the NCEES portal (Correct answer)
- After the state board manually reviews results, typically 6 months later
- Only after submitting a PE application
Correct answer: Within 7-10 business days via the NCEES portal
FE exam results are typically released within 7-10 business days and are accessible through the candidate's NCEES MyNCEES account.
Question 3: A candidate who passes the FE exam but wants to work in a different state than where they initially applied should:
- Retake the FE exam in the new state
- Apply for EI certification directly with the new state's licensing board
- Request NCEES transmit their record to the new state board (Correct answer)
- Ask their university to forward their transcript to the new state
Correct answer: Request NCEES transmit their record to the new state board
NCEES maintains a record of your FE pass that can be transmitted electronically to any state licensing board upon request.
Question 4: What does the term 'NCEES Record' refer to in the context of EI and PE licensure?
- A criminal background check maintained by NCEES
- A verified portfolio of education, experience, and exam scores (Correct answer)
- The passing score required on the FE exam
- A publication listing all licensed engineers
Correct answer: A verified portfolio of education, experience, and exam scores
The NCEES Record is an official, verified compilation of a candidate's academic credentials, exam scores, and work experience used for licensure applications.
Question 5: Which of the following best describes a 'continuous testing' window for the FE exam?
- The exam is only offered once per year in a single month
- Candidates may schedule their exam on nearly any business day year-round (Correct answer)
- All candidates must test on the same nationally scheduled date
- Testing is limited to a specific two-week period each semester
Correct answer: Candidates may schedule their exam on nearly any business day year-round
NCEES offers the FE exam through continuous testing, allowing candidates to schedule appointments at Pearson VUE centers nearly any business day throughout the year.
Question 6: What is the waiting period before a candidate may retake the FE exam after a failed attempt?
- No waiting period; retake immediately
- At least 60 days, with a maximum of 3 attempts per 12-month period (Correct answer)
- One full calendar year
- Must wait for the next annual testing window
Correct answer: At least 60 days, with a maximum of 3 attempts per 12-month period
NCEES policy requires a waiting period of at least 60 days between attempts, and candidates are limited to three attempts within any 12-month period.
Question 7: During the FE exam check-in process, what biometric data does Pearson VUE typically collect?
- Blood type and DNA sample
- Palm vein scan and digital photograph (Correct answer)
- Fingerprint and voice recording
- Eye color and height measurement
Correct answer: Palm vein scan and digital photograph
Pearson VUE collects a palm vein scan and a digital photograph as biometric identifiers during check-in for high-stakes exams.
EI Application Process 3
What is the NCEES FE Reference Handbook, and how is it provided during the exam?