How to apply for an Canadian Engineering License
Applying for Professional Engineer Certification
The process of receiving the Professional Engineer certification can take over a year. Application details, as well as specific document requirements, vary from province to province. However, all successful applications must satisfy requirements in the following five fields:
- Academic Assessment;
- Work Experience and References Assessment;
- Language Competency Assessment;
- Character Assessment ; and
- Professional Practice Examination
Academic Assessment – All engineers must obtain a minimum level of education. This generally equates to at least a 4 year undergraduate degree in an engineering discipline or its equivalent. Holders of foreign academic credentials must have their credentials evaluated and given Canadian equivalency.
The provincial or territorial body to which an individual is applying may additionally require him/her to write examinations in any number of the following categories:
- Basic studies examinations – testing ability in math, basic science, and engineering
- Complementary studies examinations – testing knowledge of applied engineering
- Discipline-specific examinations – testing knowledge in engineering science and design
Work Experience and References Assessment – A minimum of 4 years of work experience in an engineering discipline is required to receive licensing in Canada (except Quebec). This includes at least 1 year of supervised work experience in Canada.
It is important to note that it is not required to wait to submit an application until 1 year of Canadian experience has been obtained. Other memberships may be granted in the meantime, and additional steps like the Academic Assessment can be completed while the 1 year of Canadian work experience is in progress.
Language Competency Assessment – Engineers must demonstrate their ability to communicate in either English or French. Many prospective immigrants will already have documents that attest to their language abilities, as this is required by many immigration programs. However, they should check with their specific provincial engineering licensing body, as additional evidence may be required.
Character Assessment – A list of character references must be provided. These references must include Professional Engineers, at least one of whom is licensed to practice in Canada. All must be willing to attest to an applicant’s honesty, integrity, and general good character.
Professional Practice Examination – All Professional Engineer applicants must pass this examination. In order to take the exam, an application for licensing must be in process. The exam is held twice a year. There is often an option, depending on the province or territory to which one is applying, to take the exam while overseas.
Study guides are available through provincial licensing bodies.
Tags: Canadian Engineering
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