Engineering Licensing in Tallahassee, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida requires a license for any person who offers to perform or performs professional engineering services. This includes design, analysis, and evaluation of engineering systems and structures. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113] defines regulated practice as work that affects public safety, health, or welfare through the application of engineering principles.

You must be licensed if you:
- Design buildings, infrastructure, or mechanical systems
- Prepare engineering plans or specifications
- Seal engineering documents
- Offer engineering services to the public

Unlicensed practice is prohibited. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Qualifications
You must hold a degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program (or equivalent) and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113] You must also complete four years of responsible engineering experience under a licensed engineer's supervision before taking the Professional Engineer (PE) exam.

Step 2: Apply with the State
Apply through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The Construction Industry Licensing Board ([Fla. Stat. § 489.107]) oversees engineering licensure statewide—not locally.

Step 3: Pass the PE Exam
Pass the PE exam administered by NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying) to become a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).

Step 4: Register Locally
Once licensed by Florida, register with the Tallahassee Building Department before performing work in the city.

Military service credit may apply. [Fla. Stat. § 489.1131] provides credit for relevant military training and education toward licensure requirements.

Local Requirements

Permits and Plans Review
Submit all engineering plans and project applications to the Tallahassee Building Department. The city requires sealed PE drawings for projects meeting certain thresholds (structural systems, mechanical design, etc.). Contact the Tallahassee Building Department for current thresholds and submission procedures.

Municipal Code
Tallahassee's local regulations are codified in the Tallahassee Municipal Code. Review the building and development chapters for local amendments, design standards, and permitting procedures that supplement state law.

Exemptions

Engineers are exempt from licensure for certain work: [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
- Work on their own property (non-commercial)
- Engineering work performed under a licensed engineer's direct supervision and responsibility
- Routine maintenance and repair activities that do not alter system design or safety

Private employees working solely for a single employer (not the general public) may be exempt under limited circumstances.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE)
- Phone: 850-521-0500
- Website: https://fbpe.org/

References

The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)