Engineering Licensing in Orlando, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates professional engineers under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, which defines the practice of engineering as offering or performing services for the public involving the application of engineering principles. If you design structures, systems, or infrastructure in Orlando and offer these services to the public or charge a fee, you must hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license issued by the state.

Work that typically requires licensing includes:
- Structural design of buildings
- Site development and civil engineering plans
- HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems design
- Infrastructure and utility system design
- Any engineering work sealed with a PE stamp

However, certain work is exempt from licensing requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.103. Review that statute to determine if your specific work qualifies for an exemption.

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) does not issue PE licenses—the Florida Board of Professional Engineers handles professional engineer licensing. However, CILB does regulate certain construction-related trades.

To become a licensed Professional Engineer in Florida:

1. Meet qualifications under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, including education and experience requirements (typically a four-year engineering degree and four years of work experience under a PE).

2. Obtain credit for military training if applicable under Fla. Stat. § 489.1131.

3. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, then after gaining required experience, pass the Professional Engineer (PE exam) administered by the state.

4. Apply through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), not a local entity.

Contact the DBPR Division of Professions for current exam schedules, application deadlines, and detailed requirements.

Local Requirements

Orlando operates under the Orlando Municipal Code. Before performing engineering work in Orlando, you must:

• Pull applicable permits through the City of Orlando Building Department for any construction, site work, or infrastructure project tied to your engineering plans.
• Comply with local amendments to state law. Review the Orlando Municipal Code for any local land development, zoning, or permitting requirements that may impose additional obligations beyond state PE licensing.

Contact the Orlando Building Department to confirm permit requirements for your specific project.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 provides exemptions from licensure. These may include certain maintenance work, minor alterations, or work performed by salaried employees for their employer. Review the statute to determine if your services qualify.

State Licensing Board Contact

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

References

• Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.1131 — Credit for relevant military training and education
• Orlando Municipal Code

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