The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Civil exam is usually the first step toward a PE license. It tests the fundamentals from a civil engineering degree: mathematics, mechanics, fluids, surveying, water resources, structures, geotechnical, transportation and construction engineering.
Exam format at a glance
| Format | 110 multiple-choice and alternative-item questions, taken by computer at a Pearson VUE center. The appointment is 6 hours, including a tutorial and a scheduled break; exam time is 5 hours 20 minutes. |
| Cost | NCEES lists the FE exam fee as $225 (NCEES Exam Guide, July 2025). Check NCEES for current pricing. |
| Scoring | Pass/fail. NCEES does not publish a cut score, so practice scores here use a 70% line as an estimate, not a prediction. |
| Validity | Passing the FE is typically required to become an Engineer Intern (EI or EIT). Licensing requirements are set by each state board. |
Who this exam is for
- Civil engineering seniors and recent graduates
- Engineers in training preparing for the EIT designation
- Working engineers returning to take the FE
How to actually study for it
- Learn to find formulas fast in the searchable FE Reference Handbook — it's the only reference allowed.
- Water resources, structural and geotechnical engineering are each 10 to 15 questions; build depth there.
- Drill statics and mechanics of materials until free-body diagrams are automatic.
- Practice with an NCEES-approved calculator and watch units on every problem.
Where to go next
Start with the free 10-question diagnostic to see where you actually stand, or go straight to the one-page FE Civil cheat sheet. The full FE Civil practice exam covers every domain at the real exam's weighting, with every answer explained.