Engineering FAQs

Q1. What is an engineer? What is a professional engineer?

An engineer is an individual who has been issued a licence to practice engineering by a provincial or territorial engineering regulatory body after demonstrating that they have the requisite education, skills, knowledge and experience. An engineer is sometimes referred to as a licensed engineer, a registered engineer or a professional engineer.

Q2. Can a person with an engineering degree call themselves an engineer in Canada?

No. Individuals with an engineering degree are known as engineering graduates, and a licensed engineer must take legal responsibility for their engineering work.

Q3. Can a person with an engineering degree practice engineering in Canada?

Engineering graduates can practice engineering only if a licensed engineer assumes responsibility for the work. No one can sign off on engineering work without a licence.

Q4. Does an engineering licence give permission to practise anywhere in Canada?

Licenses are valid only in the province or territory where they are issued. However, there are mobility agreements set in place throughout Canada.

Q5. How do I become a licensed professional engineer in Canada?

The licensing of engineers is the responsibility of the provincial and territorial regulatory bodies. You will need to contact the association of the province where you intend to work for its specific requirements. Visit About Engineers for more information on the steps to become licensed.

Q6. Can I work in Canada before I become a licensed professional engineer?

Yes, but only if a licensed engineer takes responsibility for your work (e.g. calculations, design, etc.)

Q7. How many examinations will I have to write to receive my licence as a professional engineer in Canada?

Your provincial or territorial engineering regulatory body will tell you what examinations you have to write to become a member. They will assign you exams based on your academic background and work experience. Exams are offered in most provinces and territories in English only (French in Quebec and French or English in New Brunswick). If You are based in Ontario visit PEO for more information

Q8. If I get a licence in one province, can I work in another province?

Yes, you can work in another province or territory as long as you obtain a licence from that province’ or territory’s engineering regulatory association to do so. And you do not have to live in that province or territory to get that second licence. The process to secure this licence is facilitated by the Agreement on Internal Trade.

Q9. How do I know if the degrees I take are transferable to Canada or if I would have to take any equivalency exams?

Engineer Canada’s Engineer Here website has information about how to obtain a professional engineering licence, immigration and about working in Canada. Visit the International Engineering Graduates page of this website for more information.

Q10. What is a P.Eng.?

The P.Eng. (“ing.” or “Eng.” in Quebec) is the designation on your licence to practise engineering in Canada. Once acquired, you are an engineer and can take legal responsibility for the engineering work you do.

Q11. My degree isn’t listed on PEO’s Recognized Programs List. What should I do?

Candidates from bachelor of engineering programs not listed on PEO’s Recognized Programs List can request further verification of their academic qualifications through the PEO Application Portal. Alternatively, candidates can consider applying for a limited licence if they meet the submission requirements.