Master FE & PE Civil Exams and CFM Certification with This Complete Guide

Isaac Oakeson
Oct 6
5 min read

Engineering is a rewarding career, but becoming a licensed professional engineer requires dedication, practice, and proper preparation. If you are planning to take the FE Civil Exam, PE Civil Exam, or earn CFM Certification, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know. We will also explain the importance of practice exams and study courses to ensure success.

1. Understanding the FE Civil Exam

The FE Civil Exam is the first step for engineers who want to become licensed professional engineers (PE). It is often taken by recent graduates or students who are close to completing their degree.

Key Facts about the FE Civil Exam:

Format: Computer-based exam with 110 multiple-choice questions.
Duration: 6 hours (includes tutorial and break).
Topics Covered: Mathematics, statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation, environmental engineering, and ethics.
Purpose: Tests fundamental engineering knowledge and ensures you are prepared for real-world engineering practice.

Taking the FE Civil Exam is essential because passing it earns you the EIT (Engineer in Training) designation, a requirement before taking the PE Civil Exam.

2. Preparing for the FE Civil Exam

Proper preparation is crucial to passing the exam. Here are some tips:

Create a Study Plan: Start studying at least 3–4 months before your exam. Break topics into weekly goals.
Use the NCEES FE Reference Handbook: This is the only reference allowed during the exam. Learn to navigate it quickly.
Take Practice Exams: A FE Civil Practice Exam helps you understand the format, types of questions, and time management. Regular practice improves speed and accuracy.
Review Weak Areas: Identify topics you struggle with and focus on them.
Enroll in a FE Civil Exam Prep Course: Courses like those offered by Civil Engineering Academy provide detailed lessons, practice problems, and guidance to make studying easier.

Using a structured FE Civil Exam Prep Study Course can save you time and ensure you cover all important topics efficiently.

3. FE Civil Practice Exam: Why It’s Important

A FE Civil Practice Exam is a simulated test that replicates the actual exam environment. It is highly recommended for several reasons:

Familiarity with Question Types: You get used to the multiple-choice format.
Time Management: Practice exams help you pace yourself for the real test.
Identifying Weak Areas: By reviewing your mistakes, you can focus your study on topics where you need improvement.
Confidence Building: Regular practice reduces exam-day anxiety.

It is best to take multiple FE Civil Practice Exams during your preparation. Start with untimed exams to understand the content, then move to timed tests to simulate real conditions.

4. PE Civil Exam: The Next Step

Once you pass the FE Civil Exam and gain work experience (usually four years), you can take the PE Civil Exam. This exam tests your ability to apply engineering principles in professional practice.

Key Facts about the PE Civil Exam:

Format: Computer-based exam with 80–100 questions depending on discipline.
Duration: 8 hours (includes breaks).
Topics Covered: Structural, geotechnical, water resources, transportation, construction, and environmental engineering.
Purpose: Ensures you can handle real-world engineering tasks safely and effectively.

Passing the PE Civil Exam grants you the title of Professional Engineer (PE), which is recognized nationwide and opens doors to advanced career opportunities.

5. Preparing for the PE Civil Exam

Preparation for the PE Civil Exam is different from the FE Civil Exam because it focuses on applied knowledge rather than theory.

Tips for Success:

Use Reference Materials: The exam is open-book, but only approved reference materials are allowed. Familiarize yourself with them.
Enroll in a PE Exam Prep Study Course: Courses help you learn problem-solving methods, practice real exam questions, and manage your time efficiently.
Take PE Civil Practice Exams: Just like the FE exam, practice tests are critical. They simulate real exam conditions and help you identify weak areas.
Focus on Your Discipline: Depending on your field (structural, transportation, geotechnical, water resources), spend extra time on related topics.
Review Engineering Codes and Standards: PE exam questions often reference building codes, ASTM standards, and ASCE guidelines. Knowing these is essential.

6. PE Civil Practice Exam: Why It’s Essential

A PE Civil Practice Exam is a simulation of the real exam. Benefits include:

Realistic Test Experience: Helps reduce exam-day stress.
Time Management: Learn to allocate time for long calculation problems.
Problem-Solving Skills: Practice applying engineering knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Confidence: Regular practice builds confidence in your abilities.

Many top prep courses include multiple PE Civil Practice Exams, along with detailed solutions and explanations, which are invaluable for exam success.

7. CFM Certification: A Valuable Credential

In addition to FE and PE exams, some engineers pursue CFM Certification (Certified Floodplain Manager). This certification is offered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM).

Why CFM Certification Matters:

Shows expertise in floodplain management and flood risk mitigation.
Improves career opportunities in civil engineering, land development, and government planning.
Demonstrates knowledge of FEMA regulations and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Allows you to make safer, more sustainable engineering decisions in flood-prone areas.

How to Get CFM Certification:

Meet Eligibility Requirements: Usually, experience in floodplain management or a related field is required.
Study for the Exam: Use study guides, prep courses, and practice exams.
Pass the CFM Exam: The exam tests knowledge of floodplain management, FEMA policies, and risk mitigation.
Maintain Certification: Continuing education credits are required to keep the certification active.

Earning CFM Certification complements your PE license, especially if you work in civil engineering or infrastructure development.

8. Choosing the Right Prep Course

Prep courses for FE, PE, and CFM exams make a huge difference. Courses typically include:

Video lessons and tutorials.
Practice problems and full-length practice exams.
Step-by-step explanations of solutions.
Guidance on navigating reference materials efficiently.

For example, Civil Engineering Academy offers comprehensive courses that cover all topics for FE Civil Exam, PE Civil Exam, and CFM Certification, along with practice exams to improve speed and confidence.

9. Study Tips for Success

Here are some proven tips for preparing for all these exams:

Start Early: Begin at least 3–6 months before your exam.
Set a Study Schedule: Allocate specific hours each day for study and practice exams.
Use Practice Exams Wisely: Start untimed, then progress to timed tests to simulate real conditions.
Focus on Weak Areas: Spend more time on topics where you make mistakes.
Familiarize Yourself with Reference Materials: Know where to find formulas, tables, and codes.
Take Care of Yourself: Eat well, sleep enough, and manage stress.

10. Final Thoughts

Becoming a licensed engineer or certified floodplain manager is a rewarding career milestone. Passing the FE Civil Exam is the first step, followed by the PE Civil Exam. For those involved in flood management, CFM Certification adds credibility and expertise.

Using practice exams, enrolling in prep courses, and following a structured study guide ensures you are well-prepared and confident. With dedication, consistent practice, and the right resources, you can achieve your goals and advance your engineering career.

Start preparing today with trusted resources like Civil Engineering Academy, which offers FE and PE Civil Exam Prep Courses, Practice Exams, and CFM Certification Guidance to help you succeed.