How to Fulfill Your PDH Requirements: A State-by-State Guide for Engineers

Licensing boards in each U.S. state grant the privilege to practice engineering based on education, experience, and examination. With that privilege comes the responsibility to maintain competence and protect public safety. Maintaining this privilege requires ongoing commitment to professional development, primarily through Continuing Professional Competency (CPC), often tracked using Professional Development Hours (PDH).

PDH activities help engineers stay current with evolving technologies, industry standards, regulations, and ethics. While critical for growth and compliance, PDH requirements vary from state to state, creating a complex landscape for those licensed in multiple jurisdictions. This guide offers a clear, state-by-state overview of PDH requirements across the United States.

What Are PDHs and Why Do They Matter?

A Professional Development Hour (PDH) represents one hour of continuing education in engineering. These activities build technical, ethical, and legal competencies vital to professional practice. Engineers can earn PDHs through:

• Courses and workshops

• Seminars and webinars

• Presentations or teaching

• Publishing articles or books

• Patents and technical contributions

PDH requirements—total hours, renewal cycles, accepted activities—are set by individual states. Some states require fewer hours, while others have biennial or triennial cycles. Many states even require ethics-specific PDHs

Get Compliant with PE Courses

PE Courses makes it easy for engineers to meet their state-specific PDH requirements with:

• Individual courses: Choose from a wide range of technical, ethical, and regulatory topics.

• Pre-built packages: Bundled to match your state’s exact PDH requirements.

• Custom packages: Ideal for engineers licensed in multiple states or with unique compliance needs.

The PE Courses platform is designed for busy professionals who want high-quality, flexible continuing education that meets board standards.

State-by-State PDH Requirements

The table below summarizes each state’s PDH requirements. Please consult your licensing board’s website for the most current details.

Tips to Stay Compliant with PDH Requirements

Given the variation in rules across states, here are key strategies to stay compliant:

1. Know Your State’s Rules

Make sure to determine how many Professional Development Hours (PDHs) you need, the duration of the renewal cycle, and any mandatory topics that must be covered.

2. Keep Detailed Records

Maintain organized documentation of all PDH activities—type, provider, date, length, and hours earned. Many states conduct random audits and expect accurate records for 3–5 years.

3. Plan Ahead

Don’t wait until renewal time. Spread PDH activities throughout the year or renewal period to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Use Tracking Tools

Some platforms, like PE Courses, offer online systems to help you track PDHs.

5. Verify Before You Enroll

If you’re unsure whether an activity counts toward PDHs in a specific state, check with that state board. Requirements can be strict and unique.

6. Stay Alert to Ethics Requirements

Many states require 1–4 hours in ethics or professional responsibility. Always check the latest rules, especially if you practice across state lines.

7. Take Advantage of Memberships

Professional associations often provide PDH opportunities through exclusive webinars, events, and publications.

Recommended PE Course Packages

To help professional engineers meet their PDH requirements efficiently, PE Courses offers specialized, board-compliant packages tailored to engineering disciplines and licensing needs. Here are some of our most popular, ready-to-go options:

• 30-Hour Electrical Engineering Package

Stay compliant with this comprehensive bundle covering essential electrical engineering topics like circuit design, power systems, and electrical safety. Ideal for engineers needing 30 PDHs for biennial renewal.

• 15-Hour Civil Engineering Package

Focused on core civil engineering concepts, this package includes courses in structural analysis, construction practices, and infrastructure. Meets the needs of engineers in states with 15 PDH annual requirements.

• 30-Hour Power Generation Package

This specialized package dives deep into power generation systems, energy efficiency, and safety protocols. A great fit for professionals in utilities, energy, or heavy industry.

• Wood Frame Residential Structures Package

Designed for engineers in residential design and construction, this bundle explores wood framing systems, building codes, and structural considerations.

Conclusion

Earning PDHs is about more than compliance—it’s a reflection of an engineer’s dedication to lifelong learning and public safety. With state rules varying widely, staying informed and organized is essential. Make it a habit to check your state licensing board’s website regularly, track your PDHs diligently, and plan your development activities in advance. Doing so not only ensures compliance but also strengthens your expertise and professional impact.