How to become a civil engineer: Degree, licensing, & salary

Published November 21, 2025

Civil engineers offer a career path that combines technical skills with projects that can be seen and touched in everyday life. They design and oversee the construction of roads, bridges, airports, water systems, and public buildings, shaping how communities grow and function. This article breaks down everything you need to know about how to become a civil engineer—what they do, the time it takes to join the field, salary expectations, and the exact steps to obtain a license. Whether you’re a student considering engineering school or someone thinking about changing careers, this is a straightforward guide to getting started.

What is a civil engineer?

A civil engineer is the person behind the infrastructure we rely on every day. They design, plan, and manage construction projects that range from small neighborhood roads to massive interstate systems. Beyond transportation, they also work on water treatment plants, stormwater systems, and public buildings.

Day-to-day, civil engineers spend their time reviewing plans, visiting job sites, running calculations, and coordinating with contractors, architects, and government officials. A project might have them checking soil conditions one morning and presenting updated plans to a city council that afternoon. They also carry the responsibility of ensuring that structures comply with all necessary safety codes and environmental regulations.

How long does it take to become a civil engineer?

Most people spend about four years earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, followed by several years of supervised work before they can apply for full licensure. Here’s a rough timeline:

Bachelor’s degree – Typically four years of study at an accredited university. Coursework covers calculus, physics, materials science, surveying, and design software. Some schools also offer tracks in structural, transportation, or environmental engineering.
Internships or co-op programs – Often completed during the degree, these give students hands-on project experience and sometimes lead to job offers after graduation.
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam – Usually taken right after college. Passing this step designates you as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).
Work experience – About four years under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). This period allows you to apply your education to real-world projects and prepares you for licensure.
Professional Engineer (PE) exam – After completing your work experience, you can sit for this test. Passing it grants you the license to sign off on projects and take responsibility for designs.

Altogether, you’re looking at around eight years from the start of college to full licensure. The payoff is that licensed civil engineers have greater career flexibility and more substantial earning potential.

How much does a civil engineer make?

Civil engineering is a well-paying profession compared to many others. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary in 2024 was $99,590. The lowest 10 percent earned under $65,920, while the top 10 percent made more than $160,990.

Entry-level engineers—typically those fresh out of school and working as EITs—earn approximately $70,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on the region and employer. With several years of experience, especially after obtaining a PE license, salaries often climb past six figures. Engineers in specialized areas like structural design, coastal engineering, or project management can earn even higher pay.

The job outlook is also strong. The BLS projects a 6% growth in civil engineering jobs from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for most careers. Much of this growth is tied to population increases, infrastructure upgrades, and federal investment through programs like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which sets aside billions for highways, bridges, and clean water systems.

Civil engineers also have opportunities for extra income through overtime, contract work, or consulting. Those willing to relocate to fast-growing states often find higher wages and strong hiring demand.

Steps to become a civil engineer in the U.S.

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering

Start by enrolling in an ABET-accredited civil engineering program. The degree usually takes four years and includes courses in mechanics, hydraulics, structural analysis, surveying, and design software. This is the foundation for licensure, so choose a program that offers solid internship support and strong industry connections.

Student studying to become a civil engineer

Photo courtesy of https://www.shutterstock.com/

2. Get practical experience through internships or co-ops

Internships and co-op programs enable you to apply classroom learning to real-world projects. You might work on drafting roadway plans, running soil tests, or assisting with cost estimates. These experiences help build your resume and introduce you to mentors who can guide your career. In many cases, a successful internship can lead to a job offer after graduation.

3. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam

Once you graduate, the FE exam is your first major test. It covers core engineering principles across math, science, and civil-specific topics. Passing it earns you the title of Engineer-in-Training (EIT), which shows employers you’re serious about becoming licensed. Most candidates take the exam shortly after finishing school, while the material is still fresh in their minds.

4. Build work experience under a licensed engineer

EITs typically require approximately four years of supervised work experience before qualifying for the PE exam. During this time, some of your regular tasks could include assisting with design calculations, site inspections, report writing, and project coordination. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the business side of engineering, including budgeting, scheduling, and client communication. Documenting your experience carefully is essential, since state boards review it when you apply for licensure.

5. Obtain your Professional Engineer (PE) license

After completing your work experience, you can then apply for the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. Passing it makes you a licensed Professional Engineer. This license gives you the authority to sign off on designs, lead projects, and work as an independent consultant. Requirements vary slightly by state, so check with your local licensing board for specific details.

6. Consider specializing in a branch of civil engineering

Civil engineering encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including structural design, transportation, water systems, and environmental work. Picking a specialty can set you up for higher-paying positions or leadership opportunities as your career develops. Some engineers take the academic route, earning a master’s degree or industry certifications, while others build their expertise by spending years on the job and taking on complex projects.

7. Stay current with continuing education

Licensure isn’t a one-and-done achievement. Most states require continuing education hours to maintain an active PE license. This may involve attending workshops, taking short courses, or staying current on new codes and regulations. The best engineers view learning as an integral part of their job, as technology and standards in the field are constantly evolving.

Tips for success as a civil engineer in the U.S.

Develop strong communication skills. Civil engineers spend a lot of time explaining plans to clients, contractors, and officials. Being able to share technical information clearly keeps projects on track and builds credibility.
Master engineering software. Tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and STAAD Pro are widely used across the industry. Learning these programs early makes you more valuable on the job and helps you handle complex tasks efficiently.
Find a mentor. An experienced engineer can offer guidance on complex technical problems, licensure preparation, and career transitions. Mentorship also helps you expand your professional network.
Keep up with codes and regulations. Building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards are constantly evolving. Staying current avoids legal issues and strengthens your reputation as a reliable engineer.
Join professional groups. Membership in organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) connects you with training, certifications, and industry events that can enhance your professional development. These groups are also great places to meet peers and potential employers.

Is a civil engineer a good career?

Civil engineering offers steady work, strong salaries, and the opportunity to directly improve communities. The demand is exceptionally high in regions where infrastructure is aging or experiencing rapid population growth. States like Texas, Florida, and California need thousands of new engineers to design highways, housing developments, and water systems.

According to the BLS, civil engineering jobs are expected to continue growing through 2033, driven by public investment in roads, bridges, and clean energy projects. Federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act alone is creating long-term opportunities. This means civil engineers are likely to enjoy job security and consistent demand.

Most civil engineers start out in entry-level roles, often helping with design work or supporting senior staff on projects. As they gain experience and earn their professional license, they can advance to positions with greater responsibility, such as senior engineer, project manager, or consultant. Some specialize in fields such as geotechnical or coastal engineering, which typically come with higher salaries.

The career is a good fit for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, teamwork, and projects that have a tangible impact. If you enjoy seeing the results of your work shaping communities and supporting daily life, civil engineering offers both stability and personal satisfaction.

Final thoughts

Becoming a civil engineer takes dedication—college, exams, and years of supervised work—but the career rewards you with good pay, steady demand, and projects you can take pride in.

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