Proper Use of P.E. Seal

Abstract

When an engineer obtains registration he is given two means of identifying himself as a professional engineer; the use of the suffix P.E. after his name and his P.E. seal. The use of the P.E. seal is regulated by state law and is generally restricted to inclusion on reports, documents, drawings, and specifications. The legal restrictions and requirements of seal usage are often so confusing that many registered professional engineers misunderstand its proper use. This lack of understanding results in the P.E. seal's being frequently misused or omitted. Registered professional engineers are legally and ethically required to sign and seal engineering documents. Signing and sealing engineering documents accomplishes several objectives. First and foremost, the sealing of documents protects the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Second, seal usage encourages young and/or nonregistered engineers to obtain registration. Third, use of the seal improves the professional status of engineering as viewed by the public. Proper use of the P.E. seal better serves the interest of the profession and the public.