If you trained as an engineer in Hungary or any other country and have come to Canada, the path to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) may seem daunting. This guide walks you through the major steps.

The provincial associations In Canada, engineering is regulated at the provincial level. Each province and territory has its own regulatory body, such as Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC). To use the title 'Professional Engineer' or 'P.Eng.' in a given province, you must be registered with that province's association.

The general process While each association has its own specifics, the steps are broadly the same across Canada:

Step 1: Educational assessment. Your engineering degree will be evaluated for equivalence with Canadian standards. A Hungarian engineering degree from a recognised university is almost always accepted. If any courses are considered lacking, you may be asked to complete bridging courses.

Step 2: The EIT program. You will be admitted as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (E.Inc.), depending on the province. This designation allows you to work under the supervision of a licensed P.Eng.

Step 3: Practical training. You need at least 48 months (four years) of acceptable engineering experience in Canada. Some of this time may be credited toward your university co-op or internship. International experience may also count.

Step 4: The PE exam. Once you have completed your training, you write the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam. This is a two-part exam covering engineering ethics and your discipline's professional practice.

Step 5: Registration. After passing the exam, you are admitted as a Professional Engineer and may use the P.Eng. designation in that province.

Bridging and mentoring KMME runs a mentorship programme that pairs new internationally trained engineers with senior members who are already licensed. If you would like to be matched with a mentor, email us at magyar_mernok@kmme.org.

Useful links Professional Engineers Ontario · Engineers and Geoscientists BC · Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA)