The PE Mechanical exam is a computer-based exam in which you will work questions relevant to mechanical engineering practice in HVAC and Refrigeration, Machine Design and Materials, or Thermal and Fluid Systems. Click on the tabs below to learn more about the exam.
PE Mechanical Exam Overview
The PE Mechanical exam is designed to test for a minimum level of competency in mechanical engineering. It is designed for engineers who have gained a minimum of four years of work experience in their chosen engineering discipline.
This exam is an 8-hour, computer-based exam with 80 questions relevant to mechanical engineering practices in HVAC and Refrigeration, Machine Design and Materials, or Thermal and Fluid Systems.
A minimum of 300 hours of preparation for the PE Mechanical exam is recommended, although some candidates will need more or less time, depending on their individual backgrounds and experience. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the exam.
The PE Mechanical exam is administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test center.
Interested in registering for the PE Mechanical exam? Visit NCEES to learn more.
HVAC and Refrigeration Exam Details
The average pass rate of a first-time taker of the PE Mechanical: HVAC and Refrigeration exam is 77%.
Topics covered include:
- Thermodynamics
- Psychometrics
- Heat Transfer
- Fluid Mechanics
- Energy/Mass Balances
- Heating/Cooling Loads
- Equipment and Components
- Systems and Components
For more information on the exam specifications, please visit NCEES.
Machine Design and Materials Exam Details
The average pass rate of a first-time taker of the PE Mechanical: Machine Design and Materials exam is 75%.
Topics covered include:
- Basic Engineering Practice
- Engineering Science and Mechanics
- Material Properties
- Strength of Materials
- Vibration
- Mechanical Components
- Joints and Fasteners
- Supportive Knowledge
For more information on the exam specifications, please visit NCEES.
Thermal and Fluid Systems Exam Details
The average pass rate of a first-time taker of the PE Mechanical: Thermal and Fluid Systems exam is 69%.
Topics covered include:
- Basic Engineering Practice
- Fluid Mechanics
- Heat Transfer Principles
- Mass Balance Principles
- Thermodynamics
- Supportive Knowledge
- Hydraulic and Fluid Applications
- Energy/Power System Applications
For more information on the exam specifications, please visit NCEES.
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