Top 11 Bridge Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for bridge engineers in the job market as they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. A bridge engineer with certifications can show potential employers that they have the necessary qualifications to do the job, such as an understanding of engineering principles, safety regulations, and design. Additionally, certifications can give bridge engineers an edge over other applicants who may not have them. The certifications also provide evidence of continued education and training which is important in this field where technology and methods are constantly changing.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Bridge Engineers and explains how they can contribute to a bridge engineer's career, helping them stay ahead in the industry.

What are Bridge Engineer Certifications?

Bridge engineer certification is a certification program designed to ensure that bridge engineers have the necessary knowledge and skills to design and construct safe, reliable, and cost-effective bridges. It is offered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The certification program involves passing an exam that covers topics such as bridge analysis, design, construction techniques, materials selection, and management principles. The exam is divided into two parts: the fundamentals of engineering (FE) exam administered by NCEES and the professional engineering (PE) exam administered by a state board of registration for professional engineers.

Having a bridge engineer certification can help bridge engineers demonstrate their competence in designing bridges. It also helps bridge engineers get recognized for their expertise in this field. Having this certification can help bridge engineers obtain higher positions within their companies or organizations, as well as increase their job security. Additionally, having a bridge engineer certification can help bridge engineers gain access to valuable resources such as conferences and workshops related to bridges, which could potentially lead to further career advancement opportunities.

Pro Tip: Make sure you take the time to research the certification requirements for bridge engineers in your state or region before submitting an application. Each state may have its own specific requirements, so it is important to understand what those are before getting started. Additionally, make sure to check if there are any prerequisites, such as completing a certain number of hours of continuing education or having a minimum amount of experience, that must be met prior to applying for certification.

Related: What does a Bridge Engineer do?

Top 11 Bridge Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Bridge Engineers today.

1. Certified Bridge Engineer (CBE)

A Certified Bridge Engineer (CBE) is a professional engineering certification that recognizes the expertise and experience of bridge engineers. It is awarded by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in bridge engineering.

The CBE program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as bridge design, construction, inspection, maintenance, and management. The exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Applicants must also have at least four years of professional experience in bridge engineering and be a licensed professional engineer in their state or jurisdiction.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the CBE process from start to finish. The cost of the exam varies depending on the state or jurisdiction but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there are fees associated with applying for the certification and maintaining it every three years.

2. Professional Engineer (PE)

Professional Engineer (PE) is a professional designation given to engineers who have met the educational, experience, and examination requirements set forth by their state licensing board. The PE license is required for engineers to practice in many states and jurisdictions.

It typically takes four to five years of work experience in the engineering field before an individual can be eligible to apply for the PE license. During this time, the engineer must also complete additional education courses that are specific to their field of study. In addition, they must pass a comprehensive exam administered by their state licensing board.

To obtain the PE license, applicants must submit an application along with proof of their educational background and work experience. They must also provide transcripts from any college courses they have taken related to engineering. After submitting all required documents, applicants will need to take and pass the Principles & Practice of Engineering Exam (PE Exam). This exam is designed to test an individual’s knowledge of engineering principles and practices.

The cost for applying for a PE license varies from state to state but typically ranges from $200-$400 depending on the jurisdiction. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking and passing the PE Exam which can range from $100-$300 depending on the location.

3. Certified Structural Engineer (SE)

Certified Structural Engineer (SE) is a professional designation given by the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA). This designation is granted to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in structural engineering. The SE certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have achieved a level of excellence in their field.

It typically takes 4-5 years to become certified as an SE, depending on the individual's educational background, work experience, and other qualifications. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass an examination administered by the NCSEA, and demonstrate their competency through a portfolio review.

The cost for the SE certification varies depending on the applicant's qualifications and can range from $1,000-$2,000. This includes fees for taking the exam and submitting a portfolio for review. Additionally, applicants must pay annual dues to maintain their certification status.

4. American Society of Civil Engineers Bridge Certification (ASCE BC)

The American Society of Civil Engineers Bridge Certification (ASCE BC) is a certification program that provides an independent assessment of the safety, reliability, and performance of bridges. The certification process includes a comprehensive review of the bridge’s design, construction, operations, maintenance, and management. The goal of the program is to ensure that bridges meet the highest standards for safety and reliability.

The ASCE BC certification process typically takes about two years to complete. During this time, engineers will conduct an extensive review of the bridge’s design, construction, operations, maintenance, and management. This review includes an analysis of the bridge’s structural integrity and stability as well as its ability to withstand environmental factors such as wind and seismic activity. Once the review is complete, a report is submitted to ASCE for review and approval.

To get certified through ASCE BC, you must first submit an application along with supporting documents such as drawings or photographs of the bridge. The application should include information about the bridge’s design characteristics such as its length and width as well as information about its materials and any special features it may have. You also need to provide evidence that your bridge meets all applicable codes and regulations for safety and reliability. After submitting your application package, you will receive a response from ASCE within six months regarding whether or not your bridge has been approved for certification.

The cost for obtaining ASCE BC certification varies depending on several factors including the size of the project and complexity of the design elements involved. Generally speaking though, most projects range between $5-25k in total costs associated with obtaining certification.

5. National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Bridge Exam

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Bridge Exam is a professional licensure exam that assesses an engineer's knowledge of the principles and practices of bridge engineering. The exam is offered twice a year, in April and October. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete.

To take the NCEES Bridge Exam, you must first register with NCEES and submit a registration fee. Once your registration has been approved, you can then schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE test center near you. You will also need to pay an additional fee for the exam itself. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you are taking it; however, it typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD.

In order to pass the NCEES Bridge Exam, you must score at least 70% correct on all sections of the exam. After completing the exam, your results will be available within two weeks. If you pass the exam, you will receive an official certificate from NCEES that verifies your qualifications as a bridge engineer.

6. American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Bridge Design Professional Certification

The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Bridge Design Professional Certification is a professional certification program for engineers who design steel bridges. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of engineers in the field of bridge design, construction, and maintenance. The certification requires a combination of education, experience, and successful completion of an examination.

To become certified as an AISC Bridge Design Professional, applicants must have a minimum of four years’ experience in bridge design or construction, including at least two years in steel bridge design or construction. Applicants must also possess a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited college or university.

The AISC Bridge Design Professional Certification Examination consists of 140 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as structural analysis and design, materials selection and behavior, fabrication and erection techniques, safety considerations, inspection procedures, and project management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to take the exam, applicants must submit an application form along with their educational transcripts and proof of professional experience. The application fee is $100 USD. Once approved by AISC, applicants will receive instructions on how to schedule their exam date with Prometric Testing Centers located throughout the United States.

The cost for taking the exam is $400 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with scheduling the exam at a Prometric Testing Center location. Upon passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will be awarded their AISC Bridge Design Professional Certification which is valid for five years from the date it was awarded.

7. American Concrete Institute (ACI) Bridge Design Professional Certification

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) Bridge Design Professional Certification is a program designed to recognize the expertise of engineers in the design of bridges and other structures. The certification provides assurance that the engineer has demonstrated knowledge and experience in bridge design principles, practices, and procedures.

To become certified, an individual must pass two exams: a written exam on bridge design principles, practices, and procedures; and a practical exam on bridge design project management. The written exam covers topics such as structural analysis, loadings and materials, detailing requirements, construction considerations, and quality assurance/quality control. The practical exam focuses on project management skills such as scheduling, budgeting, communication with stakeholders, risk management, and dispute resolution.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. In order to get certified by ACI, applicants must first submit an application along with relevant documentation demonstrating their qualifications. After submitting their application materials they will receive an invitation to take the exams if they meet all eligibility criteria.

The cost of getting ACI Bridge Design Professional Certification depends on several factors such as whether or not you are already a member of ACI or need to become one before taking the exams. Generally speaking though it costs around $1,000 for non-members to take both exams plus any additional fees associated with becoming a member if necessary.

8. American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) Bridge Design Professional Certification

The American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) Bridge Design Professional Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the design of bridges for railway applications. This certification is designed to provide assurance to employers, clients, and other stakeholders that certified individuals possess the knowledge, experience, and ability to design safe and reliable bridges for railway applications.

The certification requires applicants to pass two examinations: the AREMA Bridge Design Professional Exam (BDPE) and the AREMA Bridge Design Professional Exam – Structural Analysis (BDPSA). The BDPE covers topics such as bridge geometry, loadings, materials selection, construction methods, inspection requirements, and other related topics. The BDPSA focuses on structural analysis concepts such as static equilibrium, structural stability, elasticity theory, strength of materials, limit states design principles, and finite element analysis.

It typically takes up to four months to complete the application process for this certification. To apply for the certification you must first submit an online application form along with a $200 application fee. Once your application is approved you will receive instructions on how to register for the exams. After passing both exams you will be awarded your AREMA Bridge Design Professional Certification.

The cost of obtaining this certification depends on several factors including exam fees ($200 per exam), study materials or courses ($300-$500), and any additional fees associated with taking the exams such as travel costs or accommodations.

9. International Code Council’s Structural/Bridge Inspector Certification Program

The International Code Council’s Structural/Bridge Inspector Certification Program is a program designed to certify individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect structural and bridge components. This certification program is offered in partnership with the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

The program consists of three levels: Level I, Level II, and Level III. Level I is an entry-level certification that requires a minimum of one year of experience in structural or bridge inspection. Level II requires two years of experience, while Level III requires four years of experience and additional training.

To obtain any level of certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by the International Code Council. The exam covers topics such as building codes, construction materials, inspection techniques, safety regulations, and more. Applicants must also submit documentation verifying their work experience.

The cost for each level varies depending on the applicant's location and the type of exam they are taking. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 per level to take the exam.

Once certified, inspectors must complete continuing education courses every three years in order to maintain their certifications.

10. National Academy of Forensic Engineers’ Certified Forensic Bridge Engineer Program

The National Academy of Forensic Engineers’ Certified Forensic Bridge Engineer Program is a professional certification program that provides recognition to bridge engineers who demonstrate expertise in the application of forensic engineering principles and practices. The program is designed to promote excellence in the practice of forensic engineering and to provide assurance to the public that bridge engineers certified by the National Academy have met rigorous standards for professional competency.

To become a Certified Forensic Bridge Engineer (CFBE), an engineer must possess at least five years of experience in bridge engineering, including two years of experience in forensic engineering. The engineer must also pass a written examination administered by the National Academy. The exam consists of questions related to bridge design, construction, maintenance, inspection, evaluation and repair.

The CFBE designation is valid for three years from the date it is awarded. To maintain certification, engineers must complete continuing education credits every three years.

The cost to apply for the CFBE program varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the National Academy. For non-members, there is an application fee of $250 plus a $150 examination fee; for members, there is only an examination fee of $150.

11. National Society of Professional Engineers’ Certified Professional in Bridges and Structures Program

The National Society of Professional Engineers’ Certified Professional in Bridges and Structures Program (CPBS) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals who are experienced in the design, construction, evaluation and maintenance of bridges and other structures. The CPBS certification is intended to demonstrate a high level of competency in the field of bridge engineering.

To become certified, applicants must have at least five years of experience in bridge engineering or related fields. They must also pass an examination that covers topics such as structural analysis, design principles, materials selection and construction methods. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

Applicants must also complete a minimum number of continuing education units (CEUs) each year to maintain their certification status. CEUs can be earned through various activities such as attending conferences, taking classes or reading technical papers.

The cost for the CPBS certification program varies depending on the type of application submitted; however, it typically ranges from $250 to $500. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or renewing your certification each year.

Overall, obtaining the CPBS certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence in bridge engineering and provides recognition for their expertise in this field.

Do You Really Need a Bridge Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of bridge project you have in mind. If you are planning a small residential bridge, such as one that crosses a stream or creek, then a bridge engineer certificate may not be necessary. On the other hand, if you are planning a larger commercial or public bridge project, then it is likely that you will need to obtain a bridge engineer certificate in order to move forward with the project.

In most cases, obtaining a bridge engineer certificate requires extensive training and experience in the field of civil engineering and related disciplines. The individual must have a thorough understanding of structural design principles and how they apply to bridges; they must also possess knowledge of bridge construction materials and techniques and understand how these materials interact with each other. Additionally, they should have an understanding of local building codes and regulations pertaining to bridges.

In addition to having the requisite qualifications for obtaining a bridge engineer certificate, individuals who wish to obtain one must also pass an examination administered by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). This exam tests an individual's ability to correctly interpret drawings as well as their knowledge of structural engineering principles and practices. Once someone passes this exam, they can become certified as a structural engineer specializing in bridges.

Overall, whether or not you need a bridge engineer certificate depends on the scale and complexity of your project. For smaller residential projects, it may not be necessary; however, if your plans involve constructing larger public or commercial bridges, then obtaining this certification is likely required in order for your project to be successful.

Related: Bridge Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Bridge Engineer Certifications

Q1: What are the requirements to become a bridge engineer?

A1: The requirements vary by country, but typically include a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in civil engineering with a focus on bridge design and construction. Many countries also require professional licensure or certification.

Q2: What type of continuing education is required for bridge engineer certifications?

A2: Continuing education requirements vary by country, but generally involve attending courses, seminars, and conferences related to bridge engineering. Additionally, some certifications may require passing periodic exams or completing specific projects.

Q3: How long does it take to get certified as a bridge engineer?

A3: It depends on the certification program you choose and the amount of time you have available to dedicate to studying and completing the necessary requirements. In general, most certification programs take several months or longer to complete.

Q4: Where can I find information about bridge engineer certifications?

A4: You can find information about various types of bridge engineer certifications online through professional organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Additionally, many universities offer specialized courses that are relevant for those pursuing certification.

Q5: Are there any online resources available to help me prepare for bridge engineer certifications?

A5: Yes! There are numerous online resources available including study guides, practice tests, tutorials, and webinars from professional organizations such as ASCE. Additionally, many universities offer courses specifically designed for individuals preparing for certification exams.