Once you pass the NCEES FE exam, you never have to take it again. That’s how it is here in Texas, at least. I’m not positive that some other states wouldn’t want you to take it again after a significant amount of time had passed. None of them would make you re-take it after only 8 years, though. I’d suggest taking it as soon as you qualify. Based on what we know about it, the closer that exam is to your education, the more successful you’ll be.

David Howell, P.E.
Director of Licensing
Texas Board of Professional Engineers