Structural engineers need added qualifications for major structures

An engineer must be registered as a structural engineer to provide structural engineering services for significant structures. Significant structures include certain hazardous and essential facilities, tall buildings, large bridges, and places where more than 300 people gather. To qualify, an applicant must hold a current Washington professional engineer registration and have at least two years of structural engineering experience beyond the eight years required for professional engineer registration. The law took effect June 11, 2026.

The director selects a candidate for a temporary board position, and the board chair appoints the candidate after board approval. These rules concern temporary members of the state board that registers engineers and land surveyors. Up to three people may serve; each must have been a registered engineer or licensed land surveyor for at least five years before appointment. Temporary members may review cases, help form a meeting quorum, serve on committees, or take part in disciplinary hearings as needed. An appointment may last no more than 180 days unless the director approves a longer term.

The board determines how long registration and authorization certificates remain valid; a licensee must apply to renew by the expiration date to keep a license valid. These rules cover certificates of registration and authorization issued under the chapter. A completed renewal application must reach the board by the expiration date; a mailed application must be postmarked by then, and an online application must be submitted by then. The board may renew a professional land surveyor's certificate only if the surveyor verifies completion of the required continuing education hours. The law took effect June 11, 2026.