Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination Guide

The Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination (EELE) is one of the most important professional board exams in the Philippines. Administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), this exam measures the readiness, technical knowledge, and practical competence of aspiring electrical engineers. Passing the EELE not only grants the title of Registered Electrical Engineer (REE) but also opens the door to opportunities across industries such as power generation, energy distribution, construction, manufacturing, utilities, and consulting.

This comprehensive guide explains the structure of the exam, eligibility requirements, key subjects, effective preparation strategies, tips for exam day, and insights on what to expect after passing.

Overview of the Electrical Engineer Board Exam

The Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination is conducted twice a year, typically around April and September. The PRC and the Board of Electrical Engineering oversee all testing processes, rules, and requirements.

The exam aims to evaluate the examinee’s mastery of electrical engineering principles, mathematics, safety protocols, power system design, and key practices essential for professional work in the field.

The EELE is composed of multiple subjects, each focusing on specific engineering domains. It includes both theoretical knowledge and practical applications relevant to industry standards.

Eligibility Requirements

To take the Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Educational Qualifications

You must be a graduate of a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) program from a recognized university or institution in the Philippines or abroad. Foreign graduates must provide additional documents for equivalency validation.

2. Documentary Requirements

Typical documents include:

• Duly accomplished PRC examination form

• PSA-issued birth certificate

• PSA-issued marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Transcript of Records with scanned picture and remarks “For Board Examination Purposes”

• College diploma

• Valid government-issued ID

• Examination fee payment receipt

Additional documents may be required for applicants with special cases (e.g., name discrepancies, foreign education).

3. Online Application via PRC LERIS

Applicants must register and schedule their exam appointment through the PRC Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS).

Slots often fill quickly, so early registration is advised.

Structure of the Examination

The EELE consists of two major subjects, each designed to test core competencies:

1. Mathematics, Engineering Sciences, and Allied Subjects

This exam focuses on:

• Advanced engineering mathematics

• Algebra and trigonometry

• Differential equations

• Probability and statistics

• Computer fundamentals

• Chemistry and physics applications

• Engineering mechanics

• Material science

• Electrical circuits fundamentals

This section measures the examinee’s foundation in the scientific and mathematical principles that support electrical engineering practice.

2. Electrical Engineering Professional Subjects

This is the most comprehensive part of the exam and includes:

• Electrical machines and devices

• Power systems (generation, transmission, and distribution)

• Power transformers

• Electrical equipment protection and control

• Industrial motor control

• Illumination engineering

• Building wiring and installation design

• Power system analysis and planning

• Electrical code applications (Philippine Electrical Code)

• Substation and power plant operation

This subject emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical knowledge applied in real-world engineering tasks.

Difficulty Level and Passing Rate

The Electrical Engineer licensure exam is known for its moderate to high difficulty due to the technical depth of topics.

Typical passing rates range from 40% to 60%, depending on the year and the quality of examinee preparations.

Exams with more complex computational problems or updated industry standards tend to have lower passing percentages.

How to Prepare for the EELE

Effective preparation is key to passing the board exam. Here’s a structured plan used by top examinees:

1. Start Reviewing Early

Most successful examinees recommend 3 to 6 months of review, depending on how strong your academic foundation is.

2. Create a Study Schedule

Dedicate time blocks for each major subject:

• Mathematics: 2–3 weeks

• Engineering sciences: 2–3 weeks

• Professional subjects: 6–8 weeks

• Mock exams and corrections: final 2–3 weeks

Consistency is more important than long study hours.

3. Focus on High-Weight Topics

Prioritize the most frequently appearing topics such as:

• Power system calculations

• AC/DC circuit analysis

• Transformer and motor principles

• Electrical code rules

• Protection and control systems

4. Practice Problem-Solving

Answering numerical problems is essential. Strengthen your computational speed and accuracy by:

• Solving past board exam questions

• Practicing simulated exams

• Timing yourself regularly

5. Review the Philippine Electrical Code

Many professional subject questions involve PEC provisions. Understanding these rules improves both exam performance and practical engineering skills.

6. Enroll in a Review Center (Optional)

Review centers provide structured schedules, updated materials, and mock exams. However, self-study is equally effective if you remain disciplined.

7. Take Care of Your Health

Burnout negatively impacts exam performance. Ensure you:

• Get enough sleep

• Eat well

• Take regular breaks

• Avoid cramming the night before the exam

Tips for Exam Day

Here’s what you should keep in mind during exam day:

1. Arrive Early

Arrive at least one hour before the exam. Latecomers are not allowed to enter.

2. Bring the Required Items

PRC typically requires:

• Notice of Admission (NOA)

• Two or more black ballpens (non-erasable)

• Two pencils (if needed)

• Calculator (must follow PRC guidelines)

• Valid ID

• Transparent plastic envelope

• Snacks and water

3. Follow Calculator Rules

Only non-programmable calculators are allowed. Make sure your model is PRC-approved.

4. Manage Your Time

Don’t spend too long on a single problem. Move forward and return later if time permits.

5. Double Check Your Answers

If time remains, verify your solutions—especially computational questions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Examinees often lose points due to avoidable errors:

1. Skipping Key Topics

Some test-takers neglect difficult areas like power systems or machine theory, resulting in a lower score.

2. Calculator Overdependence

Relying too much on calculators slows down your solving process. Strengthen manual computation skills.

3. Lack of Familiarity with PEC

Questions about electrical code compliance are common. Not reviewing PEC leads to avoidable mistakes.

4. Inadequate Rest

Mental fatigue reduces concentration, so ensure adequate sleep before the exam.

After Passing: What Comes Next?

Passing the EELE is a major milestone. Here’s what to expect:

1. Register as a Licensed Electrical Engineer

You must take the PRC oath-taking and proceed with initial registration to receive your:

• Professional ID

• Certificate of Registration

2. Explore Career Opportunities

Registered Electrical Engineers can work in:

• Power generation companies

• Transmission and distribution firms

• Industrial manufacturing plants

• Construction and engineering firms

• Electrical design consultancies

• Utility companies

• Renewable energy projects

• Government agencies

• Academia and training

3. Consider Taking the Master Electrician Exam

Some REE passers choose to also take the Registered Master Electrician (RME) exam to expand job opportunities.

4. Continue Learning

Electrical engineering evolves quickly with new technologies in:

• Automation

• Solar energy and renewables

• Smart grids

• Electrical vehicles

• Advanced control systems

Investing in further education, certifications, and training enhances your career competitiveness.

Final Thoughts

The Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination is a demanding but attainable goal for aspiring engineers. With strategic preparation, mastery of core subjects, consistent practice, and discipline, you can confidently pass the exam and enter a rewarding engineering career.

Use this guide as a structured roadmap, stay focused, and trust your training. Your journey to becoming a licensed electrical engineer starts with the right preparation—begin today.