How to Become Board Certified

Your path to professional recognition

Becoming Board Certified through AAEES is a straightforward process designed to recognize the knowledge, experience, professional judgment, and expertise of environmental professionals.

Whether you are pursuing certification as an environmental engineer or environmental scientist, the process follows a series of clear steps.

1. Choose Your Certification

AAEES offers Board Certification for environmental engineers and environmental scientists.

For environmental engineers seeking recognition of their professional expertise and experience.

Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE)
Board Certified Environmental Engineering Member (BCEEM)

For environmental scientists seeking recognition of their professional expertise and experience.

Board Certified Environmental Scientist (BCES)

2. Review the Requirements

Once you've identified the certification that's right for you, review the detailed eligibility and application requirements.

Go to https://www.aaees.org/bcee for BCEE
Go to https://www.aaees.org/bceem for BCEEM
Go to https://www.aaees.org/bces for BCES

3. Prepare Your Application

Before you apply, gather the information and documents you'll need to complete your application.

CV
P.E. License if you are applying for BCEE
Education records
Two professional references
$150 application fee. If you are an AAEES Member of an employee of one of our Patrons, this fee may be waived.

For a complete overview of what you'll need:

Download the AAEES Certification Guide.

4. Submit Your Application

Complete and submit your application to AAEES.

Once received, your application moves through the certification review process.

5. Complete the Review Process

A simple five-stage process

APPLY - Submit your application.
SCREEN - AAEES staff prepares your application for review.
REVIEW - The Admissions Committee reviews your eligibility.
DEMONSTRATE - Complete peer review and any required examination.
CERTIFY - The Certification Board makes the final decision.

What Happens During Peer Review?

Peer review is an important part of AAEES Board Certification. Certified professionals review your experience, professional competence, and judgment through a professional discussion.

Will I Need an Examination?

Some candidates will be required to complete a written examination as part of the certification process.

Plan Ahead

Applications are accepted throughout the year, but the review process takes time. We recommend submitting a complete application well before you need the credential for a promotion, proposal, project, or other professional deadline.