Question for California PEs: PE as RIC for My Business — Legal and Compliant

[dgengineering]

Hello everyone,

I’m an EIT in California working primarily on residential structural design — additions, remodels, and small new construction. I am currently exploring compliant and legal ways to operate while I work under a licensed PE.

Specifically, I would like to verify whether the following two models are allowed under California engineering laws:

1. A PE registers with the Board as the Engineer of Record (EOR) for my company meaning they are listed as an officer and responsible-in-charge. I handle production, drafting, and client relations; the PE reviews, approves, and stamps as the RIC.

2. Alternatively, without tying them to my company, the PE acts as the EOR for my projects directly — meaning I operate as an EIT freelancer under their supervision. I prepare drawings and calcs; they review, approve, and stamp under their own name, without being officially tied to my business.

Are both of these models legal in California as long as the PE is truly in responsible charge (reviewing, providing feedback, and approving the work)? Or does the Board restrict one or both of these setups?

I want to ensure I stay 100% compliant while operating under proper supervision. If anyone has experience with this or can point me to relevant guidance, I’d greatly appreciate it

 

[jhnblgr]

Typically engineering business owners must be PEs, with select exemptions but always one must be a PE and non PE a certain percentage. Likely option 1 isn’t going to work and I don’t know why you would even want it, option two your business would be a drafting service that a PE would subcontract you for work. You really need to be an employee of the PE to be considered under their supervision in a sense.

What’s your end game here?