As an engineer in New Hampshire, you are required to use a specific seal on all reports and other official documents. The following will give you a better understanding of the New Hampshire engineering seals and stamps to make sure you are in compliance with the regulations that pertain to your engineering discipline.
Seal Requirements
In the state of New Hampshire, engineering seals must have an outside diameter of 1 9/16” and an inside diameter of 15/16”. The larger outer circle contains a smaller inner circle that must be in the form of an unbroken line. Between these two circles, the words “State of New Hampshire” must be along the top of the seal along with “Professional Engineer” along the bottom. Within the smaller inner circle, New Hampshire engineering stamps and seals must include your name over three lines, your licensing number and the word “licensed” along the bottom.Using Your Seal
There are also requirements for using New Hampshire engineering seals and stamps. Any time you create plats, specifications, drawings, reports, and other documents that will be used in an official capacity, the seal must be used. Any time documents are submitted for the purposes of obtaining permits, construction and any other reports that will be used professionally, engineers must make sure that their official seal is used. Documents that are considered preliminary do not require the seal, as long as it is clearly marked as being such.
New Hampshire engineering seals and stamps can be obtained from any stamp or embosser manufacturer. However, it is important that each form, whether an inked stamp, an embosser, or a digital option, are identical to the seals required by the state.
New Hampshire seals and stamps can only be used on documents which the engineer created, or those that were created by others under his supervision. Additionally, affixing your seal to an official document denotes that you have verified all information and made sure that it meets all local and state requirements and codes.
It is also important to make sure that you are aware of the date on which your licensing expires. Using a seal after licensing has expired is considered a violation.
New Hampshire seals and stamps are available in a variety of rubber stamp options, including those that are self-inking or pre-inked. Engineers may also choose to use an embosser to affix the seal to the appropriate documents, or stamps that require manual inking for application.
New Hampshire Professional Engineers Administrative Rules
When it comes to using New Hampshire seals and stamps, and making sure you are following all requirements, it is important that newly licensed engineers take the time to read through the New Hampshire Professional Engineers Administrative Rules. This will make sure you understand exactly what is required of you and the usage of your official seal to ensure you remain in compliance with the rules and regulations that are applicable to your engineering discipline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the official New Hampshire engineering seal requirements?
New Hampshire engineering seals must be 1 9/16” in outside diameter and 15/16” in inside diameter. The outer ring must include “State of New Hampshire” at the top and “Professional Engineer” at the bottom. Inside the seal, it must show your name over three lines, your license number, and the word “licensed” along the bottom.
When do I need to use my New Hampshire PE stamp on documents?
You should use your seal on plats, specifications, drawings, reports, and any other documents that will be used in an official capacity. It is also required for documents submitted for permits, construction, or professional use. Preliminary documents do not need a seal if they are clearly marked as preliminary.
Can I use a digital New Hampshire engineering seal instead of a physical stamp?
Yes, New Hampshire engineering seals and stamps can be made as inked stamps, embossers, or digital seals. However, all formats must be identical to the state-required seal design and include all required elements.
Can I seal documents I did not personally create?
You may only use your New Hampshire engineering seal on documents you created or on documents created by others under your direct supervision. When you affix your seal, you are certifying that you have reviewed the work and that it meets applicable codes and requirements.
What happens if I use my New Hampshire PE seal after my license expires?
Using your seal after your professional license has expired is a violation. It is important to track your renewal date and stop using your seal immediately if your license is no longer active.
Do New Hampshire engineers need to follow specific administrative rules for seal use?
Yes, newly licensed engineers should review the New Hampshire Professional Engineers Administrative Rules. These rules explain when the seal is required, how it must be used, and what compliance standards apply to your engineering work in New Hampshire.
