According to The Nebraska Engineers and Architects Regulation Act, an organization is defined as a business entity created by law, including, but not limited to, a partnership, limited liability company, corporation or joint venture. 

A Certificate of Authorization is issued by the Board and authorizes an organization to practice engineering or architecture in Nebraska.

A Certificate of Authority is issued by the Nebraska Secretary of State and authorizes the organization to transact business in Nebraska.

You may need both certificates to practice architecture and/or engineering, engage in design-build or bill for architectural or engineering services on projects in Nebraska. 

Contact the Secretary of State’s office (402-471-2554) for more information about Certificates of Authority.

The following organizations do not require a Certificate of Authorization:

• Organizations that are not a business entity created by law,
• Organizations that engage in activities that result only in non-customized manufactured or fabricated products,
• Organizations that meet the definition of a public service provider (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 81-3423), or
• Organizations that engage in the practice of architecture or engineering only for itself.

Please note that this list is not comprehensive, but reflects common questions received by Board Staff.

Yes, if the organization continues to practice or is offering to practice in Nebraska, the Certificate will need to be renewed. A Certificate of Authorization is renewed every two years on the date the Certificate was issued. Renewal notices will be mailed to the organization approximately one month prior to the expiration date.

An organization can submit a Certificate of Authorization application before the individual(s) listed as being in responsible charge are licensed. However, the certificate will not be issued the individual(s) are licensed or are issued a temporary permit.