In Canada, the test required to be passed to obtain the PE license does not have a single question concerning actual matters or competency. Rather, it concerns

In Canada, the test required to be passed to obtain the PE license does not have a single question concerning actual matters or competency. Rather, it concerns the legal framework, the deontology, the ethics and the responsibilities of the profession. The obligation of competency is part of the Deontological Code. Or at least, so it is in Quebec. The Engineer (note that Engineer is a legally reserved title in Quebec, rather than "Professional Engineer" in most other places) is obligated to perform mandates only if he is competent do to them. It is his own resposibility to make sure he's competent. If he is later shown to have performed work for which he was incompetent, he is liable to fines and/or to have his license revoked temporarily or permanently. The PE licensing system here also requires a certain period (3 years) under which the EIT (or jr engineer in QC) must work under the direct supervision and direction of a licensed PE, before applying to obtain his PE license. This is similar to the apprenticeship system you propose, from what I understand.