All of NCARB’s 54 U.S. jurisdictions have an experience requirement that must be documented and completed before one becomes licensed. This time between fulfilling the education requirement and getting licensed is referred to as an architectural internship. NCARB’s Intern Development Program (IDP) guides interns through this process and is the standard accepted means of completing the experience requirement in almost all U.S. jurisdictions. Download the IDP Guidelines for complete program rules and requirements.
To learn about the other registration requirments, see Studying Architecture and Architect Registration Examination.
OverviewThe Intern Development Program (IDP) identifies the comprehensive experience that is essential for the independent practice of architecture.
NCARB Experience RequirementsLearn the standard requirements for completing the IDP. IDP includes four categories that interns must earn experience in: Pre-Design, Design, Project Management, and Practice Management.
Experience SettingsThere are three experience settings: A (Practice of Architecture), O (Other Work Settings), and S (Supplemental Experience).
Getting StartedYou can begin earning IDP credit while enrolled in architecture school or once you are working in an architecture firm. Once you have established when you can start, you can follow five easy steps to participate.
Maintaining ParticipationLearn how to document your experience for IDP.
Resources for InternsNCARB produces several resources to guide interns through the internship process.
Supervisors and MentorsSupervisors and Mentors are an integral part of the IDP process. Learn more about their important role.
IDP CoordinatorsEach state has an IDP Coordinator to help interns though the process.
IDP e-NewsIDP e-news is a quarterly electronic publication sent to NCARB Record holders currently completing the Intern Development Program (IDP). Topics cover the latest news about the program, Record-processing information, important reminders, and the information related to the program from NCARB’s Annual Meeting and Conference held each June.