Are you the go-to person at your firm, school, or organization who everyone comes to with licensure questions? Interested in supporting architect licensure candidates? Join the Architect Licensing Advisors Community!
Architect licensing advisors guide licensure candidates through the process of becoming an architect. Through the Architect Licensing Advisors Community, you’ll meet a passionate, dedicated network of peers who are investing in the next generation of architects.
Note: NCARB is preparing to expand the advisor program in fall 2026 to better support the needs of current licensure candidates. Download the new Architect Licensing Advisors Community Guidelines (effective fall 2026) to learn more and get answers to frequently asked questions.
Upcoming Changes to the Advisor Program
Beginning in fall 2026, NCARB will expand the Architect Licensing Advisors Community to include two roles:
- Architect licensing advisor
- Senior architect licensing advisor
Architect licensing advisors will continue helping candidates understand the licensure process and connect with accurate information and resources. Senior architect licensing advisors will take on a deeper role by leading outreach efforts across institutions, organizations, and broader professional communities, as well as supporting other advisors.
More information about these roles, including responsibilities, benefits, time commitments, funding opportunities, and active status requirements, is available in the new Architect Licensing Advisors Community Guidelines (effective fall 2026). To indicate your interest in becoming an architect licensing advisor or senior architect licensing advisor, please complete a brief form that includes an overview of both roles.
What’s expected of licensing advisors?
As a licensing advisor, you’re expected to engage with candidates in your community on a regular basis and stay active in the community by:
- Maintaining a thorough understanding of the AXP, ARE, and NCARB certification requirements, objectives, and resources
- Connecting with local candidates—both by request and proactively—to provide licensure information and guidance
- Participating in Architect Licensing Advisors Community training and development events
- Communicating with your local licensing board to maintain a thorough understanding of licensure requirements and procedures
- Making sure that your contact info in My NCARB is up-to-date so local candidates can reach you
Note: Beginning fall 2026, advisors and senior licensing advisors must meet additional requirements outlined in the new Architect Licensing Advisors Community Guidelines.
Who can be a licensing advisor?
You don’t have to be an architect to be a licensing advisor. A variety of individuals serve as licensing advisors, including:
- Individuals who support licensure candidates across broader academic or professional communities
- Licensure candidates, recently licensed architects, firm leaders, and administrative staff serving at their firm
- Licensing board members and staff
- Anyone with a passion for mentoring licensure candidates or future architecture professionals
How does NCARB support licensing advisors?
As an architect licensing advisor, you’ll gain access to resources and support to ensure you’re equipped to help candidates, including access to NCARB’s online advisors community, exclusive webinars and training resources, and more. Plus, you’ll have direct NCARB staff support for questions and guidance.
Note: Beginning fall 2026, senior licensing advisors will receive additional support for approved outreach activities and select in-person NCARB events.
Licensing Advisors Summit
Every other year, NCARB hosts the Licensing Advisors Summit, an exciting and engaging conference where you can meet NCARB staff, engage with other advisors, hear updates on NCARB programs, and explore factors that impact the pursuit of licensure.