Understanding and navigating the licensure process can be challenging for candidates. We want to ensure candidates know the ins and outs of what to expect—and to guide you on your path, we’ve compiled a list of candidates’ frequently asked questions and answers. More details and tips on topics including how to find study resources, best practices at test centers, specific state requirements, and many others can be found in our webinars on our YouTube.

Education

What is a NAAB-accredited program, and how do I know if I attended one?
The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) evaluates and accredits architecture programs in the United States. A NAAB-accredited program offers a professional degree in architecture that meets the education requirements for licensure in all 55 U.S. jurisdictions. You can explore all NAAB-accredited programs through the NAAB’s school search tool.

How do I add my education to my NCARB Record?
To meet the education requirement of your jurisdiction, NCARB must verify your educational history. To add education to your NCARB Record, select "Education" and then "Add University." You will need to request that your school send an official transcript directly to NCARB using your school's electronic transcript request system (use transcripts@ncarb.org as the recipient's email address) or our transcript request form. Note: If you use your school's transcript request system, be sure to include your NCARB Record number in the notes section. 

I don’t have a degree from a NAAB-accredited program—can I still earn a license?
Yes, but only in certain jurisdictions. Some licensing boards do not require a degree from an accredited program; these jurisdictions typically require you to report additional experience instead. NCARB helps facilitate some additional options for candidates who don’t meet the standard education requirements—for example:  

  • If you do not have a degree from a NAAB-accredited program, you may be eligible for an EESA evaluation. Administered by the NAAB, the Education Evaluation Services for Architects (EESA) compares your academic transcript to the NCARB Education Standard and determines whether your education meets the requirement for licensure or NCARB certification. Learn more about EESA evaluations.
  • If you received an education outside of the United States or Canada and are licensed to practice architecture in a country outside of the United States or Canada, you can complete the credential verification form. After this, you can follow the steps for the foreign architect path to NCARB certification. After earning your NCARB Certificate, you can apply for a license in a U.S. jurisdiction. Note: Applicants for this path do NOT need an EESA. 

Not all jurisdictions accept these options—you can find the requirements for each jurisdiction using the Licensing Requirements Tool. 

Experience

What is the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®), and how do I start reporting experience?
The AXP provides a framework to guide you through gaining and recording your professional experience. The program is accepted by all jurisdictions in the United States and is a key step on the road to obtaining an architecture license. 

You can start gaining AXP experience after graduating from high school (or the established equivalent). Before you can begin reporting AXP experience, you will need an NCARB Record and an experience opportunity that qualifies for the AXP. Learn more about how to get started. 

Who is my AXP supervisor?
Your AXP supervisor manages your progress on a daily basis and is ultimately responsible for your work. Typically, your supervisor is an architect licensed in the United States or Canada, although there are some opportunities that allow you to be supervised by other professionals.

A supervisor’s main task is to assign projects that give you the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills required by the AXP, as well as to provide information and feedback to help guide your professional development. Your supervisor will also review your experience reports and certify that your work meets the expectations and requirements of the AXP. Learn more about the role of your supervisor. 

Examination

What is the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), and how do I start testing?
The ARE is a six-division exam used to assess your knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. The exam is accepted by all U.S. jurisdictions and is a key step on the path to obtaining a license. 

Before you can schedule an ARE division, you must have your eligibility to take the test approved by your licensing board. Once you meet the requirements in your jurisdiction, you can easily apply for eligibility through your NCARB Record. Learn more about applying for exam eligibility. 

Where can I take the ARE?
Regardless of where you are seeking registration or received eligibilities, you have the flexibility to test online, in person, or a combination of both options.   

In-person appointments are offered at PSI test centers throughout the United States and internationally. For online appointments, candidates can test 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in most places around world—as long as your test environment meets certain physical and technical requirements. Learn more about scheduling a testing appointment. 

Where can I find ARE 5.0 study materials and additional resources?
NCARB’s ARE 5.0 Guidelines includes a breakdown of each division, suggested study resources, and more. You can also find real-time advice from NCARB experts and your fellow candidates in the ARE 5.0 Community, as well as exclusive prep videos on our YouTube channel. 

Plus, be sure to take NCARB’s free practice exams for each division of the exam to familiarize yourself with the testing interface, question types, tools, and content you’ll see on test day. You can also take our demonstration exam, which is available to everyone and includes 75 practice questions over a three-hour testing duration.

And for online test takers, you can schedule a free, 30-minute trial appointment to confirm your computer and testing space meet the requirements for online proctoring. See more ARE 5.0 resources. 

NCARB

What’s the difference between licensure and certification?
To practice architecture in the United States, you must have a license from a U.S. jurisdiction. The jurisdictions include the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each jurisdiction is responsible for regulating the practice of architecture within its borders. NCARB recommends and encourages national requirements for licensure by developing standards for the 55 licensing boards, which then issue licenses to applicants who meet their specific registration requirements. 

The NCARB Certificate is a professional credential that can be gained by licensed architects that facilitates cross-border licensing, offers access to continuing education, and more. Explore the benefits of NCARB certification. 

How much do NCARB’s programs cost?
We work to keep our costs low for licensure candidates beginning their professional careers—which is why the fees for some programs and services increase after initial licensure.  

The application fee for licensure candidates is $100, which covers your initial application for an NCARB Record, maintains your active Record for one year, and includes one free Record transmittal to support your application for initial registration. The annual renewal fee, or the fee for licensure candidates to maintain their Record each year is $85.  
 
In addition to the cost of an NCARB Record, each administration of an exam division has a separate fee. The total cost of the exam is $1,410, with individual divisions costing $235 each. There are no additional costs associated with the experience program. Find more information regarding the fees associated with NCARB’s programs and services.