FAQs

What is the reporting requirement?

All AXP experience must be reported within eight months of when it was earned to receive 100 percent credit toward the AXP—this is known as the reporting requirement. At most, you can document six months of experience in each AXP report for full credit. Experience older than eight months—and as far as five years back—is still eligible to receive 50 percent credit toward the AXP.

What is the NCARB Certificate?

The NCARB Certificate is a professional credential for architects that facilitates licensure across borders, provides access to free continuing education, and more. Explore the benefits of NCARB certification.

What is the difference between my NCARB Record number and my NCARB Certificate number?

Your NCARB Record number is issued to you when you establish an NCARB Record. The Certificate number is issued to you when you have met the requirements for the NCARB Certificate. If you an NCARB Certificate, you will have both an NCARB Record and Certificate number.

What is the difference between applying for licensure as a foreign-educated applicant and applying for certification through the foreign architect path?

As a foreign-educated applicant pursuing initial licensure, you will likely need to have your education evaluated by the NAAB (note: the NAAB charges a non-refundable fee for this process) if required by the architectural registration board in the jurisdiction where you seek licensure. As a foreign architect applying for NCARB certification, you will likely not need an EESA evaluation. Learn more.

What is the difference between a My NCARB account and an NCARB Record?

A My NCARB account is a free account that provides access to several NCARB resources, such as the ARE 5.0 demonstration exam or the AXP supervisor portal. An NCARB Record is a paid service that documents your professional history—including your education, experience, and examination details. You will need an NCARB Record to complete the AXP, take the ARE, and become NCARB certified.

What is the AXP Portfolio?

Through the AXP Portfolio, seasoned professionals can submit exhibits of work to fulfill the experience requirement for licensure. To be eligible for the portfolio, you must be able to document applicable experience that is older than five years. To see the full list of requirements, download the AXP Guidelines.

What is the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®)?

The AXP identifies the 96 tasks that you need to be able to competently perform to be able to practice architect independently. It provides a framework to guide you through earning and recording your professional experience. The program is accepted by most U.S. jurisdictions and is a key step on the path to earning an architecture license.

What is the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®)?

The ARE is a multi-division exam used to assess your knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. The exam is required by all U.S. jurisdictions and is a key step on the path to earning a license.

What is NCARB’s Continuum Education Program?

NCARB’s Continuum Education Program is a collection of self-study resources by experts in the profession. By reading our courses and taking an online quiz, you can earn continuing education hours in HSW from the comfort of your home. Continuum Education courses are always free for NCARB Certificate holders and licensure candidates with an active NCARB Record.

What is NCARB’s Analysis of Practice?

The Analysis of Practice is a study that provides insight into the current and near-future practice of architecture. The findings identify the areas of practice that are essential for licensure, which NCARB uses to guide the development of the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®) and the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), among other requirements. Learn more.