FAQs

What happens if my internet or computer crashes during the exam?

If you lose internet connection during your exam and are disconnected, you can restart Bridge when your connection stabilizes, and you will be assigned to the first available proctor. The exam delivery software has been designed to suspend testing time until the computer is operating again.

What happens if I can’t make it to my scheduled test run appointment?

There are no penalties for not attending scheduled test run appointments. However, in an effort to be respectful of proctors’ times and provide our entire community with up-to-date appointment availability, we encourage candidates to cancel or reschedule their test runs ahead of time.

What happened to the ARE 5.0 Handbook?

NCARB's ARE 5.0 Handbook has been merged with the ARE 5.0 GuidelinesYou can find the information formerly contained in the Handbook in the Guidelines

What do I need to be able to test online?

You’ll need a well-lit, private room, free from distractions and clutter (no adults, children, or pets can be present); high-speed internet connection; live audio and visual feed; a laptop or desktop that meets current system requirements; an external webcam with autofocus; ability to download the secure testing browser onto your computer; and at least a 19" monitor. Learn more.

What can I expect on test day?

On your appointment day, be ready to arrive at the test center (or check in for online appointments) 30 minutes early, present a valid photo ID, participate in security procedures, and leave your personal items outside the testing room. Learn more about what to expect.

What are the requirements for submitting a translated transcript?

All official transcripts must be submitted in English directly from the school or translation service and must include: 1) Confirmation that the transcript was provided by the school or the applicant in the university’s original sealed envelope. 2) Confirmation that the translation was completed using the original sealed document. 3) The original, untranslated document.

What are the requirements for NCARB certification?

Architects interested in earning a Certificate will need to meet NCARB’s education, experience, examination, and registration requirements. Details about these requirements can be found in the Certification Guidelines.

What are the eligibility requirements for the mutual recognition agreement (MRA) with the United Kingdom?

To be eligible for licensure through the MRA with the United Kingdom as a U.S. architect, you must be licensed in good standing in a participating U.S. jurisdiction and have an active NCARB Certificate granted through the standard path to certification. You must also have the right to work in the locality where you are seeking registration.

What are NCARB’s operating hours?

NCARB’s office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET, except federal holidays.

I’m a licensed architect from a foreign country. How can I pursue licensure in a U.S. jurisdiction?

If you are actively registered to practice architecture in a country outside of the United States, you can pursue licensure through our foreign architect path to certification. Once you hold an NCARB Certificate, you can use that credential to establish your license in a specific U.S. jurisdiction. Note: not all U.S. jurisdictions accept the Certificate for initial licensure.