Are you interested in becoming a licensed U.S. architect or NCARB Certificate holder? The process varies for each candidate, but this page includes a variety of helpful links and resources that can make your path clearer.
General Information
International Applicants Page
Not sure of the best path to licensure for you? This page outlines the basics for most international applicants.
Licensing Requirements Tool
This interactive map includes information on the requirements for licensure in all 55 United States jurisdictions. Check the requirements in the jurisdictions where you’re planning to pursue licensure, or decide which jurisdiction is best to obtain initial licensure.
My NCARB
To become licensed in the United States, you will need to create an NCARB Record at my.ncarb.org. Get started by creating a free account.
Foreign Educated Path
Education Guidelines
Our guidelines for completing the education requirement on the path to licensure include more details on the Foreign Educated Path, as well as the details of NCARB’s Education Standard.
EESA
Learn about the Education Evaluation Services for Architects (EESA) and whether you should have your foreign education evaluated.
NAAB Website
The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) is an institution that ensures your education meets the standards for architect licensure. EESA is administered by NAAB, as opposed to NCARB.
EESA Frequently Asked Questions
EESA can be a complicated process—which is why NAAB created a helpful guide of frequently asked questions to help you better understand the ins and outs of EESA.
iCert Programs
Several institutions hold NAAB International Certification. Find out if your institution is on the list.
Canberra Accord
The Canberra Accord recognizes the similarity of professional architecture degrees between the accreditation agencies of several countries. Find out if your home country is on the list.
Foreign Architect Path
Foreign Architect Path Hub
Understand the basic requirements for architects pursuing the Foreign Architect Path to licensure in the United States.
Foreign Architect Checklist
The Foreign Architect Path includes several requirements. This checklist can help you keep track of everything you need throughout the process.
Certification Guidelines
To earn your license under the Foreign Architect Path, you’ll need to become NCARB certified. Learn more about the NCARB Certificate.
Credential Verification Form
The Credential Verification Form (CVF) is used to verify the architecture license issued by your country. Start by filling out Part A of the form. Then, your registration/license/credentialing authority for your non-U.S. architecture license will complete Part B. They will submit the final form to NCARB.
Transcript Request Form
You can send the Transcript Request Form to your school to have physical copies of your transcripts sent to NCARB. To have your transcripts electronically submitted to NCARB instead, fill out your school’s transcript request form and have them send your transcripts to transcripts@ncarb.org. NCARB will only accept transcripts directly from your school.
Translation Requirements
Detailed instructions on how to have your documents, such as your transcripts and licensure information, translated into English and sent to NCARB.
AXP and ARE
AXP Overview
Learn more about the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®)—from experience hours to AXP supervisors and more.
AXP Guidelines
An in-depth guide to the AXP.
ARE Overview
Learn more about the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), including how to become eligible for the exam, what types of questions are included, and more.
ARE Guidelines
An in-depth guide to the ARE.
Mutual Recognition Agreements
International Practice for Mutual Recognition Agreements
Are you an architect in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or the United Kingdom? You might be eligible for NCARB certification through a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). Learn more about the MRAs for each country.
