Washington, DC—During the 2026 Annual Business Meeting, the National Council of Architectural Registration Board’s (NCARB) membership approved changes to the NCARB Certification Guidelines (effective September 1, 2026), expanding access to NCARB certification for architects licensed through historic, jurisdiction-specific exams.
Updated Examination Requirements
Effective September 1, 2026, NCARB is updating the examination requirements outlined in the Certification Guidelines to address longstanding inequities resulting from historical examination variances. The changes will ensure that architects who have been licensed and practicing responsibly for decades are not unduly burdened by outdated or inconsistent examination and scoring structures.
Background
Over the course of NCARB’s history, jurisdictions have utilized a variety of examination formats and processes to determine a passing score on a division of the registration exam. Prior to computer-based testing of the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), jurisdictional boards independently administered and determined the passing threshold for candidates within their jurisdiction.
This update aligns with NCARB’s ongoing efforts to expand Pathways to Practice for individuals of all backgrounds.
Learn more about the updates coming to the Certification Guidelines on September 1, 2026.
About NCARB
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards’ membership is made up of the architectural licensing boards of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. NCARB, in collaboration with these boards, facilitates the licensure and credentialing of architects to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
To achieve these goals, NCARB works with its Member Boards and volunteers to develop and facilitate standards for licensure, including the national examination and experience program. NCARB also recommends regulatory guidelines for licensing boards and helps architects expand their professional reach through the NCARB Certificate. Connect with NCARB on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.
