Path to Licensure
Advance your Career with AIASF: Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Architect in California
Are you ready to transform your architectural goals into reality? AIASF guides you to the resources and expertise you need to move from student to practicing architect.
Earning your architect license in California involves meeting the California Architects Board (CAB) requirements, which include a combination of education, experience, and examination. While each candidate's journey to licensure may vary, all will emerge with the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities to practice as licensed architects. This ensures that you can protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of California.
Education
A professional degree in architecture: a Bachelor's or Master of Architecture from an accredited institution is required. There are 100+ accredited professional degree programs in the United States and Canada alone. Check the list maintained by the NAAB to find accredited programs.
Experience
All states require that you work under a supervising architect. During this time, you’ll get valuable work experience that will help you advance your career and earn credit in the AXP. NCARB offers resources to help you complete AXP.
Examination
You'll also need to pass the ARE. It's a multi-part exam that tests your knowledge and skills in various segments of architecture practice. AIASF has an ongoing study group and materials for our members preparing for exams.
AIA National also offers resources to help you pass the ARE.
Licensure
You can register for a license once you pass the exams and complete the experience requirement. Individual states grant licenses. You can become licensed in multiple states.
Compare licensure requirements of the 54 jurisdictions to decide where to get your initial license.
The ARE, developed by the NCARB, is the national computerized architectural licensing examination that consists of multiple divisions. The ARE assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills to provide various services required in the practice of architecture.
In addition to the ARE, the CAB requires the CSE for licensure. The CSE ensures that candidates are able to demonstrate minimum standards of competency and necessary architectural knowledge and skills to respond to the unique requirements and conditions in California.