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.
Enrollment in the Program Includes
- A peer study group assigned by AIASF;
- A team leader and coach assigned to your group;
- Free admission to monthly class sessions;
- Study materials for the group and more to assist you in successfully passing the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®).
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.
The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) accredits professional degrees in architecture offered by institutions accredited by a U.S. regional accrediting agency. All 54 U.S. registration boards accept the NAAB-accredited degree for registration; 37 of those boards require it.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), in collaboration with licensing boards, facilitates the licensure and credentialing of architects to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. NCARB accomplishes its mission by recommending and encouraging national requirements for architectural licensure in line with three strategic goals:
- Facilitate Licensure: NCARB's programs and services enable the pursuit, achievement, and ongoing maintenance and mobility of architectural licensure
- Foster Collaboration: NCARB’s proactive engagement with licensing boards and industry organizations advances the understanding and effectiveness of architectural regulation
- Maximize Value: NCARB's programs and services further the progress of our licensing boards and customers
The California Architects Board (CAB) was created in 1901 by the California Legislature to fulfill the mission of protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public through the regulation of the practice of architecture in California. It is one of numerous entities within the Department of Consumer Affairs responsible for consumer protection and the regulation of licensed professionals. The Board establishes regulations for examination and licensing of the profession of architecture in California, which as of 2020, numbers over 21,000 licensed architects and approximately 10,000 candidates who are in the process of meeting examination and licensure requirements.
