The Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) is a multi-part (or multi-division) exam designed to test your knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. To start scheduling exam appointments, you’ll need:

  1. An active NCARB Record
  2. To be made eligible for testing from the jurisdiction where you plan to get licensed. This process can be completed through your NCARB Record

Below, learn how to set up exam eligibilities and schedule a division, plus get familiar with important exam policies you should know before you start testing.


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Prepare for the ARE With Free NCARB Resources

Are you ready to start testing? NCARB offers several resources to help you get test-ready, including free practice exams.


What is ARE 5.0?

ARE 5.0 features six divisions organized around the progression of a typical architecture project and current practice. The divisions reflect the same areas outlined in the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®). The divisions can be taken in any order and include a combination of multiple-choice, check-all-that-apply, hot spot, and drag-and-place questions (called items), as well as case studies. Learn more about the exam’s format in the ARE 5.0 Guidelines.

Using Your NCARB Record

To take the ARE, you’ll need an active NCARB Record. Within your NCARB Record, click on the “Exams” tab to:

Exam Eligibility

Before you can schedule an appointment to take an ARE division, you will need to select a jurisdiction in your NCARB Record and receive eligibility to test from that board. Each jurisdiction sets its own rules regarding when you're eligible to take the ARE—in most cases, after you meet the board’s education requirement. Explore your jurisdiction’s requirements before requesting eligibility. Once you are eligible, you can schedule an exam appointment.

If you’re not sure if you have eligibilities to test, you can view your eligibility information in your NCARB Record.

Understanding Exam Policies

Before taking the ARE, you should become familiar with our exam policies. Detailed explanations of all ARE 5.0 policies can be found in the ARE 5.0 Guidelines, but you can also learn more about some of NCARB's policies on our website: