Whether you’re newly licensed or have been practicing for years, the NCARB Certificate can help expand your professional reach.

Along with the flexibility to pursue work in multiple jurisdictions, Certificate holders have access to free continuing education, exciting leadership opportunities, and more.

Learn How to Get Certified


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Find Your Path to Certification

If you don't have a degree from a NAAB-accredited program or were originally licensed outside the U.S., we have a pathway to certification for you.


Professional Mobility

Having an NCARB Certificate gives you the flexibility to apply for reciprocal licensure in all 55 U.S. jurisdictions. The Certificate can also be used to support registration in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. In some jurisdictions, Certificate holders are able to interview for new work prior to acquiring a license in that jurisdiction (always check local laws for requirements).

Free Continuing Education

Certificate holders have access to NCARB’s free continuing education courses as part of our Continuum Education Program, a collection of in-depth, online self-study materials that help professionals maintain and expand their competence. By completing the online quizzes and exercises, you can earn Learning Units (LUs) in Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) from the comfort of your own home, office, or mobile device.

Competitive Edge

You can use the “NCARB” credential in your title, which demonstrates you’ve met national standards for licensure. This qualification, and the flexibility it provides, can be an important factor for firms when hiring and promoting.

Secure Records

As a Certificate holder, you don’t have to worry about record keeping. All of your professional information is stored on our secure servers—ready whenever you need it.

Leadership Opportunities

Certificate holders are often the first to hear about volunteer opportunities on licensing boards and NCARB committees.

Ready to make the most of your career in architecture? Learn how to apply for an NCARB Certificate.