Candidate and Architect Resources

Whether you’re working to become an architect, are already licensed in the United States, or began your architecture career internationally, NCARB has resources that can help you take the next steps toward licensure and NCARB certification.

Licensure Resources

Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®) Guidelines: Explore the ins and outs of earning and recording professional experience by reviewing the AXP Guidelines. In the Guidelines, you’ll find an overview of each experience area and setting, as well as a list of tasks for each experience area that you must be able to perform competently prior to licensure. We also have a suite of supervisor resources that you can share with your AXP supervisor.
Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) Guidelines: As you prepare to take the national licensing exam, be sure to review the latest ARE Guidelines for updated exam policies, security requirements, and recommended study resources. The current version of the exam, ARE 5.0, features six divisions that align with the AXP’s experience areas.
Free Practice Exams: NCARB offers a free version of each division that’s just like the real thing—get a better idea of how ready you are to test, which topics you need to study more, and how exam questions are phrased by taking the practice exams.
Licensing Requirements Tool: Use our Licensing Requirements Tool to better understand the specific requirements for licensure where you live, as well as the requirements in other jurisdictions!
Find Your Local Licensing Advisor: Your local architect licensing advisors can help guide you on your journey to earning a license, including navigating state-specific requirements. Use our Licensing Advisor Lookup Tool to find someone you can go to for advice and encouragement along the way.

Post-Licensure Resources

NCARB Certification Guidelines: The NCARB Certificate facilitates licensure across borders, provides access to free continuing education, and more. Learn how to get certified by downloading our Certification Guidelines
Education Alternative: If you don’t have a degree from an accredited architecture program, you can still get certified through one of our education alternative pathways.
Continuing Education: NCARB publishes new continuing education courses each month, which you can take online from the comfort of your home or office. Free for NCARB Certificate holders, and $25 for non-certified architects!
Supervisor Resources: If you’re supervising a candidate who’s navigating the experience program, be sure to review our suite of resources for AXP supervisors—including how-to tutorials, a free training course worth CE credit, and more.
International Reciprocity: Through the NCARB Certificate, NCARB offers international reciprocity in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Learn how you can expand your reach internationally.

International Applicants

Foreign Architect Path: For individuals who have a license to practice architecture in a country outside the United States or Canada, our Foreign Architect Path to Certification can simplify the process of becoming licensed in a U.S. jurisdiction. Plus, check out this manual for a detailed explanation of the process.
Foreign Educated Path: If you earned your architectural education abroad but aren’t licensed, you can meet the education requirement for licensure by having an EESA evaluation. Not sure which path is right for you? Learn more.