On April 30, 2023, NCARB’s rolling clock policy for the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) was retired, and a new score validity policy went into effect. However, some jurisdictions incorporated NCARB’s rolling clock policy into their requirements. If you’re seeking licensure from one of those jurisdictions, here’s what you need to know about how this policy change will (or won’t) impact you.

What is the rolling clock?

The rolling clock was a policy that places a five-year time limit on the validity of passed ARE divisions for candidates who were not finished testing. Once you’ve completed all ARE divisions, scores were no longer subject to the rolling clock. Get answers to common questions about the rolling clock retirement.

What is the new score validity policy?

The score validity policy is based on versions of the exam rather than a set period of time. Under the score validity policy, passed exam divisions:

  • Will remain valid throughout the delivery of the version of the exam under which they were taken (e.g., ARE 5.0), AND
  • Will be used to establish appropriate credits under the next version of the exam (likely ARE 6.0)

However, the rolling clock will continue to be in effect for you if you are seeking licensure from a jurisdiction that has a rolling clock requirement.

How do I know if my jurisdiction has a rolling clock requirement?

Jurisdictions have been working to remove their rolling clock requirements. View a list of current jurisdictions with a rolling clock requirement.

Why does my jurisdiction have a rolling clock requirement?

Some jurisdictions incorporated NCARB’s national policy into their statutes or regulations—the documents that outline the requirements for licensure in that jurisdiction. Changing those requirements often involves public comment periods, legislative or governor review, or other regulatory steps. Because of this, jurisdictions can’t remove these requirements overnight; changes could take months in some cases.

My jurisdiction has a rolling clock impediment. Are they working to update their regulations to remove it?

Each of the jurisdictions with a rolling clock requirement has begun working to update its regulatory language as necessary, but this process can take time and effort. NCARB will update you if your jurisdiction changes its requirement. If you have any questions, reach out to your board for more information.

What will happen to my exam scores when my jurisdiction changes their requirement?

Until your jursidiction changes its requirement, you will continue to see your rolling clock expiration dates reflected in your NCARB Record and on your exam score reports. When your jurisdiction updates its requirements, NCARB will remove the rolling clock information from your Record and future score reports, and any expired ARE 4.0 divisions will be reinstated.

Questions? Ask our experts on the ARE 5.0 Community or contact us.