Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) candidates have the flexibility to test online, at a test center, or a combination of both options. Whether you test online or in-person, the exam's policies, security protocols, tools, and navigation are the same for all candidates.
Below, learn about the expectations you need to meet for testing at a physical PSI test center, or testing remotely in an online proctored appointment.
Read the ARE Guidelines
Understand all the policies you’ll need to follow in order to take the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), as well as an overview of the exam’s six divisions and other exam candidate resources.
What to Expect for an In-Person Exam Appointment
When testing at a physical PSI test center, you should be ready to:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Present a valid photo ID (the name on the ID must match the name your division is scheduled under, and the ID must include your signature)
- Store your personal items in a locker or secure storage bag
- Complete a security screening, which includes being scanned with a hand-held metal detector wand
For more details on this process, including a full list of accepted forms of ID, see the ARE 5.0 Guidelines.
What to Expect for an Online Appointment
Before every online proctored appointment, be sure to take a free test run appointment to ensure that your testing setup meets NCARB and PSI's requirements.
When testing with PSI via online proctoring, you should be ready to:
- Check in at least 30 minutes early
- Present a valid photo ID (the name on the ID must match the name your division is scheduled under, and the ID must include your signature)
- Have your picture taken
- Complete a security screening
- Present a 360-degree view of your testing area
- Leave your personal items outside the secure, online-proctored area
Learn more about how to prepare for your ARE 5.0 online proctored appointment.
Technical Difficulties
If you see an error message or experience a computer problem while you’re taking the exam, let the test center staff or online proctor know immediately. Do not clear the error message. If the technical difficulties cannot be resolved quickly, your exam will be rescheduled at no cost.
Reporting Concerns
If you have any testing concerns after your appointment, be sure to file a report with the test center administrator/online proctor AND contact us immediately to let us know. Do NOT wait until you receive your test results to contact us. Concerns must be received within 15 days of your appointment date.
Testing Accommodations
Do you have a medical condition or situation that requires accommodations? NCARB is committed to ensuring the availability of reasonable ADA accommodations by making feasible modifications to our examination procedures for candidates with documented conditions, including pregnancy and breastfeeding.
NCARB also offers accommodations for candidates who speak or read English as a second language. Learn how to apply for accommodations.
IMPORTANT: Accommodations must be approved prior to scheduling an exam appointment.
In order to protect exam security, maintain the validity of the exam, and meet the overall delivery capabilities of the ARE, there are limits to the accommodations that NCARB and PSI are able to provide. Common examples of reasonable accommodations include additional breaks, extended testing time (up to 50 percent longer), and testing in a separate room within the test center.
For a full list of pre-approved medical devices and other personal items you may take into the testing room, please read the ARE 5.0 Guidelines.
