During the 2024 Annual Business Meeting, NCARB’s membership approved changes to both its Bylaws and Model Law and Regulations. These changes are effective as of July 1, 2024.
Updated NCARB Bylaws
Changes to the Bylaws updated the NCARB Certificate requirement for certain positions on the Board of Directors to hold an NCARB Certificate. Prior to passing the resolution, all architects serving in any position on the Board of Directors were required to hold an NCARB Certificate. Under the updated Bylaws, only architects serving in officer positions on the Board must hold an NCARB Certificate. This change enables non-certified architects to serve on NCARB’s national Board of Directors, expanding access and removing financial impediments to service.
Updated NCARB Model Law and Regulations
Changes to the Model Law and Regulations amended the recommended national standard for access to the examination. A candidate’s exam eligibility is managed by the jurisdiction where the candidate is seeking initial licensure.
Previously, NCARB’s Model Law and Regulations recommended that candidates should earn an architecture degree from an “approved education program” (typically a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board, or NAAB) or be enrolled in an Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) option.
Under the updated Model Law and Regulations, candidates must have graduated from a state-regulated or federally regulated high school or the equivalent to gain access to the exam. This change is intended to expand access to begin testing for candidates who may not hold a degree from a NAAB-accredited program, including those who hold a two- or four-year degree in architecture, foreign architects, and other candidates pursuing a non-traditional path to licensure.
The NCARB Model Law and Regulations offer recommended regulatory language for individual jurisdictions to adapt and adopt as needed. NCARB’s updated Model Law and Regulations does not immediately impact access to exam eligibility, but NCARB hopes to see licensing boards adopt the new model language going forward.
