How to get your license: Architect by direct registration with NCARB

If you have an accredited bachelor's or master's degree in architecture from a university recognized by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB):

1. Work directly with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) (ncarb.org) to complete your:
   • Architect Experience Program (AXP) training (formerly IDP).
   • and
   • Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
2. Take and pass all divisions of the ARE.
   • If you don't pass a division of the exam the first time, you may continue to take it until you pass. However, after you pass your first division, you must pass all divisions of the exam within 5 years.
3. After successfully completing the AXP and ARE, have NCARB transmit your record to our office.
4. Complete, sign and date an Architect Law Review. You must score 100% to pass the exam, which covers:
   • RCW 18.08
   • RCW 18.235
   • WAC 308-12
5. Submit your license application, either online or by mail:
   • Online
     1. Prepare completed Architect Law Review Exam from step 4 above for upload. See Uploading Document Instructions for help.
     2. Login and follow the on-screen instructions to submit and pay your application and 2-year license fees.
        • During this process, you will upload your completed Architect Law Review Exam (step 4 above).
6. By mail
   • Send us all of the following:
     • A completed Architect Registration Initial Application.
     • A completed, signed, and dated Architect Law Review (step 4 above).
     • A check or money order, payable to the Department of Licensing, for the application and 2-year license fees.

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