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

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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 can retest 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:
  5. Submit your license application:
    • Online
      1. Get your Architect Law Review Exam ready for upload.
      2. You need a SecureAccess Washington (SAW) login to renew online. Log in or sign up with SAW to get started, apply, and pay fees.
    • By mail
      • Send us all of the following:
      • Please allow 7 – 10 business days, not including mailing time, to process your application.

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