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Architects (Architectural Practice)
License Description Fees: Application for Eligibility Evaluation: $100; National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Architect Registration Examination (ARE): $235 per division - six divisions; California Supplemental Exam (CSE): $100; License: $400 every two years. Examination Frequency: ARE: by computer, Monday-Saturday at most locations; CSE: by computer, Monday-Saturday at most locations. Exam Locations: ARE: numerous locations throughout California, as well as locations across the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico, and in Canada; CSE: nearly 40 locations throughout California and across the U.S. Experience Requirements: ARE: five net years of experience through: education or training (work) experience, or a combination of each. Work experience must be under the direct supervision of an architect; CSE: the preceding experience requirements, completion of the NCARB ARE, and completion of the NCARB Architectural Experience Program. Licensure: successful completion of the CSE and its preceding requirements, and submission of fingerprints for a criminal background clearance. Average Time to Process Application: 30 days or less for Application for Eligibility Evaluation or California Architect Reciprocity Application. Approximately 30 days or less for Application for Licensure – dependent upon receipt of DOJ and FBI clearances to issue a license. Renewal Period: Biennial (odd years) on the last day of an individual's birth month. Special License Requirements: To renew a license, architects must complete five (5) hours of continuing education (CE) on disability access requirements and an additional five (5) hours CE on Zero Net Carbon Design for a total of 10 CE hours. Compliance with U.S. and state tax requirements and family support. Exceptions for license are listed in BPC section 5537 which summarized are: 1) single-family woodframe construction not more than two stories and basement in height; 2) multiple dwellings containing not more than four dwelling units of woodframe construction not more than two stories and basement in height. No more than four dwelling units per lot; 3) garages or other structures appurtenant to single-family dwelling, of woodframe construction not more than two stories and basement in height; 4) agricultural and ranch buildings of woodframe construction, etc. Authority: Business and Professions Code (BPC), Division 3, Chapter 3, Sections 5500-5610.7. California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Division 2, Sections 100-160.
Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs
California Architects Board
2420 Del Paso Road, Suite 105
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 574 7220
cab@dca.ca.gov
Active Status Active
License Type Register with licensing agency
License Updated 05/22/2024
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