Banner: License Finder

License Finder

License Finder

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: $300 every two years. License Fee: Regulatory package was approved that increases the fee starting July 2, 2023. Examination Frequency: ARE: by computer, Monday-Saturday at most locations; CSE: by computer, Monday-Saturday. 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 for a total of five net years. Work experience must be under the direct supervision of an architect; CSE:the preceding experience requirements, completion of the NCARB ARE, and completion of a structured internship program (NCARB Architectural Experience Program). Licensure: 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: In order to renew a license, individuals must complete five (5) hours of comtinuing education (CE) on disability access requirements. An additional five (5) hours CE on Zero Net Carbon Design. 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), Sections 5500-5610.7. California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Chapter 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
Continuing Education No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Criminal Record No criminal record prohibitions
Education No educational requirements
Exam Third-party exam required
License Type Register with licensing agency
License Updated 08/09/2023
Back to Results