Architect Licensure

ARE EDUCATION

In October 2008, AIA Seattle will offer a new ARE Prep education series, with monthly classes, tours, and study sessions providing techniques for successfuly passing the ARE exam 4.0. A draft schedule of the series is available to the right. To receive information about this series, email Debra Haraldson.

ARE STUDY RESOURCES
Study library at AIA Seattle: AIA Seattle members have free access to ARE exam 4.0 study materials at the AIA office and online. Hard copy study materials have been purchased from Kaplan AEC Education and Professional Publications, Inc. Study material, including flash cards, cover the following topics:

Building Design & Construction Systems
Building Systems
Construction Documents & Services
Programming, Planning & Practice
Schematic Design
Site Planning & Design
Structural Systems

These materials are available to students of the ARE prep class and to all interested AIA Seattle members. They can be used only at AIA Seattle during normal business hours (10am - 5pm, Mon-Fri.) To use this material, email Debra Haraldson to schedule the conference room.

AIA Seattle members have free online access to Kaplan: AIA Seattle members also have free access to on-line materials on Kaplan's web site. Call or email Debra Haraldson to receive a user ID and password to access the site.

NCARB also has free study guides and practice exams.

PRACTICING ARCHITECTURE IN WASHINGTON STATE
In Washington, only licensed architects may represent themselves using the title "architect" or engage in the practice of architecture as defined by law. Requirements for licensure include a combination of education and practical experience, and passage of a qualifying exam (the Architect Registration Exam/ARE). Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing for information on licensure for architects.

ARCHITECTURAL LICENSING PROCESS
Step 1: IDP
At or after completion of architectural education, the Intern Development Program, administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), provides structure to the required practical training experience. The Washington State Board of Registration for Architects now allows completion of IDP simultaneous with sitting for the exam.

Step 2: The Architectural Registration Examination (ARE)
Registration to practice architecture in Washington State requires passage of the ARE. Through NCARB's arrangements, eligible candidates may take the computerized exam, administered at three Washington locations as well as many others throughout the US, Canada, and US Territories. The exam includes 9 sections, each offered separately.

LINKS
AIA Emerging Professionals Website
Emerging Professionals Companion Resource Center
Licensing overview from NCARB
Intern Development Program
National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB)
Washington State Department of Licensing
Architectural Registration Examination (ARE)
ARE Study Guides
Downloadable ARE Exam Application

American Institute of Architects Seattle

Architect Licensure