Related Links

• American Institute of Architecture Students
• National Architectural Accrediting Board
• Canadian Architectural Certification Board
• ARCHcareers.org
• Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture
• National Association of Credential Evaluation Services
• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
• American Institute of Architects

Licensing is Key

The role of architects is not just to design buildings; architects protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.

Protecting Public Safety

Architects have a professional responsibility to design buildings that are safe to occupy. The importance of safety cannot be overemphasized - especially in a densely populated state like California, prone to earthquakes, mudslides, wildfires and floods. Buildings must be able to withstand the forces of natural (and other) disasters, as well as the day-to-day demands of occupancy/use.

This is why architects, like medical doctors and others with a high level of responsibility for public safety, must be licensed in any state where they are practicing. Sometimes other states use the term "registered" architect, as opposed to licensed.

Personal and Professional Validation

Many highly skilled people are employed in the building professions, performing drafting, code research and other tasks that are part of the design process. But they are not "architects" unless they have a valid architect license.

Obtaining your architect license is worth it! It's an official, tangible validation of your hard work and professional abilities.

Licensure in California

In California, as in other states, the law prohibits you from calling yourself an architect or practicing architecture unless you have been granted a license by the California Architects Board (Board).

To become licensed, you must meet the education, experience and examination requirements established by the Board, and as described in this Web site.