NCARB and the ARE
About NCARB
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards’ membership is made up of the architectural licensing boards of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. NCARB, in collaboration with these boards, facilitates the licensure and credentialing of architects to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
To achieve these goals, NCARB works with its Member Boards and volunteers to develop and facilitate standards for licensure, including the national examination and experience program. NCARB also recommends regulatory guidelines for licensing boards and helps architects expand their professional reach through the NCARB Certificate.
What is the ARE?
The Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) is developed by NCARB. The ARE is used by U.S. jurisdictions as the registration examination for candidates seeking architectural registration. It is also accepted by select Canadian provincial and territorial architectural associations for registration.
The ARE assesses a candidate’s knowledge and skills to provide various services required in the practice of architecture. No single examination can test for competency in all aspects of architectural practice; the ARE is not intended for that purpose. The ARE concentrates on the professional services that affect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
In addition to testing for competence in specific subject areas, NCARB is aware of the responsibilities an architect may have for coordinating the activities of others involved in the design/construction process. The ARE assesses a candidate’s qualifications in exercising the skills and judgment of a generalist working with numerous specialists.
Want to learn more?
For more information on the ARE, eligibility requirements, and scheduling, visit NCARB.org.