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Natalie Perri

Overview of the ARE Registration Exam for Architects: How It Works

The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a professional licensure examination adopted by all 55 U.S. jurisdictions (50 states, plus five territories and districts). The exam is essential for any architecture professional aiming to offer their services independently, as being licensed is a legal requirement in the U.S.


The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) developed and administers this multi-part exam. The ARE assesses candidates in specific areas related to the practice of architecture and aims to establish adequate competence to practice independently and ensure public health, safety, and welfare are protected in the process.


ARE Registration Exam for Architects: How It Works

Structure of the Exam

The ARE comprises six divisions structured to reflect the current practice of architecture. The six divisions are:

  1. Practice Management

  2. Project Management

  3. Programming & Analysis

  4. Project Planning & Design

  5. Project Development & Documentation

  6. Construction & Evaluation

Candidates may opt to take the six divisions in any order. Each division is designed as a standalone exam and blends various question types to test a candidate's capability effectively. The exam includes multiple-choice, check-all-that-apply, fill-in-the-blank, hot-spot, and drag-and-place questions, and case studies.


A candidate completes the ARE when they have passed all six divisions. The maximum time limit implemented by NCARB is five years.


Eligibility for the Exam

Before being able to sit for the ARE, each candidate is required to meet specific prerequisites determined by their chosen board of architecture. Common requirements often include completing a professional degree in architecture and gaining relevant work experience. The actual specifics can, however, vary across different jurisdictions.


Preparation for the ARE

There is a range of resources available to help candidates prepare for the ARE. The NCARB offers an ARE 5.0 Handbook, interactive guides, video resources, and community discussion boards where they can engage with other test takers or licensed experts. Other organizations and online platforms also offer study materials and practice tests for the ARE.


Cost of the ARE

The cost for each division of the ARE is $235, therefore, the total cost for all six divisions is $1410.* This excludes any fees that may be charged by a candidate's jurisdiction's architectural licensing board.

*Check NCARB's Website for the most up-to-date prices


Post-Exam and Licensure

Upon passing the exam, along with meeting other necessary requirements such as the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), candidates can apply for a license through their jurisdiction’s architectural licensing board. After this, they become licensed architects who can legally practice independently in their jurisdiction.


The ARE is a key milestone in every architect's professional journey. Beyond proving their knowledge and competence, achieving licensure through the ARE is an architect's gateway to independently providing services and positively impacting built environments, proving their commitment to protecting public health, safety, and welfare.


The path to becoming a licensed architect through the ARE can be challenging, but with diligent preparation, a strong understanding of architecture practices, and perseverance, candidates can achieve success.




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