Path to Licensure
Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®)
Resources and information to help emerging professionals
prepare for and complete the Architect Registration Examination.
The Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), developed by the
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB),
assesses the knowledge and skills needed to practice architecture
safely and competently. The ARE is required by all U.S.
architectural licensing jurisdictions as part of the path to
becoming a licensed architect.
The examination is organized into six divisions that reflect
the progression of a typical architecture project and the
responsibilities of practicing architects.
6
ARE 5.0 exam divisions
$263
Current fee per exam division
55
U.S. architectural licensing jurisdictions
Taking the ARE in Florida
Florida Registration Board Requirements
Florida examination candidates generally begin the process
through NCARB. Candidates must establish an NCARB Record and
meet Florida's eligibility requirements before receiving
authorization to take the ARE.
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Establish an NCARB Record.
Your NCARB Record documents your education, experience,
examination progress and other information used during
the licensure process.
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Complete or participate in the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®).
The AXP provides the professional experience required
along the path to licensure.
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Request ARE eligibility.
Once you meet the applicable requirements, request
eligibility to test through your NCARB Record.
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Complete all six ARE divisions.
Candidates may schedule eligible divisions through their
NCARB Record.
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Apply for Florida licensure.
After satisfying Florida's education, experience and
examination requirements, follow the Florida Board of
Architecture and Interior Design's application process.
Florida Licensure Requirements
ARE 5.0 Divisions
ARE 5.0 is organized into six divisions covering the major
responsibilities and phases of architectural practice.
Practice Management
PcM
Project Management
PjM
Programming & Analysis
PA
Project Planning & Design
PPD
Project Development & Documentation
PDD
Construction & Evaluation
CE
NCARB ARE Resources
ARE 5.0 Guidelines
Review NCARB's current ARE policies, exam procedures,
scheduling information, testing requirements and
division content.
View ARE Guidelines
NCARB Study Resources
Access official study resources, exam information and
preparation materials directly from NCARB.
Explore Study Resources
AIA Florida ARE Resources
ARE Study Resources
Review AIA Florida's collection of study materials
and resources recommended for ARE candidates.
View Study Resources
ARE Panel Recording
Hear from architects and emerging professionals about
preparing for the ARE, study strategies and lessons
learned during the licensure process.
Watch the Recording
AIA Florida ARE Scholarship
AIA Florida's ARE Scholarship helps emerging professionals
on the path to licensure offset costs associated with the
Architect Registration Examination. Selected recipients may
receive support for up to two ARE seat credits.
Before You Schedule an Exam
Use the Latest NCARB Information
ARE policies and testing procedures can change. Before
scheduling an exam, candidates should review the current
ARE 5.0 Guidelines and information in their NCARB Record.
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ARE appointments are available at approved PSI test
centers and through online proctoring.
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Online-proctored exams have specific computer,
testing-space and camera requirements.
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Rescheduling and cancellation policies may include
deadlines and fees.
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Candidates should confirm current fees and policies
directly with NCARB before purchasing or scheduling
an exam seat.
Visit NCARB ARE Information
Additional ARE Preparation
Amber Book ARE Prep
Amber Book offers ARE preparation and study resources
for candidates working toward licensure. Visit Amber
Book for current program information, pricing and
available member offers.
Visit Amber Book
Architectural Experience Program®
The ARE and AXP are key parts of the licensure process.
Visit AIA Florida's AXP page for information and
resources related to documenting professional experience.
Explore AXP
Exam fees, policies and testing requirements are established by
NCARB and are subject to change. Candidates should verify current
requirements with NCARB and the Florida Board of Architecture and
Interior Design.