How to Become a Licensed Architect: Education, Exams, and Requirements Explained
If architecture is considered “nonprofessional” by federal policy, what does it actually take to become a licensed architect?
The answer: years of education, hands-on experience, and rigorous testing.
Step 1 — Education
Most architects begin with a degree from a NAAB-accredited program, including:
Bachelor of Architecture
Master of Architecture
Doctor of Architecture
In many states, including Michigan, this is required for licensure.
Step 2 — Real-World Experience (AXP)
Candidates must complete at least 1,860 hours through tNCARB’s Architectural Experience Program (AXP).
This includes work in:
Project management
Design
Construction documentation
Step 3 — The ARE Exams
To become licensed, candidates must pass six exams covering:
Practice Management
Project Management
Programming + Analysis
Planning + Design
Development + Documentation
Construction + Evaluation
On average, it takes 12.9 years from starting school to becoming licensed.
How Difficult Is It?
Only ~2% pass all exams on the first try
Average pass rate is ~55%
This highlights the rigor required to enter the profession.
Next: Is this process creating barriers for future architects? - coming soon
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Source
NCARB. (n.d.). AXP guidelines.https://www.ncarb.org
NCARB. (n.d.). ARE pass rates.https://www.ncarb.org
NCARB. (2025). State of licensure.https://www.ncarb.org
