A foreigner with architecture bachelor degree, how to get the California architect license? ?

Question

I am a foreigner with an Architecture degree, 6 years working experience (3 years in CA). What's the best and quickest way for me to become a California licensed architect?

Where can I find more info online? What are the exams I should take? And where do I register for these exams?

Thanks a lot!

Answer 1

Hi!   And... welcome to California!

I think this is what you're looking for:

California Architects Board

*How can I obtain a license?

http://www.cab.ca.gov/candidates/faq_can...

*Architect Registration Examination (ARE)

http://www.cab.ca.gov/candidates/are.sht...

*California Supplemental Examination (CSE)

http://www.cab.ca.gov/candidates/cse.sht...

More information:

http://www.cab.ca.gov/

I wish you the best of luck:)

Answer 2

It depends on where you have your degree from.  Luckily for you, architectural candidates are not required to have professional degrees to take the ARE.  However, that only adds to the years of service under a licensed architect requirement.  They will not accept your experience in a foreign office.  You may want to plead your case with the California Architects Board, you may qualify to get 50% credit.  Get your file started with CAB and NCARB at the same time.  The CAB will notify you when you are qualified to take the exams.

The ARE is now in version 4.0 and the test are down from 9 exams to 7.  The ARE tests are really easy if you commercial work experience.  The California Supplemental Exam is something else.  You really have to know a lot about everything from office practice, contract administration and law.