How to become a licensed architect in Washington, WA

To become a licensed architect in Washington, WA, you must first complete a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). This typically involves completing a five-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) or a two-year Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program. After completing your degree, you must gain practical experience through an internship or apprenticeship program. The Washington State Board for Architects, Landscape Architects, and Professional Engineers requires a minimum of 3,740 hours of experience, which must be documented and verified by a licensed architect.

Once you have completed your education and practical experience, you must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), which is a comprehensive exam that tests your knowledge and skills in various areas of architecture. The exam consists of six divisions, which can be taken in any order and must be completed within a five-year period. You must also pass the Washington State Supplemental Exam, which tests your knowledge of state-specific laws and regulations.

After passing the exams, you must apply for licensure with the Washington State Board for Architects, Landscape Architects, and Professional Engineers. This involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing documentation of your education, experience, and exam scores. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a license to practice architecture in the state of Washington.

In addition to obtaining a license, architects in Washington must also complete continuing education requirements to maintain their license. This involves completing a certain number of hours of approved coursework or professional development activities every two years. Failure to meet these requirements can result in disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of your license.