Florida Architect License: Requirements and Application Process

Florida Architect License is a certification that allows architects to practice in the state of Florida. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is responsible for regulating the practice of architecture in the state. The DBPR ensures that architects are qualified and competent to practice in Florida.

To obtain a Florida Architect License, an individual must meet certain requirements. These requirements include completing a professional degree in architecture from an accredited school, passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), and completing the required number of internship hours. Additionally, applicants must pass a Florida-specific examination on the laws, rules, and regulations governing the practice of architecture in the state.

The State of Florida takes the regulation of architecture seriously. The DBPR is committed to ensuring that only qualified and competent architects are licensed to practice in Florida. By obtaining a Florida Architect License, architects can demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the profession.

Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed architect in Florida, candidates must meet specific requirements related to education, examination, and licensure. The Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design oversees the licensure process and sets the guidelines for obtaining a license.

Education and NAAB Accreditation

To be eligible for Florida licensure, candidates must hold a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). The NAAB is the only agency authorized to accredit professional degree programs in architecture in the United States. Candidates must have a minimum of a five-year Bachelor's or Master's degree in architecture from a NAAB-accredited program.

Examination

Candidates must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to become licensed in Florida. The ARE is a multi-division exam that tests candidates' knowledge and skills in various areas of architecture, such as site planning, building systems, and construction documents. The exam is administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and is designed to assess whether candidates have the knowledge and skills required to practice architecture safely and competently.

Licensure by Endorsement

Florida also offers licensure by endorsement for architects who are already licensed in another state or jurisdiction. Candidates must meet specific requirements related to education, experience, and examination to be eligible for licensure by endorsement in Florida. They must hold a professional degree in architecture from a NAAB-accredited program, have passed the ARE, and have a minimum of three years of experience in the field. Candidates must also complete two hours of board-approved wind mitigation techniques.

In conclusion, obtaining a Florida architect license requires candidates to meet specific requirements related to education, examination, and licensure. Candidates must hold a professional degree in architecture from a NAAB-accredited program, pass the ARE, and meet specific requirements related to experience and examination for licensure by endorsement. The Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design oversees the licensure process and sets the guidelines for obtaining a license.

Registration Process

Becoming a licensed architect in Florida requires a specific process that must be followed. The registration process involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and meeting specific requirements.

Application Submission

To apply for an architecture license in Florida, applicants must submit an application to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The application must include proof of completion of a minimum five-year Professional Bachelor's or Master's degree in architecture accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

Applicants must also provide proof of completion for two (2) hours of board-approved wind mitigation techniques. The architecture state endorsement application must also be completed and submitted.

Fees and Renewal

The fee for submitting an application for an architecture license in Florida is $200. The renewal fee for an architecture license is $155. The license renewal period is open from December 1 of the odd-numbered year to February 28 of the following year.

Florida Statutes require that architects must renew their licenses every two years. The renewal process involves submitting a renewal application and paying the renewal fee. The DBPR will send a notification that the renewal period is open 90-120 days before the expiration of the license. All notices will be provided via email.

In conclusion, the registration process for becoming a licensed architect in Florida involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and meeting specific requirements. It is important to note that architects must renew their licenses every two years and pay the renewal fee to maintain their license.

Continuing Education

Florida architects are required to complete Continuing Education (CE) every two years to maintain their license. The CE requirements are set by the Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design, and failure to meet them can result in the suspension or revocation of an architect's license.

CE Requirements

Florida architects are required to complete 24 hours of CE every two years, with a deadline of December 31st of even years. Architects must obtain their CE hours between January 1st of the year following the renewal period and December 31st of the renewal period. Architects must also renew their license by February 28th of the odd year following the renewal period.

HSW and Advanced Florida Building Code Credits

Of the 24 required CE hours, at least 22 hours must be Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW)-related. These courses must be approved by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) or the Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design. The remaining two hours must be on an Advanced Module of the Florida Building Code.

Architects can take all 24 CE hours in online courses. The AIA offers a transcript service that tracks an architect's CE credits, which can be used to verify compliance with the Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design's requirements.

In conclusion, Florida architects must complete 24 hours of CE every two years, with a deadline of December 31st of even years. At least 22 hours must be HSW-related, and the remaining two hours must be on an Advanced Module of the Florida Building Code. Architects can take all 24 CE hours in online courses, and the AIA transcript service can be used to verify compliance with the Florida Board of Architecture and Interior Design's requirements.

Regulatory Compliance

Florida Law and Ethics

To obtain a Florida architect license, one must comply with Florida law and ethics. Florida law requires all professionals to comply with Chapter 455, F.S., which outlines the requirements for licensure, discipline, and regulation of professions and occupations. The Board of Architecture and Interior Design is responsible for enforcing these requirements and ensuring that licensed architects adhere to ethical standards.

Architects must also comply with the rules set forth by the Board of Architecture, which outline the standards of professional conduct and practice. The rules cover issues such as advertising, fees, contracts, and client relations. Architects must also maintain their continuing education requirements to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest developments in their field.

Disciplinary Actions

The Board of Architecture and Interior Design has the authority to discipline architects who violate Florida law or the rules set forth by the Board of Architecture. Disciplinary actions can range from fines and reprimands to suspension or revocation of a license.

Architects who are subject to disciplinary action have the right to a hearing, where they can present evidence and argue their case. The Board of Architecture and Interior Design has the jurisdiction to investigate complaints against architects and take appropriate action to protect the public.

In summary, architects seeking licensure in Florida must comply with Florida law and ethics, as well as the rules set forth by the Board of Architecture. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in disciplinary action by the Board of Architecture and Interior Design.

Professional Resources

Florida architects have access to a variety of professional resources that can help them stay up-to-date on industry trends, connect with other professionals, and navigate the licensing process. Two important resources are AIA Florida and public records.

AIA Florida and Networking

AIA Florida is the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects, a professional organization that advocates for the value of architecture and provides resources for architects to improve their practice. Through AIA Florida, architects can participate in continuing education programs, attend networking events, and access resources such as job listings and design competitions.

Networking is an important part of building a successful architecture practice, and AIA Florida provides many opportunities for architects to connect with other professionals in the industry. AIA Florida hosts conferences, workshops, and social events throughout the year, giving architects the chance to meet and collaborate with others in the field.

Public Records and Communication

Florida law requires that all government records be made available to the public upon request, including records related to the licensing of architects. Architects can request public records related to their license status, continuing education requirements, and other information by contacting the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Customer Contact Center.

Architects can make public-records requests through electronic mail or traditional mail. It's important to note that public-records requests must be specific and detailed, and that the Department of Business and Professional Regulation has the right to charge a fee for fulfilling the request.

In addition to public-records requests, architects can also communicate with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Customer Contact Center to get answers to questions about licensing requirements, renewals, and other issues related to their practice. The Customer Contact Center can be reached by phone or email, and is staffed by knowledgeable professionals who can provide guidance and support to architects as they navigate the licensing process.