Texas Architect License: Requirements and Application Process

Architects in Texas are required to obtain a license from the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) in order to practice their profession. The TBAE is responsible for regulating the practice of architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture in the state of Texas. The board's mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by ensuring that only qualified individuals are licensed to practice architecture in Texas.

To become a licensed architect in Texas, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements, as well as pass a series of exams. The educational requirement includes a professional degree in architecture from an accredited program, or a combination of education and experience that is deemed equivalent by the board. Additionally, candidates must complete a minimum of three years of practical experience working under the supervision of a licensed architect.

Once the education and experience requirements have been met, candidates must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) in order to obtain their license. The ARE is a comprehensive exam that tests candidates on their knowledge of the principles and practices of architecture. Upon passing the exam and meeting all other requirements, candidates can apply for their license from the TBAE.

Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed architect in Texas, individuals must meet certain requirements set by the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE). The licensing requirements include education, examination, and experience.

Education Requirement

Individuals must have a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) or have completed an equivalent education as determined by the TBAE.

Architect Registration Examination

To become a licensed architect in Texas, individuals must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). The ARE is a multi-division exam that assesses an individual's knowledge and skills related to the practice of architecture. The exam is administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).

Architectural Experience Program

In addition to education and examination, individuals must complete the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). The AXP is a comprehensive training program that provides individuals with the opportunity to gain practical experience in various areas of architecture. The program is administered by NCARB and requires individuals to complete a minimum of 3,740 hours of experience in six practice areas.

It is important to note that the requirements for licensure may change at any time, so individuals are encouraged to check with the TBAE for the most up-to-date information.

The Application Process

To become a licensed architect in Texas, candidates must follow a specific application process. This section will outline the steps to apply for an architect license in Texas, including how to apply, the NCARB record, and state registration.

How to Apply

To apply for an architect license in Texas, candidates must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Candidates must have a professional architectural degree from a school or college accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Additionally, candidates must have completed a minimum of three years (or 6,000 hours) of practical experience in the design and construction industry under the direct supervision of a licensed architect.

After meeting the educational and experience requirements, candidates can apply for a Texas architect license through the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) website. The application fee is $310, and there is a $100 fee for each additional license type. Candidates must also pay a $50 criminal background check fee and a $25 fee for each exam they are taking.

NCARB Record

Before applying for a Texas architect license, candidates must establish an NCARB Record. The NCARB Record is a comprehensive record of a candidate's education, experience, and examination history. The NCARB Record is used to facilitate the reciprocal licensure process between states and to track a candidate's progress toward licensure.

To establish an NCARB Record, candidates must create an account on the NCARB website and provide documentation of their education and experience. The NCARB Record costs $100 to establish and $85 annually to maintain.

State Registration

After meeting the educational and experience requirements and establishing an NCARB Record, candidates can apply for a Texas architect license through the TBAE website. The TBAE will review the application and determine if the candidate meets the requirements for licensure. If approved, the candidate will be issued a Texas architect license.

In conclusion, the application process to become a licensed architect in Texas involves meeting specific educational and experience requirements, establishing an NCARB Record, and applying for a Texas architect license through the TBAE website. Candidates should ensure that they meet all requirements and provide accurate documentation to expedite the application process.

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

The Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) is the state agency responsible for regulating the practice of architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture in Texas. The TBAE is committed to ensuring that Texas has a highly qualified and ethical design community that protects the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Mission and Vision

The TBAE's mission is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by regulating the practice of architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture in Texas. The TBAE's vision is to be the leading regulatory agency in the United States, recognized for excellence in protecting the public and promoting the highest standards of professional practice.

Contact the Board

The TBAE's mailing address is P.O. Box 12337, Austin, TX 78711. The TBAE's physical address is 505 E. Huntland Drive, Suite 350, Austin, TX 78752. The TBAE can be reached by phone at (512) 305-9000 or by fax at (512) 305-8900. The TBAE's website is tbae.texas.gov.

The TBAE is governed by a board of nine members appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate. The board consists of six architects, one interior designer, one landscape architect, and one public member. The board is responsible for setting policy and making decisions on licensing, enforcement, and other matters related to the practice of architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture in Texas.

Continuing Education and Renewal

Continuing Education Requirements

Texas architects are required to complete 12 hours of Continuing Education Program Hours (CEPH) annually. At least one of the 12 hours must be related to barrier-free design. All 12 CEPHs must qualify as Health, Safety & Welfare (HSW) credits.

Continuing Education courses can be taken in-person or online, as long as they are approved by the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE). Architects must ensure that they complete their required CEPHs before their license renewal date.

License Renewal Process

Architects in Texas must renew their license every two years. The renewal process involves completing the renewal application, paying the renewal fee, and completing the mandatory Continuing Education requirements.

If the architect fails to renew their license by the expiration date, they can pay a late fee to renew their license within 90 days. If the license is not renewed within 90 days, but within two years of the expiration date, the architect can still renew their license by paying a higher late fee.

If the license is not renewed within two years of the expiration date, the architect must reapply for licensure. The TBAE may also audit architects to confirm that they have completed their mandatory Continuing Education requirements.

Architects in Texas should ensure that they stay up-to-date with the renewal requirements to avoid any complications with their license renewal.

Reciprocity and Additional Credentials

Architects licensed in other jurisdictions can obtain a license to practice in Texas through a process called reciprocal licensure. This process allows architects to bypass some of the requirements that would be required if they were applying for a new license. It is important to note that not all states have a reciprocity agreement with Texas, and the requirements for licensure may vary by state.

Reciprocal Licensure

To obtain a reciprocal license in Texas, the applicant must have a license in good standing from another jurisdiction that has licensing or registration requirements that are substantially equivalent to those in Texas. Alternatively, the applicant may have entered into a reciprocity agreement with the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners that has been approved by the Governor of Texas.

NCARB Certificate

The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) is a non-profit organization that facilitates reciprocity among the 55 U.S. jurisdictions, including Texas. The easiest way for an architect to obtain a reciprocal license in Texas is by earning an NCARB Certificate. This credential allows architects to apply for reciprocal licensure in the 54 jurisdictions that participate in the NCARB Certificate program.

Landscape architects and interior designers are not eligible for reciprocal licensure in Texas. However, they may be able to obtain a license through the reciprocal transfer process. This process allows an applicant to obtain a license in Texas if they have a license in good standing from another jurisdiction that has licensing or registration requirements that are substantially equivalent to those in Texas.

In summary, architects can obtain a license to practice in Texas through reciprocal licensure or by earning an NCARB Certificate. The requirements for licensure may vary by state, so it is important to check with the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners or the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards for the most up-to-date information. Landscape architects and interior designers may be able to obtain a license through the reciprocal transfer process.