How to Become a Licensed Architect

[@AlexDamgaard]

Congrats. Failed the entrance exam for the architect school twice, so I decided to study graphic design instead. But I still watch your videos because they are inspiring :)

[@DrewPaulBell]

Im glad to hear they help! Thanks for the support!

[@Liv-dw6hb]

Entrance exam to go to school and learn? Lol

[@kiru_ss00]

Hello, do you know if those exams have too much mathematics?

[@Gates3Designs]

He's back! Congrats!

[@DrewPaulBell]

Thank you!

[@David-oy6ck]

thank you for being concise.

[@princeakeemofazania]

This helps a great deal I wish there were more like you who pay it forward 💪🏿💪🏿

[@DrewPaulBell]

Thank you! 👊👊

[@Franco-ck7yx]

So to be able to sell building house designs etc. I need school and to take the exam

[@10ahmedhassan]

Finally , you are back. please make a video on foreign architect registration path. I already have bachelor degree (foreign degree) in architecture and when it is evaluated by Western evaluation Services organization (WES) , it is written that it is equivalent to U.S plus I see there is a possible registration for foreign architects.

[@JonImperial]

You would need an EESA evalutation as well. That is the organization that NCARB Honors. www.ncarb.org/advance-your-career/ncarb-certificate/get-certified/education-alternative/eesa

[@kiru_ss00]

Hello, do you know if those exams have too much mathematics?

[@jasonchen2976]

My role model ❤

[@paulesparza6522]

As a builder it helped know what I should expect from my local Architects. Cause they charge between 250-500 on hr. And the clients and I always find ourselves going back for more time to clear things up.

[@muwaffaqmoinuddin403]

Thank you so much, this was extremely informative and went straight to the point :D

[@MarcoAndrade00]

yup, this is the truth. Nothing more, nothing less. Perfect.

[@jaysonjones5898]

Great video!! Very informative and concise. Thank you !!

[@TheMortalD]

Also, California Architects Board allows a NAAB 2YEAR Associates Degree apply towards a cal license. However, IDP would take about 7 years.

[@ArmyLatinoUSA]

Hello thank you for the video, what the AIA does?

[@wmh5135]

An architect told me long ago NCARB is making it difficult because there are many graduates and want to make an elite club. Your explanation explains just that. Very frustrating!

[@QueIdea]

Is it possible to fill AXP or experience before getting approved by the national architectural accrediting board NAAb?

[@aaronnewman9130]

Thank you,

[@danielmunoz7404]

Thanks Drew

[@IsabellaLoafea]

how exactly do you get experience hours?

[@kevinbrister8801]

Thanks for the info! It is very helpfull!

[@kiru_ss00]

Hello, do you know if those exams have too much mathematics?

[@lalav428]

Is it hard to find a job after school? and after getting ur license? while you are still studying and taking exams to become an architect, what kind of jobs do you take meanwhile?

[@aethelwolfe3539]

I worked as a draftsmen, and render/ BIM monkey, but I pretty much had to try and do the ARE stuff solo. And pay for it alone. I scheduled to take one of the exams, but the Covid thing really changed my life, probably for the worse in this career path.

[@benpicado4138]

I know this video is a few years old, but I just finished my architecture program in Nicaragua, but I plan on moving and working in my home state of Virginia. What special requirements would I need to complete to get my license?

[@PoolGyall5441]

I’m 13 and I find joy in making and designing houses in little apps and games I want to become an architect when I’m older not just because it would be enjoyable to create a functional home for people to reside but also I heard they make really good money which I love in Cali so money needs to decent 😂

[@froisty7167]

I'm younger than you same

[@aethelwolfe3539]

You aren’t allowed to build anything in California, I hated working on projects there.

[@aethelwolfe3539]

But on the positive side, Nevada is pretty much anything goes.

[@kiru_ss00]

@@aethelwolfe3539 Hello, do you know if those exams have too much mathematics?

[@name5206]

Congrats to you sir but I don’t understand if you get your Bachelor or masters in university or college you still have to complete a steps to get a license before you start officially working; I can’t use my master or bachelor to work as an architect.

[@aethelwolfe3539]

Depends on what your university has to offer, I would recommend getting a Bachelors of Architecture (professional five year degree >six of seven year grad school, to get more time in the market)

[@mediumoscar]

Is the process of becoming a landscape architect basically the same?

[@kiru_ss00]

Hello, do you know if those exams have too much mathematics?

[@pavlomi5055]

Great info, thanks ) If I’m a foreigner, can I get arch. license, right?

[@MrTiger0423]

Thank you for this video, I just finished my undergrad in exercise science and was going to go to physical therapy school. After some thought I decided to try architecture which is what I want to do instead of what my family wants. So to clarify, I can go get my masters in Architecture and then start the interning hours and testing once that’s done?? Thanks again for the video sir it’s really informative.

[@adamkhmer]

4 years ago I was in a similar boat as you, I graduated with a bachelors in International Studies but wanted to switch my career path and pursue architecture. I did my research and found out that there are a lot of schools through out the country that offer an M.Arch 3+ program. I applied and got accepted to a couple west coast schools (UW and ASU) and decided to go to Arizona State (the rent and way of living was cheaper than seattle). The program started in the summer after my undergrad graduation and 3 years later I have an accredit Masters of Architecture. My program didn't really recommend us to seek internship till the summer before our 3rd year in the program so I didn't really start logging in my AXP hours till then. Fast forward to today, I work for a firm in Phoenix, have all my AXP categories done except of construction/evaluation (i need 100+hrs more), and have not taken any ARE test yet. Like he said on the video, one of the toughest thing about the ARE is motivating yourself to take the exams. After getting my masters, i decided to take a break in studying (at least for any tests), and I have yet to find any motivation to crack open my ARE test materials. I am hoping to start studying for them come early next year. Sorry for the long reply but I hope this helps :)

[@DrewPaulBell]

Like +adamkhmer said, you will need to get a 3 year masters instead of a 2 year masters (since your first degree wasn’t in architecture). And then, yes, you can start logging your AXP hours. But from what I understand, you can start logging the hours before you have the degree. So if you get an internship before you graduate with the M.ARCH those hours will still go towards your internship requirements.

[@ryanmcnally4613]

I’m not good in math at all but I’m interested in being an architect. Should I do it or no?

[@Robertitohernandezoficial]

can you get an architect license with no degree? i have been working on the architectural field working on residential and commercial projects, under the supervision of license architects...I started when i was 25 AND NOW IM 41 can you advise me how can i get it done in a short time...

[@elenabeta]

Hi, very good video. Do you know if the IDP hours expire? I was working towards my IDP in 2008 when the recession hit and I had to leave the field. I know is been 10 years and many many things have change but I am crazily considering going back. I was wondering, how hard/easy it would be to star this process again. Thanks!

[@PrashanthA-k1r]

I have a 5 years B.Arch and 2 years Masters in Sustainable Architecture degree from India. Now i am in USA and What Diploma courses can i do to advance in career here in USA ? Any advice is aprreciated.

[@tconfused1950]

So I can get a degree as an associate of science or study for an electrician for 4 years and then 2 additional years for architectural classes

[@sanaa7025]

Hi Drew, should the NCARB record only be set up after a student or intern has already acquired an internship with a licensed architect?

[@DrewPaulBell]

I would recommend waiting until you have hours to log. The reason why is because you have to pay a fee to establish the record and a recurring yearly renewal fee. So let’s say you set up a record before a summer internship between two years of studio, but then the internship falls through for whatever reason and then you don’t actually get any work experience until a year later. If that happens, then you just paid for an extra year of having a record when you didn’t need it. Also, when you set it up, you are expected to have a Supervisor. This person is a licensed architect and typically your employer. That will be the person who approves your hours. I think it makes the most sense to wait until you start a job. You have 8 months to submit your experience before you start losing hours so you have time.

[@sanaa7025]

Drew Paul Bell Drew Paul Bell that makes sense! I’m just entering my second year of architecture school, so having an idea of the process of events during and after school is very helpful. Thanks so much!

[@captainkittles]

I have a bachelors in Chemistry from UC Davis, California. What would be a possible route to becoming a licensed Architect?

[@aishmahna]

Please tell. What is the procedure for a forign architect with b'arch to get registered in usa

[@alaamahmoud2274]

Very informative Do I need to complete my IDP program first before taxing the exams? Or can I take the exams then finish my axp

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yes, you can do them at the same time, “concurrently.” But you have to apply with your jurisdiction. ...they started allowing this in 2007, so you may hear conflicting stories from people who got their license before then.

[@gonzalollosa4475]

Hi Drew, Im a US citizen but got my bachelor's degree in Architecture in the University of Buenos Aires (Argentina) which is not an NAAB acredited school, but where I am a licensed architect. Since I know there are some steps to continue for foreign applicants, Im wondering If Im qualified for those programes since Im not a foreigner but I did studied in a foreign school.

[@aethelwolfe3539]

Lobby for reciprocal liscensing on the state level. Seriously that is my advise. (Or find a state that does)

[@ArmyLatinoUSA]

@@aethelwolfe3539 how that works?

[@13craj]

Differences between a PE and an architect?

[@DrewPaulBell]

A PE (Practicing Engineer) is an engineer who usually focuses on a specialty like structural engineering, mechanical (HVAC systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems) or civil (water retention and drainage, soils, utilities, etc) and their day to day work is mostly doing calculations, charts, and drawings. They are masters of specific things and very technical. Architects design buildings. Because of the nature of designing buildings an architect typically consults with engineers who focus on particular systems that have to be a part of the building in addition to designing the overall building itself. An architect understands the bigger picture of how all the elements go together, not just the engineers’ work, but also the aesthetics of the building, phasing of how it will be built, construction details, the occupants’ wants and needs and how they will use the space. An architect’s day to day will usually involve doing drawings (presentation drawings, construction drawings, etc), managing the project in meetings, selecting finishes, job site visits...there are a lot of things an architect might have to do to design a building, the list would be really long. Architects get called “a jack of all trades and a master of none,” which is an over simplification, but I bring it up because it may help you understand the difference.

[@froisty7167]

I feel like I'm the youngest one to ever watch this video hopefully I will be an architect when I grow up wish the rest of you luck

[@froisty7167]

I'm 11

[@Darwin-p1v]

I want to be an architect when I am older

[@vladimirlem1104]

Do i need a school or collage degree to work as an architecht ?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yes, but there are a few exceptions. You can work at a firm without a degree but that will likely hold you back. There are also some jurisdictions that allow you to get your architects license without a degree.

[@rtperrett]

So you got your license June of 2018, How long did it take to study?

[@DrewPaulBell]

A year and a half to two years.

[@danielmunoz7404]

Wow....... this is the SYSTEMS requirements that is pretty much telling you... WE DO NOT WANT YOU TO BECOME A LICENSE ARCHITECT! it's a joke! What is so crazy is that other future professionals don't go through the same scenarios and at the end they get payed more. Nothing against Drew or other License Architects, but Jesus Christ, 6 exams it is ridiculous! It's not only long and difficult but very expensive. If you are not a License Architect you can still design and built projects, you will be limited to the type of building and size. Not being a License Architect does not mean you can not provide services or develop projects for clients.

[@danielb4308]

I know Daniel munoz, I heard many people complaint about this, here in US architecture is an elitist degree, and at the end contractors and engineers make more money cause honestly they are more practical and useful than architects.

[@kiru_ss00]

Hello, do you know if those exams have too much mathematics?

[@itsallovernowWD1945]

Hi is there a way to get an RA without having to get masters because college expenses can be high and plus we work everyday without having the time to go to school

[@DrewPaulBell]

Certain states offer a path to licensure that involves extra years of experience hours to replace the education requirement. Check the state you’re looking to get licensed in.

[@kingplaya]

How long did it take to complete your hours?

[@DrewPaulBell]

It took me 4 years to satisfy all the categories. I actually finished my hours about a week after I finished my last exam.

[@luccisosa6185]

I gurantee you there are ways to bypass all of this bs

[@6skyboy9]

Can I prepare or study for the exam when I’m in school?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Focus on doing well in school. Nothing is stopping you from getting study guides whenever you want, but you should prioritize and execute on the task at hand.

[@6skyboy9]

Drew Paul Bell thank you very much!

[@Liv-dw6hb]

Do u have any advice on utensils, papers , matariels and programs on computer I can download to start designing from home?

[@DrewPaulBell]

The basics: trace paper (aka trash paper), pencils (I recommend 2H, 2B, and 4B to start) and an architectural graphic scale. The computer program Google Sketchup is a good place to start as well!

[@Liv-dw6hb]

Drew Paul Bell thank u so much!

[@silambarasanjayaraman6092]

I am indian and i did my B.arch in india, if i do my M.arch in US will i get license in US

[@DrewPaulBell]

The masters doesn’t get you a license. You still have to take the exams in the US.

[@aethelwolfe3539]

And it’s exspensive.

[@yousufalli573]

hi Drew, I have a bachelors in architecture degree from a university in Ghana, but I'm currently in the US for an associates degree in project management. I'm wondering, do I need a masters degree in Architecture from a school in the US to get licensed? or will my foreign degree suffice, giving that I fill out my (AXP). thanks.

[@DrewPaulBell]

I’m not sure. You should check with NCARB to see if they will accept your specific degree. They are the ones who make that decision. I know they do accept some foreign degrees. One of my coworkers got her degree in Romania and then came to the US. They accepted her architecture credits but she had to go to a local college and take some “common core” classes before she was eligible to sit for the exams. But she only had to take a few extra classes instead of a whole degree. I’m not sure if they’ll make you do that or not, but you need to check with NCARB.

[@yousufalli573]

thank you.@@DrewPaulBell

[@lolelo4365]

Hello, actually I just moved to Canada this year, and I have a bachelor degree of architecture from Turkey (in English langage), and I was surprised the fact that thy do nt accept international degree. I need some information's thank you.

[@JonImperial]

I am a licensed architect in the US with a foreign degree. You would need an EESA evalutation. That is the organization that NCARB recognizes. They would determine if you need to take more classes. www.ncarb.org/advance-your-career/ncarb-certificate/get-certified/education-alternative/eesa

[@leonardonguyen4338]

Hey, I'm an arch student as well, how you doing w school so far and what the path have you chose, Canadian licensed arch path seemed confusing with lot of smoke and screen IMO!!

[@prashantsapkota2036]

Can international students get license in US?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yeah. You’ll have to do some extra work though. Checkout upwardlyglobal.org. My coworker is a registered architect and she is a Romanian citizen, not a US citizen. She had to go take some college classes before they would recognize her Architecture degree (in the US we have “common core” classes. So she had to go take a few classes like U.S. History to meet the American education requirements.) So it’s a little harder, but do-able. It took her a few extra years.

[@kshamashiva4885]

Hey buddy how do I contact you in person

[@DrewPaulBell]

Instagram DM is the best. You can also send an email to [e-mail]

[@Kennyyrr2]

u should do a house tour lol wanna see how good a architect lives

[@harryhirsch8527]

How to Become Licensed Architect in the US ...I would rename that video title

[@Satanas6_6_6]

Hey man you seem really knowledgeable on this . I'm a 16 year old graduate and I'm looking for schools to go to for architecture. Can you let me know what the best school will be for me ? Thank you so much man

[@Oliveoilgirl]

I need a help , I'm Architect Engineer from a foreign country with 10 years experience , can someone show me how to start please or a video about the steps to become licensed

[@NoshiCore]

I really wanna be an architect or I could just play too much sims 4

[@DrewPaulBell]

I’m not sure what’s inspired more people to become architects: Sims or Legos lol

[@NoshiCore]

@@DrewPaulBell lol 😂

[@adrianrafael6538]

why don't schools go over this?

[@DrewPaulBell]

If they don’t, they should

[@jamesgilmer3521]

Hi Drew, great video! For more information on how to register with each jurisdiction, you can check out this 50-state guide: www.harborcompliance.com/information/architecture-license