The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) is a professional organization that serves as a central platform for the regulation and standardization of architectural licensure in the United States and its territories. NCARB is an association composed of 54 licensing boards from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
NCARB’s primary objective is to ensure the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare through the establishment and maintenance of rigorous licensure standards and requirements for architects. It provides guidance and resources to aspiring architects, licensed architects, and jurisdictional licensing boards to ensure consistency and quality in the architectural profession.
One of NCARB's major roles is the development and administration of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), a comprehensive assessment that tests architectural knowledge and skills required for professional practice. This examination is a crucial step towards becoming a licensed architect, and NCARB ensures its integrity and relevance through ongoing review and updates.
In addition to examination services, NCARB also facilitates the reciprocal registration process, through which licensed architects can obtain licensure in other jurisdictions without reexamination. Furthermore, NCARB offers various educational resources and programs to support the professional development of architects, such as continuing education opportunities and guidelines for internship and experience requirements.
Overall, NCARB plays a vital role in promoting public protection, professional competency, and uniform standards in the field of architecture, thus contributing to the integrity and sustainability of the built environment.
