ARCHITECT License in Massachusetts
Quick Answer
To become a registered architect in Massachusetts, you must hold a degree from an accredited architecture school, demonstrate practical experience, and pass the ARE including accessibility design requirements.
- Exam
- ARE - Architect Registration Examination
- Timeline
- 7-10 years (education + experience + exam)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
ARCHITECT license in Massachusetts
Estimated Costs Est.
- Exam Fee
- $1,410
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your ARCHITECT license in Massachusetts. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Massachusetts licensing board.
ARCHITECT Salary in Massachusetts
Entry Level
$76,610
Median
$101,980
Experienced
$173,060
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed ARCHITECT in Massachusetts.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Both state and third-party exams required — ARE - Architect Registration Examination
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 7-10 years (education + experience + exam).
ARCHITECT Licensing in Massachusetts: What to Know
Massachusetts requires evidence of high school graduation, graduation from an accredited school of architecture (or equivalent academic and practical experience), and passage of written examinations on technical and professional subjects including accessible design standards under Chapter 22 Section 13A. The Board may adopt NCARB examinations and grading procedures, and may exempt NCARB certificate holders from the written exam. The Board of Registration of Architects, under the Division of Professional Licensure, oversees all registrations. Massachusetts places specific emphasis on accessibility requirements in its licensing examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a ARCHITECT license in Massachusetts?
- The process typically takes 7-10 years (education + experience + exam), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a ARCHITECT license in Massachusetts?
- You need to pass the ARE - Architect Registration Examination. Both state and third-party exams required
Considering another state?
Compare ARCHITECT requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.