LicenseCompass

Architect License in New York

Quick Answer

To become a licensed architect in New York, you must meet NCARB requirements and register with the NYS Education Department's State Board for Architecture. Contact the board for current fees.

Exam
ARE - Architect Registration Examination
Timeline
7-10 years (education + experience + exam)
Renewal
Every Triennial

Requirements

Architect license in New York

gold
Exam
Third-party exam required
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Exam Fee
$1,410

Licensing Agency

NYS Education Department~State Board for Architecture

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Architect license in New York. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Exam FeeEst.$1,410
Total Estimated Cost$1,410

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the New York licensing board.

Architect Salary in New York

Entry Level

$61,810

Median

$98,580

Experienced

$167,230

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 New York.

  1. 1

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — ARE - Architect Registration Examination

  2. 2

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  3. 3

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 7-10 years (education + experience + exam).

Architect Licensing in New York: What to Know

New York's COS listing provides only a brief definition. The NYS Education Department's State Board for Architecture oversees licensure. New York follows standard NCARB requirements but also accepts NCARB certification for reciprocal registration. The state offers a certification pathway that may substitute for standard license requirements. New York is one of the few states that registers architects through its Education Department rather than a standalone board, and architects must comply with the New York City Building Code (for NYC projects) or the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code for the rest of the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Architect license in New York?
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 New York?
You need to pass the ARE - Architect Registration Examination. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Architect requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.