Licensure Candidates

To receive a license to practice architecture, the state of South Carolina requires candidates hold a NAAB accredited degree, complete the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Architectural Experience Program (AXP), and complete NCARB’s Architect Registration Exam (ARE).

New graduates with an accredited architecture degree are eligible for Complimentary Assoc. AIA Membership for up to 18 months. Visit Associate New Graduates - AIA for more information and to apply for membership.

Education

The Clemson University Master of Architecture program is the only NAAB accredited program in South Carolina, currently. Other options within the South Atlantic region include the architecture programs at UNC Charlotte, NC State University, Kennesaw State University, Savannah College of Arts & Design, and the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Experience

A portion of the licensure process involves documenting experience hours while working under licensed architects. You will need to document a minimum of 3,740 required hours under the six experience areas to complete the program. Refer to the AXP Guidelines for the full breakdown of requirements, including the ways to gain experience while not working for a licensed architect.

Exam

The ARE is developed by NCARB and administered for candidates in all US jurisdictions to test a candidate's knowledge and skills across multiple topics and various services required in the practice of architecture. This exam can be taken either in person or through remote proctoring. The exam consists of 6 parts including Practice Management, Project Management, Programming and Analysis, Project Planning and Design, Project Development and Documentation, and Construction and Evaluation. The ARE concentrates on the professional services that affect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

are 5.0 sTUDY rESOURCES

AIA Charleston has partnered with Clemson Libraries to make ARE study material more accessible local licensure candidates. AIA Charleston members may be issued Community Borrower Cards through the Clemson library, providing access to AIA Charleston’s study material. The current ARE material includes the Ballast Print Bundle: ARE 5.0 Exam Review, ARE 5.0 Mock Exams, ARE 5.0 Practice Questions, and ARE 5.0 Flash Cards. This bundle covers all 6 exam divisions and must be checked out as a complete set. This ARE 5.0 material set has a 2-week loan period.

Members must register for a Community Borrower Card. Cards can be provided during the library’s regular hours (listed below), with proof of South Carolina residency and an ID, such as a driver's license. Applicants will need to provide current contact information, including phone number and email address. We recommend calling 843-953-3935 prior to ensure that the librarian will be available to issue a Community Borrower Card during your visit.

Clemson Design Center Library 701 East Bay Street, Suite 202 Charleston, SC 29403 Hours: Monday through Friday, noon to 4pm.

AIA Charleston’s EP/YAF Committee offers resources and accountability as you work through the ARE. To join and be added to the mailing list, contact Destiny Hall.

For additional information about how to prepare and take the ARE, visit NCARB’s website.