Getting Started With the ARE

Architect Registration Examination

In order to take the ARE, you must:

Meet the requirements of the registration board you plan to receive your initial license from, and
Establish an NCARB Record.

You should always contact your registration board directly to verify the requirements to gain access to the ARE.

Authorization to Test

To receive authorization to take the ARE you must transmit your NCARB Record to your registration board. If you have completed the Intern Development Program (IDP), you should select “IDP Complete: Request transmittal of NCARB Record to your jurisdiction” in My NCARB Record. If you have not completed the IDP, you should follow the steps outline here.

Your registration board will make you eligible for the ARE unless it participates in NCARB’s Direct Registration Program.

You will receive an Authorization to Test from Prometric. Your Authorization to Test includes your name, address, candidate identification number, your registration board, and all divisions you are eligible to take.

It is important that the name printed on your Authorization to Test matches the name printed on your primary form of identification. If your name is incorrect or you have changed you name, contact your registration board. Do not schedule an appointment to test until your receive a corrected Authorization to Test.

To change the address on your authorization to test, you must contact the ARE Helpline, your registration board, and NCARB. NCARB and Prometric are NOT responsible for lost, misdirected, or delayed mail.

Scheduling an Exam

Candidates may take the ARE divisions in any order, and at any time and Prometric location they choose (subject to availability). Most test centers are open six days a week, 50 weeks a year. [more]

Paying for the ARE

Each division of ARE 4.0 is $210. This fee is non-refundable. [more]

ARE 4.0 Divisions

The ARE consists of seven divisions that include multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and check-all-that-apply questions as well as graphic vignettes. [more]

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Related Publications

ARE Guidelines
Updated July 2010! The ARE 4.0 Guidelines is essential reading for anyone preparing for the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®). The document includes an overview of the exam divisions as well as the exam program, the rolling clock, exam eligibility, and six steps to taking and completing the ARE.

Download (PDF, 2,195K)

One Leg of the Stool: NCARB's Guide to Authorization and Examination for Licensure
Getting through the licensure process can be a little intimidating. There are a number of steps involved from applying to your chosen jurisdiction and scheduling to take the ARE to waiting for test scores. NCARB has put together a brief summary of some important information that will help keep you on the right track.

Download (PDF, 117K)

ARE 4.0 Voucher Request Form
Complete this form if you wish to pay by check or money order and indicate the division(s) for which you are submitting payment. A separate voucher for each division will be mailed to you within four weeks after receipt of your request.

Download (PDF, 76K)

Related FAQs

Do the AIT questions count more than a regular multiple-choice question?

No, all questions are scored equally.

What do I do if I have not received my Authorization to Test (ATT)?

When your board of architecture transmits your eligibility to the ARE Helpdesk, an Authorization to Test is automatically generated. If you feel that you should have received it already, please call the ARE Helpdesk at 800/896-2272.

What kind of identification should I bring to the testing center?

You need to present one form of identification. The primary form of identification, current and non-expired, must bear your signature and a recent photograph of you. The name on the identification must be exactly the same as the name on the Authorization to Test (ATT). If your ID does not match your ATT, you wil not be allowed to test. For further details, please refer to the ARE 4.0 Guidelines.

[More FAQs]

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