Experience Through Internships

All of NCARB’s 54 U.S. jurisdictions have an experience requirement that must be documented and completed before one becomes licensed. This time between fulfilling the education requirement and getting licensed is referred to as an architectural internship. NCARB’s Intern Development Program (IDP) guides interns through this process and is the standard accepted means of completing the experience requirement in almost all U.S. jurisdictions. Download the IDP Guidelines for complete program rules and requirements.

To learn about the other registration requirments, see Studying Architecture and Architect Registration Examination.

Overview
The Intern Development Program (IDP) identifies the comprehensive experience that is essential for the independent practice of architecture.

NCARB Experience Requirements
Learn the standard requirements for completing the IDP. IDP includes four categories that interns must earn experience in: Pre-Design, Design, Project Management, and Practice Management.

Experience Settings
There are three experience settings: A (Practice of Architecture), O (Other Work Settings), and S (Supplemental Experience).

Getting Started
You can begin earning IDP credit while enrolled in architecture school or once you are working in an architecture firm. Once you have established when you can start, you can follow five easy steps to participate.

Maintaining Participation
Learn how to document your experience for IDP.

Resources for Interns
NCARB produces several resources to guide interns through the internship process.

Supervisors and Mentors
Supervisors and Mentors are an integral part of the IDP process. Learn more about their important role.

IDP Coordinators
Each state has an IDP Coordinator to help interns though the process.

Intern Think Tank
The Intern Think Tank is your opportunity to get involved and be a part of the decisions that are made for the future.

IDP Guidelines

The IDP Guidelines is essential reading for interns, supervisors, and mentors participating in the IDP. The document includes steps to completing the program, reporting procedures, experience requirements, and tasks interns should understand before becoming licensed. [more]

Video Series: NCARB Talks

The IDP Experience
Martin Smith, NCARB's manager of the Intern Development Program (IDP) talks about his participation in the IDP and the importance of working with his supervisor throughout the program.

[Watch]

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