Skip to main content

Oregon State Flag An official website of the State of Oregon »

Certification, Exam, and Experience Guidelines

Overview

The Oregon State Board of Architect Examiners (OSBAE) utilizes specific education, examination, experience, and certification guidelines developed by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and adopted by the Board through administrative rule.

The Board periodically reviews and approves updates to these guidelines. Current approved guidelines are referenced in OAR 806-010-0010.

This page provides links to current NCARB resources related to:
  • architectural certification, 
  • examination requirements, 
  • experience programs, 
  • and registration guidance. 
Applicants seeking architect registration in Oregon should review the applicable NCARB guidance materials and Board requirements before submitting applications or beginning the registration process.

About NCARB

The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) develops national standards and programs that architectural licensing boards may use throughout the United States.

NCARB resources help NCARB Record and Certificate candidates understand:
  • architectural education requirements, 
  • examination requirements, 
  • experience requirements, 
  • certification processes, 
  • and registration pathways. 
Refer to OAR 806-010-0010 to see the most current OSBAE-approved architect registration and evaluation programs.

Certification, Exam, and Experience Guidelines

The following resources will direct users to the NCARB website for current certification, examination, and experience guidance.

Because NCARB materials are updated periodically, applicants should always refer to the official NCARB website for current certification, examination, and experience guidelines.

Architectural Experience Program (AXP)

The Architectural Experience Program (AXP) documents required professional experience completed under licensed supervision.

Applicants should review NCARB guidance regarding:
  • experience requirements, 
  • reporting procedures, 
  • and program completion requirements. 

Architect Registration Examination (ARE)

The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) evaluates applicants’ knowledge and competency in architectural practice.

Applicants should review NCARB guidance regarding:
  • examination divisions, 
  • eligibility requirements, 
  • testing procedures, 
  • and examination policies. 

NCARB Certification

NCARB Certification may support:
  • reciprocal registration, 
  • interstate licensure, 
  • and credential verification. 
Applicants should review current certification requirements directly through NCARB.

For more information, visit the NCARB Certification information webpage. 

Additional Oregon Registration Information

Additional Oregon-specific registration information is available through OSBAE webpages, including:
  • Individual Initial Registration 
  • Individual Reciprocal Registration 
  • Reinstatement 
  • Architectural Firm Registration 

Important Notice

OSBAE provides links to NCARB resources for informational purposes.

Applicants are responsible for reviewing the current NCARB requirements and ensuring that all Oregon registration requirements are met before submitting applications.

Because NCARB standards and guidance may change periodically, applicants should always refer to the official NCARB website for the most current information.

Contact Information

Oregon State Board of
Architect Examiners
205 Liberty Street NE, Suite A
Salem, OR 97301

Email: architectboard@osbae.oregon.gov
Phone: 503-763-0662

Please include your registration number when corresponding with the Board regarding registration matters.

Office Hours

Monday through Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time
Staff work remotely on Fridays.