Virginia Architect FAQs
Answers to frequently asked questions about Virginia architect licensing and continuing education
Virginia Architect Renewal
Renewal Deadline: The last day of the month in which you were originally licensed
Renewal Cycle: Two Years
State Required Continuing Education: 16 hrs
AIA Membership Continuing Education: 18 hrs annually, including 12 HSW
Renewing Your License:
How do I renew my Virginia architect license?
- Complete 16-hours of continuing education
- Renew your license online by paying the renewal fee
What are the Virginia continuing education requirements for architects?
Architects in Virginia are required to complete 16-hours of continuing education every two years by the end of the original licensure month.
I have extra Virginia architect continuing education hours, can I apply them to the next renewal cycle?
No, learning units must be completed in their respective cycle.
Who notifies Virginia of my completed architect continuing education?
Virginia does not require architects or continuing education providers notify the state of continuing education unless they perform an audit. Architects must maintain continuing education records for 3-years in case of said audit. Architects Training Institute will store your records for 6-years at no extra cost.
Do I need to complete continuing education requirements for my AIA membership?
Yes, as an Architect member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), 18 learning unit hours are required per calendar-year for membership renewal. Of these 18 hours, at least 12 hours must be in subjects designated as Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW).
Are AIA approved classes accepted to renew my Virginia architect license?
Yes.
My Virginia architect registration has lapsed, how do I reinstate it?
You may renew your license for up to six months and your branch office registration for up to 30 days after expiration by paying a late fee. After six months, you must submit a reinstatement application.
Getting a License:
Does Virginia offer architect reciprocity?
Yes, an individual who is a registered architect in another state and holds an NCARB certificate may become registered in Virginia.
State Contact Info:
Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400
Richmond, Virginia 23233-1485
Phone: (804) 367-8506
apelscidla@dpor.virginia.gov
http://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/APELS/
Once I order the course, how long before I can start?
You may begin immediately! Simply click the Login button in the upper right-hand corner on your desktop or in the upper-right menu on mobile. Once you’ve entered your login and password, you will be taken to your courses. Follow the instructions and enjoy!
Once I start an online course, will I be able to start and stop at anytime?
Our courses are available online 24/7 and you are able to log in and log out at any time during the course. If you are going to be away from your computer for more than 10-15 minutes, simply log out. When you log back in, you will be able to re-enter the lesson you were last in.
How long do your continuing education courses take to complete?
Continuing education requirements vary by state. Each course lists a minimum number of credit hours required to complete the course.
How long do I have access to the courses?
We allow up to 6 months for you to complete the courses. During the six months you have unlimited, 24/7 access. If you need additional time, please contact our offices to arrange an extension (please note: a fee may apply).
Are there tests or quizzes in the courses?
Some states do require quizzes, these will be found at the end of lessons. You cannot fail a quiz, though, as you may take it as many times as required to pass!
Once I complete a course, can I still go back and review the lessons?
You are able to review the lessons at any time during the six months you’ll have access to the courses.