Washington DC Architect FAQs
Answers to frequently asked questions about Washington DC architect licensing and continuing education
Washington DC Architect Renewal
Renewal Deadline: April 30th of even numbered years
Required Continuing Education: 24 hrs in HSW subjects
AIA Membership Continuing Education: 18 hrs annually, including 12 HSW
Renewing Your License:
How do I renew my Washington DC architect license?
- Complete 24 hrs of continuing education prior to April 30th of even numbered years
- The board will send you a renewal application at least 60 days prior to your license expiration
- Complete and submit the renewal application
What are the Washington DC continuing education requirements for architects?
Washington DC architects must complete 24 hours of continuing education in the topics of Health, Safety, Wellfare (HSW) every two year renewal cycle prior to April 30th.
Who notifies Washington DC of my completed architect continuing education?
Washington DC architects must provide proof to the licensing board of completed continuing education at the time of license renewal.
Architects Training Institute will maintain your training records free of charge for you.
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 Washington DC architect license?
Yes.
Getting a License:
How do I obtain a Washington DC architect license?
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and be in good moral standing.
Additional requirements:
- Be a graduate of a degree program in architecture from an accredited institution
- Complete the training requirements of the Mandatory AXP (Architect Experience Program) administered by NCARB
- Received a passing score on ALL parts of the ARE
- Request NCARB Examination File to be sent to the board when the applicant has successfully passed the examination
Professional Licensing Board Contact Info:
DCRA
1100 4th Street, SW
Washington, DC 20024
Phone: (202) 442-4400
Fax: (202) 442-9445
https://dcra.dc.gov/professional-licensing
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.