How do I register to take the ARE?

You must contact the registration board in your state/province to apply to take the exam. Do not contact NCARB. They prepare the exam but do not register candidates. Your board will send you an application, and can tell you about the specific requirements and applicable fees. For a list of state boards click here.

Is the ARE different in each state?

No. The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a national exam. It is the same in all fifty states, as well as in Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands and Canada.

Is this the same ARE that is given in Canada?

Yes. There is only one Architect Registration Examination (ARE) and it is given in Canada, the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands, and Northern Mariana Islands.

When is the exam given?

All divisions of NCARB's Architect Registration Examination (ARE) are administered exclusively on computers year-round at a network of Prometric test centers throughout the United States, the U.S. territories, and Canada. Candidates may take the exam divisions in any order and at any time and location they choose. Most test centers are open six days a week, 50 weeks a year. You may also call Prometric's Candidate Services Call Center at (800)479-6215 or visit their website www.prometric.com to locate a test center and to schedule an examination. For Teletype, call (800) 529-3590.

When will ARE 4.0 begin?

ARE 4.0 will be released in July 2008.

How are ARE 3.1 and ARE 4.0 structured differently?

ARE 3.1 is comprised of six multiple-choice divisions and three graphic divisions. ARE 4.0 integrates the graphic vignettes into an appropriate multiple-choice division and reduces the total number of divisions from 9 to 7. In addition, there are fewer multiple-choice questions and the overall test time has been slightly reduced.

If I am transitioned to ARE 4.0 in July 2009, what exams will I be required to take?

That depends entirely on which division you have passed in ARE 3.1. Unfortunately, you may have to repeat previously passed content. We strongly encourage you to complete ARE 3.1 during the one-year overlap to avoid any confusion during the mandatory transition. Please read our strategy.

Who makes decisions regarding the development and implementation of the ARE?

The development of the ARE is a lengthy process. NCARB's exam committees research any proposed changes and make recommendations to NCARB's Board of Directors, who may then approve the changes.

Can I ‘mix and match’ which version of the exam I want to take?

If you have passed at least one division of the ARE prior to May 13, 2008, you will be considered a “transition candidate.” As a “transition candidate,” you will be required to continue testing in ARE 3.1 until June 2009. If you are not finished by the end of the one-year overlap (July 2008 - June 2009), you will then be transitioned to ARE 4.0.
If you have not passed any division of the ARE prior to May 13, 2008, you automatically will be transitioned to ARE 4.0.

For additional information on the ARE contact NCARB at (202) 783-6500 or visit their web site at www.ncarb.org.