Florida Architect FAQs

Answers to frequently asked questions about Florida architect licensing and continuing education

Florida Architect Renewal

License Renewal Deadline: February 28th of odd-numbered years

Continuing Education Deadline: December 31st of even-numbered years

State Required Continuing Education: 24 hrs total–22 in HSW subjects, 2 in FL advanced building codes

AIA Membership Continuing Education: 18 hrs annually, including 12 HSW

See Florida AIA Courses

Renewing Your License:

How do I renew my Florida architect license?

  1. Renewal notices are sent to your email address on record when the renewal period opens (90-120 days prior to the deadline)
  2. Ensure you have completed the required continuing education
  3. Follow the instructions for how to renew found in the renewal notice

What are the Florida continuing education requirements for architects?

Florida architects are required to complete 24 hours of continuing education during each two year renewal cycle. 22 hours must relate to HSW subjects, 2 hours must relate to Florida Building Codes.

If you were initially licensed for less than 24 months prior to the end of a renewal cycle you do not need to complete any continuing education for your first renewal cycle.

I have extra Florida architect continuing education hours, can I apply them to the next renewal cycle?

No, continuing education hours must be completed in their respective cycle.

Who notifies Florida of my completed architect continuing education?

Reporting or course completion certificates should be maintained by each licensee for at least two years following the last day of the applicable renewal cycle. These records must be furnished to the board upon notice of an audit. Architects Training Institute will submit your approved courses to the AIA and maintain your course completion records free of charge for 6 years.

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 Florida architect license?

Yes.

My Florida architect registration has lapsed, how do I reinstate it?

If your license is delinquent you must pay the late fee plus the original renewal fee and complete the steps described above in order to renew.

If your license is void you must reapply for a new license; there is no way to reinstate it.

Getting a License:

How do I obtain a Florida architect license?

There are three methods to apply for licensure:

  • Possess an NCARB endorsement
  • Obtain a state endorsement (obtained through application)
  • Obtain direct endorsement (obtained through application)
    • This endorsement is usually used for applicants who were once licensed in Florida who’s license became null and void

Does Florida offer architect reciprocity?

No, Florida does not offer reciprocity

State Contact Info:

Division of Professions
Board of Architecture and Interior Design
2601 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0791
Phone: (850) 487-1395
Fax: (850) 488-8040
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/architecture-and-interior-design/

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.