Alabama Architect FAQs

Renewing Your License:

How do I renew my Alabama architect license?

1. Complete 12 hours of continuing education by December 31st
2. Renew your license online by paying the $135 annual fee

What are the Alabama continuing education requirements for architects?

Alabama architects must complete a minimum of 12 continuing education hours (CEHs) each calendar year (January 1 through December 31). The content of all 12 hours must be devoted to health, safety, and welfare (HSW) subjects related to the practice of architecture. In addition, all 12 hours must be earned in a “structured” learning setting.

I have extra Alabama 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 Alabama of my completed architect continuing education?

Alabama 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 1-year and furnished to the Board in response to an audit. Architects Training Institute will maintain your records for 6 years at no extra charge.

Other documentation of continuing education includes but are not limited to: AIA transcripts, certificates of completion issued by the course provider, “sign-in” log provided directly by the course provider, and other correspondence or documentation provided directly by the course provider.

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 Alabama architect license?

Yes.

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

1. Complete Alabama Application for Reinstatement
2. Complete Reinstatement Affidavit
3. Complete Continuing Education Report
4. Sign a Citizenship Affidavit and submit acceptable documentation
5. Provide a copy of your wallet card or a letter from your resident state which indicates good standing
6. Provide a certified check made payable to Alabama Board of Architects in the amount of $460, which includes a $250 reinstatement application fee, $135 registration renewal fee, and $75 late penalty. Payment may be made via credit card by calling Board Staff

Further details and reinstatement forms may be found on the Alabama Board of Architects Website

Getting a License:

How do I obtain an Alabama architect license?

Architects must hold a first professional degree in architecture from a NAAB-accredited university, complete the NCARB Intern Development Program, and pass all divisions of the Architect Registration Exam® to become a registered architect in Alabama. Exam information may be found here.

Does Alabama offer architect reciprocity?

Yes, an individual who is a registered architect in another state and holds an NCARB certificate may become registered in Alabama. Follow this link to proceed: www.ncarb.org. It will take about two weeks for the Board to process your application.

State Contact Info:

State of Alabama Board of Architects
100 North Union Street, Suite 390
Montgomery, AL 36130-4450
Phone: (334) 242-4179
Fax: (334) 242-4531
https://boa.alabama.gov/