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Reciprocity through Experience

Candidates who seek an architect a license in California must successfully pass the California Supplemental Examination (CSE). There is no waiver of this requirement.

Follow the below process to apply for California reciprocity without an NCARB Certificate:

  1. Complete a California Architect Reciprocity Application.

  2. Submit a certification of licensure from each state/province in which you are actively licensed that includes a history of disciplinary action. The certification must be directly sent to the California Architects Board (CAB).

  3. Submit an Employment Verification Form (EVF) from your current or previous employer(s) to document a total of eight years of architectural experience. OR

    Submit an EVF completed on your own behalf to report self-employment for a total of eight years of architectural experience. OR

    A combination of the above work experience for a total of eight years in architectural experience.

  4. Request NCARB transmit your AXP record to the CAB. This only applies if you have been licensed as an architect for less than three years.

  5. Provide a certified copy of your collegiate transcript(s). Transcripts must be directly sent to us from the school. Transcripts issued to the candidate will not be accepted. Further, you only need to do this if you wish to submit education in lieu of a portion of your work experience.

Items 1 to 3 are required. Submit documents in items 4 through 5 ONLY if they are applicable.

Degrees from a foreign college or university must be evaluated by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) or an approved education evaluation service accredited by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services, Inc. (NACES). Professional degrees accredited by the CACB shall be accepted by CAB and shall not be required to have an education evaluation service by NAAB or NACES. Any cost of evaluation is the responsibility of the candidate.