NCARB Architect Registration Examination (ARE) Overview Practice Test

Eligibility is determined by your specific U.S. licensing board, not NCARB. Most boards require an NAAB-accredited degree (or equivalent) and enrollment in, or completion of, the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). You must establish an NCARB Record and receive eligibility from your board before testing. Always verify exact requirements with your jurisdiction's board.

The ARE 5.0 is divided into six practice-based divisions: 1) Practice Management (firm operations, ethics, risk), 2) Project Management (project team, contracts, finances), 3) Programming & Analysis (site, environmental, programmatic analysis), 4) Project Planning & Design (schematic design, systems integration), 5) Project Development & Documentation (detailing, construction documents), and 6) Construction & Evaluation (construction administration, post-occupancy). Each division is a separate exam.

The timeline varies significantly based on individual study habits, work commitments, and exam scheduling. On average, candidates who pass each division on the first attempt may complete the suite within 1.5 to 3 years. NCARB's rolling clock policy requires completing all passed divisions within a five-year period.

To encourage timely completion, NCARB's Rolling Clock states that you must pass all six divisions within a five-year period. The clock starts on the date you pass your first division. If you do not pass all divisions within five years of that first pass, you will lose credit for the oldest passed division and must retake it.

NCARB provides essential, authoritative resources including the ARE 5.0 Guidelines (detailed exam objectives), the ARE Handbook, and free practice exams for each division. These materials are critical for understanding exam format, content areas, and item types. NCARB does not endorse third-party study materials, which should be used to supplement the official resources.