New Jersey Architecture License Overview

Discover how to secure and maintain a New Jersey architecture license. Learn how Harbor Compliance can simplify the licensure process for your firm.

The Application and Renewal Process for a New Jersey Architecture License

In New Jersey, firms and individuals intending to offer architectural services to the public must secure appropriate licenses. For architectural firms, this could mean obtaining a Certificate of Authorization (COA) from the state. This certificate is only issued to entities that meet specific ownership criteria.

On the other hand, individuals must secure a New Jersey architecture license, which is granted to those who fulfill strict education, experience, and examination requirements. Both the COA and New Jersey architecture licenses must be renewed periodically to ensure continued practice.

Navigating this licensure process, from understanding regulatory criteria to applying for license renewals, can be overwhelming. As such, many practitioners partner with Harbor Compliance, a trusted provider that ensures every step is handled efficiently and accurately.

This article explores the process of applying for and renewing a New Jersey architecture license. We will also discuss how Harbor Compliance’s Architecture & Engineering Compliance Solutions simplify the complex licensure journey and ensure a hassle-free experience.

New Jersey Architect License Requirements for Individuals

The New Jersey architect license, issued by the New Jersey State Board of Architects, is a vital license that grants individuals the legal authority to practice architecture in the state. New Jersey enforces strict eligibility criteria for aspiring licensees to safeguard public health and safety and maintain high professional standards.

To qualify for the New Jersey architecture license, individuals must fulfill the following requirements:

Education

To meet the educational criteria, New Jersey accepts one of the following qualifications:

1. A baccalaureate or master’s degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
2. A degree deemed equivalent to a NAAB-accredited program by the New Jersey State Board of Architects

Applicants with degrees from foreign institutions or universities not accredited by NAAB can obtain a detailed evaluation by Education Credentials Evaluators, Inc., or another evaluation service recognized by the Board. This evaluation determines whether the degree obtained is equivalent to an accredited program.

If the evaluation doesn’t certify equivalency, the applicant should provide an assessment outlining deficiencies and complete the identified coursework to address these gaps before proceeding with licensure.

Experience

To satisfy the experience requirements for a New Jersey architect license, applicants must complete at least three years in the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). This program, administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB), is designed to provide aspiring applicants with comprehensive hands-on training in key aspects of architectural practice.

Examination

All prospective licensees must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to fulfill the examination criteria. Applicants must complete the AXP and obtain approval from the New Jersey State Board of Architects before taking the ARE. This ensures all candidates have the foundation experience needed to pass the examination.

New Jersey Architect License Reciprocity

New Jersey also offers licensure by reciprocity for candidates already licensed in another jurisdiction. To be eligible, the following criteria must be met:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• The other jurisdiction’s education, experience, and examination requirements must be substantially equivalent to New Jersey’s.
• Applicants must not have been charged by the New Jersey State Board of Architects or any other jurisdiction with violations related to the practice of architecture or any offense suggesting a lack of good moral character.

Applying for the New Jersey Architecture License

The application process for obtaining a New Jersey architect license can be completed online. Prospective licensees must submit several documents to demonstrate their eligibility. Typically, applicants would be asked to provide the following:

• Official transcripts from the institution where the applicant earned their architecture degree
• Evidence of completing at least three years of the AXP
• Documentation confirming the passage of the ARE
• 2x2 clear photograph taken within the last six months
• Work references from three licensed architects familiar with the licensee’s professional abilities

Once all required materials are submitted, the New Jersey State Board of Architects will review the application and issue the license if it is satisfied that the applicant meets all licensure requirements.

New Jersey Certificate of Authorization for Architecture Firms

In New Jersey, architectural firms must employ licensed practitioners to oversee their architectural work and may need to obtain a Certificate of Authorization (COA). Typically, the six classes of entities that practice architecture in the state include:

1. Sole proprietorships
2. Partnerships formed by licensed architects
3. Partnerships of closely allied professionals, provided at least one is a licensed architect
4. Professional service corporations (PCs or PCSs)
5. Corporations
6. Limited liability companies (LLCs)

The New Jersey State Board of Architects only issues COAs to business corporations and LLCs. Other entity types must meet ownership and other requirements but are not required to obtain a COA. LLCs and corporations must obtain a COA and meet the following ownership requirements:

• At least two-thirds of the entity’s directors/members must be licensed architects.
• At least two-thirds of the firm’s ownership interests must be licensed architects.

For entities who wish to offer architectural and closely allied professional services:

• At least one director/member must be a licensed architect.
• Two-thirds of the firm must be owned by licensed architects or closely allied professionals.
• A minimum of 20% of the entity’s ownership must be held by licensed architects.

Applying for a New Jersey Architecture Firm License

To secure a firm license in New Jersey, entities must complete the application form for a Certificate of Authorization. This application process will typically ask for the following information:

• The name and address of the entity
• The names, addresses, license numbers, and signatures of all board members, directors, principals, officers, and any licensee who would be in responsible charge of the firm’s architectural services
• The names and address of the entity’s registered agent
• The names, addresses, and amount of ownership interest of all stockholders who are licensees or allied professionals
• A certified copy of the entity’s formation documents
• A certified copy of the firm’s Certificate of Authority, which is issued by the New Jersey Department of Treasury
• A copy of the most current annual report filed with the New Jersey Department of Treasury

New Jersey Architecture License Renewal

After securing an architecture license in New Jersey, practitioners must take steps to maintain their license to avoid penalties or disciplinary action. One crucial requirement is promptly reporting all changes to the information provided during the application process, such as changes to the licensee’s name or address or the entity’s address, within 30 days of the change.

Additionally, to continue practicing legally, all licenses must be renewed biennially. To qualify for a renewal, licensees must complete a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education (CE) during the two-year renewal period, divided as follows:

• 16 CE hours must focus on courses addressing health, safety, and welfare as defined by the State Board.
• 8 CE hours must pertain to educational activities directly related to the practice of architecture.

Additional Services Harbor Compliance Offers

New Jersey Architecture License FAQs

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