Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Business
Architect Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Landscape Architects Technical Committee • Licensing Unit
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$105,840 median (9% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 105,840, Architects in California earn 9% above the national median of $96,690. California ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$105,840Hourly estimate
$50.889% above national median
Difference: +$9,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Architect median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Wyoming | 107,040 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 106,950 |
| #3 | California | 105,840 |
| #4 | Alaska | 105,340 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 105,200 |
Nearby States Comparison
Architect licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $105,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $83,870 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $101,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $97,470 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Landscape Architects Technical Committee • Licensing Unit
2420 Del Paso Road, Suite 105, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165757230
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $47,170 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Architect salary in California?
The median annual salary for Architects in California is 105,840. Salaries range from $65,660 (10th percentile) to $181,110 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in California compare to the national average?
Architects in California earn 9% above the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 105,840.
How many Architects work in California?
California employs approximately 13,880 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Architects in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Landscape Architects Technical Committee / Licensing Unit. Review agency details at https://www.latc.ca.gov/.