Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CO Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Colorado
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Colorado, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in Colorado
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Regulatory Agencies • Division of Professions & Occupations • Board of Architects
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$95,620 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Colorado
With a median salary of 95,620, Architects in Colorado earn 1% below the national median of $96,690. Colorado ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,540Median annual salary
$95,620Hourly estimate
$45.971% below national median
Difference: -$1,070
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#22 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $95,620 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $107,040 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $86,390 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $82,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $83,270 | No educational requirements | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $77,070 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $97,470 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $81,710 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kansas | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Regulatory Agencies • Division of Professions & Occupations • Board of Architects
1560 Broadway Ste 1300, Denver, CO, 80202
Phone: 3038947801
Related Careers in Colorado
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,030 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $99,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $85,580 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $57,420 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Colorado?
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 exams are required for Architects in Colorado?
Colorado lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Colorado?
The board typically expects Degree required for Architect licensure in Colorado.
What is the typical Architect salary in Colorado?
The median annual salary for Architects in Colorado is 95,620. Salaries range from $62,760 (10th percentile) to $161,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Colorado compare to the national average?
Architects in Colorado earn 1% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 95,620.
How many Architects work in Colorado?
Colorado employs approximately 4,010 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Colorado from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Architects in Colorado?
The licensing agency is Department of Regulatory Agencies / Division of Professions & Occupations / Board of Architects. Review agency details at https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dora/licenses-and-permits-0.