Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Architectural Examining Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,990 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 86,990, Architects in Iowa earn 10% below the national median of $96,690. Iowa ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$86,990Hourly estimate
$41.8210% below national median
Difference: -$9,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $86,990 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $95,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $93,310 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $79,320 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $97,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $86,390 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $102,420 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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 Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Architectural Examining Board
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $63,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Architect licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Architect salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Architects in Iowa is 86,990. Salaries range from $58,590 (10th percentile) to $168,700 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Architects in Iowa earn 10% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 86,990.
How many Architects work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 750 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Iowa Architectural Examining Board. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.