Application Fee
See agencyArchitect Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Architects
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$93,230 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 93,230, Architects in Kentucky earn 4% below the national median of $96,690. Kentucky ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$93,230Hourly estimate
$44.82Difference: -$3,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $93,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $79,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $97,130 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $86,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $97,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $85,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $97,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $79,320 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Architects
155 East Main Street, Suite 300, Lexington, KY, 40507
Phone: 8592462069
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,200 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,100 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $45,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Architect licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Architect salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Architects in Kentucky is 93,230. Salaries range from $59,500 (10th percentile) to $129,440 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Architects in Kentucky earn 4% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 93,230.
How many Architects work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 640 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Architects in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Architects. Review agency details at http://boa.ky.gov/.