Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams 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
Board of Registration of Architects • Division of Professional Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$101,980 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 101,980, Architects in Massachusetts earn 5% above the national median of $96,690. Massachusetts ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$101,980Hourly estimate
$49.035% above national median
Difference: +$5,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $101,980 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $97,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $81,340 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $98,580 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $105,200 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $106,950 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Rhode Island | 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
Board of Registration of Architects • Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA, 02118
Phone: 6177273074
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,580 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $104,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $101,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $48,300 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Architect licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Architect salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Architects in Massachusetts is 101,980. Salaries range from $76,610 (10th percentile) to $173,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Architects in Massachusetts earn 5% above the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 101,980.
How many Architects work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 4,790 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration of Architects / Division of Professional Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/ar/.