Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Architect Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Architecture and Registered Interior Designers
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$87,990 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Architect licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Board of Architecture and Registered Interior Designers and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $87,990, Architects in North Carolina earn 9% below the national median of $96,690. North Carolina ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$87,990Hourly estimate
$42.309% below national median
Difference: -$8,700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $87,990 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $97,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $85,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $100,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $84,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NC Board of Architecture and Registered Interior Designers
434 Fayetteville St, Suite 2005, Raleigh, NC, 27601
Phone: 9843281161
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio and Video Technicians | $43,870 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $74,830 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in North Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Architects in North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Architect licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Architect salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Architects in North Carolina is $87,990. Salaries range from $60,750 (10th percentile) to $140,700 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Architects in North Carolina earn 9% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of $87,990.
How many Architects work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 2,920 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Architects in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Architecture and Registered Interior Designers. Review agency details at http://www.ncbarch.org/.
How often do you renew a Architect license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.