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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State 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
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 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 |
| Georgia | $100,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $84,190 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $58,860 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in North Carolina?
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 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. 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Architecture and Registered Interior Designers. Review agency details at http://www.ncbarch.org/.