Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$85,490 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 85,490, Architects in Tennessee earn 12% below the national median of $96,690. Tennessee ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$85,490Hourly estimate
$41.1012% below national median
Difference: -$11,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#32 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $85,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $93,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $97,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $87,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $100,870 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $94,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $79,040 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $84,310 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $97,970 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | 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. |
| North Carolina | 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. |
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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 Commerce and Insurance • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
Davy Crockett Tower 3d Floor, 500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN, 37243-1142
Phone: 6157413221
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $75,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $89,390 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $44,670 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Architect licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Architect salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Architects in Tennessee is 85,490. Salaries range from $60,210 (10th percentile) to $137,190 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Architects in Tennessee earn 12% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 85,490.
How many Architects work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 2,190 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division of Regulatory Boards / Division of Regulatory Boards.