Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Business
Architect Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board)
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$97,140 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 97,140, Architects in Virginia earn 0% above the national median of $96,690. Virginia ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$97,140Hourly estimate
$46.700% above national median
Difference: +$450
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#19 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $97,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $99,210 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $86,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $93,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $85,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $87,990 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | 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. |
- 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
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board)
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043678514
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,190 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $99,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $60,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Architect licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Architect salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Architects in Virginia is 97,140. Salaries range from $62,600 (10th percentile) to $157,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Architects in Virginia earn 0% above the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 97,140.
How many Architects work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 2,740 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation / Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board). Review agency details at https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/APELS.