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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Architect in Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Virginia eligibility requirements for Architect licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation~Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA Board) and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $99,210 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $86,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $93,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $85,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $87,990 | Degree required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio and Video Technicians | $50,990 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,190 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $77,000 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in Virginia?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Architect license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.