Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Business
Architect Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for architect in West 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ARCHITECTS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,530 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 86,530, Architects in West Virginia earn 11% below the national median of $96,690. West Virginia ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$86,530Hourly estimate
$41.6011% below national median
Difference: -$10,160
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationArchitect Salary Ranking
#29 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $86,530 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $95,640 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $99,210 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $97,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $93,230 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $97,130 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | 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. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
ARCHITECTS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045581406
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $88,200 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $77,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $50,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Architect in West 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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Architects.
What education do you need to become a Architect in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Architect licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Architect salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Architects in West Virginia is 86,530. Salaries range from $49,200 (10th percentile) to $133,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Architect salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Architects in West Virginia earn 11% below the national median of $96,690, with a state median of 86,530.
How many Architects work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 80 Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Architect license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is ARCHITECTS. Review agency details at http://www.wvbrdarch.org/.