Application Fee
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Landscape Architect Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for landscape architect in California, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Landscape Architect in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Landscape Architects Technical Committee • Licensing Unit
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$98,880 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Landscape Architect licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Consumer Affairs~Landscape Architects Technical Committee~Licensing Unit.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 98,880, Landscape Architects in California earn 24% above the national median of 79660. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$98,880Hourly estimate
$47.5424% above national median
Difference: +$19,220
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLandscape Architect Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Landscape Architect median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 98,880 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 92,600 |
| #3 | North Dakota | 91,250 |
| #4 | New York | 89,940 |
| #5 | Maryland | 86,390 |
Nearby States Comparison
Landscape Architect licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $98,880 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $76,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $80,710 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $67,060 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Landscape Architects Technical Committee • Licensing Unit
2420 Del Paso Road, Suite 105, Sacramento, CA, 95834
Phone: 9165757230
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Landscape Architect in California?
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 is the typical Landscape Architect salary in California?
The median annual salary for Landscape Architects in California is 98,880. Salaries range from 60840 (10th percentile) to 191690 (90th percentile).
How does the Landscape Architect salary in California compare to the national average?
Landscape Architects in California earn 24% above the national median of 79660, with a state median of 98,880.
How many Landscape Architects work in California?
California employs approximately 2820 Landscape Architects according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Landscape Architect license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Landscape Architects in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Landscape Architects Technical Committee / Licensing Unit. Review agency details at https://www.latc.ca.gov/.