On this page, you’ll find an exhaustive guide on the New Hampshire Architect License Requirements and the Architect Registration process in New Hampshire. It provides all the crucial information you need including state regulations, application fees, and filing instructions among other relevant details. If you need any assistance related to the licensing process, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to offer further details about our software and managed license services to support your needs.

How do I become an architect in New Hampshire?

To become a licensed architect in New Hampshire, follow these steps:

1. Obtain a professional degree in architecture from a NAAB-accredited program.
2. Gain a minimum of three years of practical experience working under a licensed architect.
3. Pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in various areas of architecture.
4. Apply for licensure with the New Hampshire Board of Architects by submitting required documents such as transcripts and proof of practical experience.
5. Successfully complete a state-specific exam as part of the application process.
6. Once approved, maintain your license by fulfilling continuing education requirements and renewing your license every two years.

It is important to note that each step must be completed in order to obtain licensure as an architect in New Hampshire.

How Do I Take The Architect Registration Examination In New Hampshire?

Company License

New Hampshire Certificate of Authorization (Architecture)

• Business Corporations
• Professional Corporations
• Limited Liability Companies
• Professional Limited Liability Companies
• Limited Partnerships
• Limited Liability Partnerships

• Business Corporations: Ensure that at least one officer of the corporation is a licensed architect in New Hampshire.
• Professional Corporations: Ensure that at least half of the directors and all officers, except for the secretary and treasurer, are licensed architects in New Hampshire or qualified entities.
• Limited Liability Companies: Ensure that at least one member of the LLC is a licensed architect in New Hampshire.
• Professional Limited Liability Companies: Ensure that all members and managers of the PLLC are licensed architects in New Hampshire or qualified entities.
• Partnerships: Ensure that at least one partner in the partnership is a licensed architect in New Hampshire.

First-Time Applicants

The following information pertains to architectural firms seeking an initial license in New Hampshire. If you currently possess a license and wish to renew it, please refer to the renewal section.

• Submission method: online
• Agency Fee: $155

Before Applying, Take In Consideration:

Domestic Applicants:

1. Identify a New Hampshire licensed architect who will be in responsible charge of the firm’s architectural activities. This individual should be a full-time employee.
2. Ensure that your business entity meets the ownership requirements specified by the New Hampshire Board of Architects.

Foreign Applicants:

1. Identify a New Hampshire licensed architect who will be in responsible charge of the firm’s architectural activities. This individual should be a full-time employee.
2. Ensure that your New Hampshire entity meets the ownership requirements specified by the New Hampshire Board of Architects.
3. Obtain a certificate of good standing from your business entity’s home state. The certificate should be filed during the foreign qualification process and must not be more than 60 days old.

How to apply:

Domestic Applicants:

1. File a Certificate of Authorization to Practice Architecture with the Joint Board of Licensure and Certification: Board of Architects.
2. File entity formation documents with the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division.

Foreign Applicants:

1. File a Certificate of Authorization to Practice Architecture with the Joint Board of Licensure and Certification: Board of Architects.
2. File foreign qualification documents with the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division.

Must-have Attachments

• Certificate of Good Standing: Obtain a certificate of good standing from your business entity’s home state. This certificate should indicate that your entity is in good standing and is authorized to conduct business.
• List of Corporate Officers or Partners: Provide a list of corporate officers or partners of the firm, including their addresses. This information helps identify the individuals responsible for the management and operation of the firm.
• Authorized Signatory: Provide the name of the person who is legally authorized to sign documents on behalf of the firm. This individual will have the authority to enter into contracts and agreements on behalf of the firm.

Registration Renewal

The following information pertains to architectural firms that are currently licensed in New Hampshire and are seeking to renew their license. Take into consideration:

• Submission method: online
• Agency Fee: $155
• Due: Biennially by the end of the month of expiration.
• Note: Renewal notifications are sent by email at 60 days and within 15 days prior to the expiration of your license.

Must-have Attachments

1. List of Officers, Managers, or Partners: Provide a comprehensive list of all officers, managers, or partners of the firm. Include their names, addresses, and positions within the firm. This information helps identify the individuals responsible for the management and operation of the firm.
2. List of Licensees in Responsible Charge: Include a list of licensees who are in responsible charge of the firm’s professional services. This includes architects or other licensed professionals who oversee and take responsibility for the firm’s architectural activities. Include their names, addresses, and license numbers.

Amendment

• Agency Fee: $80
• Due: Within 30 days of the effective date of the change.
• Note: Notify the board in writing with any changes.

Reinstatement

• Fill out the Application for Certificate of Authorization (Reinstatement)
• Agency Fee: $80 + $16 per month late.
• Note: Expired licenses that have been lapsed for longer than one year cannot be reinstated in New Hampshire. If your license has been expired for an extended period, you will need to apply for a new license rather than seeking reinstatement. The new license application process will require you to meet the current requirements and submit the necessary documentation as outlined by the New Hampshire Board of Architects.

Individual Licenses

New Hampshire Joint Board of Licensure and Certification – Board of Architects

First-Time Applicants

• Submission method: online
• Agency Fee: $325 application fee + $150 exam fee + $50 licensure fee

Reciprocal Registration

• Submission method: online
• Agency Fee: $250 application fee + $50 licensure fee

Registration Renewal

• Submission method: online
• Agency Fee: $155
• Due: Biennially by the end of the month of expiration.

New Hampshire Landscape Architect License

First-Time Applicants

• Submission method: online
• Agency Fee: $150 exam fee + $50 licensure fee

Registration Renewal

• Submission method: online.
• Agency Fee: $160
• Due: Biennially by the end of the month of expiration.

Non-State Level Architecture Firm Licenses in New Hampshire

This section aims to clarify licenses that are not required in New Hampshire for architecture firms.

New Hampshire Architecture Firm License

New Hampshire does not license or register interior design firms.

New Hampshire Landscape Architecture Firm License

New Hampshire does not require landscape architecture firm licensure at the state level. For more information, you can refer to the New Hampshire Board of Landscape Architects.

New Hampshire Interior Designer License

New Hampshire does not license or register interior design firms.

Register for the Architect Registration Examination

Securing an architect’s license in New Hampshire opens up a world of opportunities to practice architecture in the state. The journey commences with the pursuit of a professional degree in architecture, a fundamental requirement in your quest to become a licensed architect. This degree is not just a piece of paper, but a testament to your knowledge and comprehension of architectural principles, a rite of passage that equips you with the tools to craft and shape the built environment.

Remember, it’s important that your architecture degree is obtained from a program accredited by a recognized body such as the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). This accreditation assures that the program meets the industry’s standards and provides the necessary skills and training.

Architect registration in New Hampshire is a crucial step that formalizes your standing in the industry. This process includes satisfying the state’s requirements and passing the relevant examinations. With this license, you will have the legal authority to practice architecture, offering your expertise to develop the New Hampshire landscape. Now that you are armed with this information, you’re one step closer to realizing your architectural aspirations.

Disclaimer: These requirements are subject to change based on approval board discretion. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the New Hampshire Office of Proffesional Licensure and Certification