How we passed the Architecture Registration Exams (ARE 5.0)

Consider this our very own “how to guide” on architectural licensure.

As active University of Miami alumni, we often interact with Architecture students and the questions we get asked most frequently are:

“How did you obtain your Architecture License?”

“Was it hard to pass the AREs?”

“Is it worth getting licensed?”

Well, here’s the answer. Keep reading because after years of accumulating hours at different architecture firms, studying mornings and nights (before and after work), and marathon like test taking - we did it! Here’s to hoping our guide helps you too!

Requirements:

Step 1: NAAB - Accredited Architecture Degree

We are assuming if you’re reading this, you probably already have this one done or in the works. Kudos!

Step 2: Gain and register your Experience (AXP)

3,740 required hours spread across six divisions to be exact. Not going to say a lot about this one because it’s pretty straight forward, but we recommend starting these while in school. Also keep in mind, you can obtain some hours from a Master’s degree. Here is a link to the official guide. Keep in mind, requirements vary by state.

Step 3: Architecture Registration Exams

This is the kicker. Six exams spanning material from six different divisions.

Practice Management
Project Management
Programming & Analysis
Project Planning & Design
Project Development & Documentation
Construction & Evaluation

Let’s start with order of operations. We recommend taking them in the following order:

Practice Management
Project Management
Construction & Evaluation
Programming & Analysis
Project Planning & Design
Project Development & Documentation

How to Guide:

SCHEDULE

While some say it is harder to study for the ARE while working full time, we disagree. If you have all the time in the world, you will find any excuse in the book to procrastinate. By contrast, we took advantage of our work time table and scheduled around it. We studied early mornings (7-9am), after work (6-8pm) and full weekends to pass these exams. This went on for about 12 months during which we hit every coffee shop in town, struggling to find the combination of good coffee, pleasant atmosphere, and outlets.

STUDY BUDDY

Some tidbits of advice from two lady architects. Finding a study partner is key. Going over material with someone who is as motivated as you gives you a deeper understanding of the subject matter. You’ll remember something on test day just because of an inside joke that was made over one of the formulas.

STUDY MATERIALS AND METHODS

Don’t waste your hard earned $$$ on the books. Practice tests are absolutely worth it, but no other text.

We read tons of blogs and periodicals online looking for material and prep courses.

Black Spectacles: This is totally worth it. I would listen to his videos everyday on the treadmill. Then taking his practice exams simulate the actual exam interface. It is perfect for getting comfortable with the exam look & feel.

Schiff Hardin Lectures: This is amazing for passing the first 2 exams and arguably the last. Listen over and over, even on commute time (we listened while driving to and from work). Take notes. Look at the AIA contracts so you know what he is talking about.

Hyperfine: This is a must for passing PPD and PDD. Literally a life saver. You can thank us later.

Jenny’s Notes: This is an excellent study guide that can serve as an outline. Do this after you do Black Spectacles. Download here for FREE.