Ohio Architecture Industry Licensing
Licensing requirements for architecture industry firms and individuals in Ohio.
This page provides an overview of architecture industry licensing in Ohio for individuals and firms. You will find state requirements, application fees, filing instructions, and more. For assistance with licensing, please contact us to learn about our software and managed license services.
Company Licenses
Ohio Architecture Company Licenses
Ohio Architecture Certificate of Authorization
Initial Registration
This section applies to architectural firms that are applying for a license in Ohio for the first time. If you already have a license and are looking to renew it, please see the renewal section.
| Filing Method: | Firms can apply online but must also submit a Firm Ownership Spreadsheet with the online application. |
| Agency Fee: | $125 |
| Notarize: | Required |
| Before you Apply: | Domestic Applicants:
Foreign Applicants:
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| How to Apply: | Domestic Applicants:
Foreign Applicants:
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| Required Attachments: |
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Registration Renewal
This section applies to architectural firms that are already licensed in Ohio and need to renew their license.
| Filing Method: | |
| Agency Fee: | $100 |
| Due: | Annually by June 30. |
| Notes: | Firms will be notified via email 60 days prior to the expiration date. |
| Required Attachments: |
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Amendment
| Agency Fee: | $0 |
| Due: | Within 30 days of the effective date of the change. |
| Notes: | Notify the board in writing with any changes. A change of firm name requires that you reapply and pay the $125 fee registration fee |
Ohio Interior Design Firm License
Not required
Interior Design Firm licensure is not required on the State level in Ohio.
Ohio does not currently license or register interior design businesses.
Ohio Landscape Architecture Certificate of Authorization
| Agency: | Ohio Board of Landscape Architects |
Initial Registration
| Form: | Firms can apply online but must also submit a Firm Ownership Spreadsheet with the online application. |
| Agency Fee: | $125 |
| Required Attachments: |
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Registration Renewal
| Filing Method: | |
| Agency Fee: | $100 |
| Due: | Annually by June 30. |
| Notes: | Firms will be notified via email 60 days prior to the expiration date. |
| Required Attachments: |
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Individual Licenses
Ohio Individual Architecture Licenses
Ohio Architect License
Initial Registration
This section applies to architects that are applying for a license in Ohio for the first time.
| Form: | http://www.arc.ohio.gov/FormsandApplications.aspx |
| Agency Fee: | $50 exam fee. No application fee. |
Reciprocal Registration
This section applies to architects licensed in another state that are looking for reciprocal licensure in Ohio.
| Agency Fee: | $250 |
Registration Renewal
This section applies to architects that are already licensed in Ohio and need to renew their license.
| Agency Fee: | $125 |
| Due: | By December 31 of odd-numbered years. |
Ohio Interior Designer License
Not required
Interior Designer licensure is not required on the State level in Ohio.
Learn about architecture licensing in other states:
ARE (Architect Registration Examination) - Assesses candidates for their knowledge, skills, and ability to provide the various services required to be a practicing architect.
AXP (Architectural Experience Program) - NCARB program for architectural internship, a requirement for licensure that occurs after filling the educational requirements.
BEFA (Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect) - An alternative NCARB certification that allows foreign architects to independently practice architecture.
COA (Certificate of Authorization) - The most common name of the registration required for firms to practice architecture in a given state.
Design Firm - Architectural firm registration is sometimes grouped with engineering and land surveying on a single “design firm” application form.
NCARB Certification - Licensed architects have the option to become Certificate holders to signify that they have met national standards established by U.S. licensing boards for protecting public health, safety, and welfare. Certification also facilitates reciprocal registration in all 54 jurisdictions, 11 Canadian jurisdictions, and can be used to support an application for licensure in other countries.
Reciprocity - This is when a licensed architect in one state can provide documentation (often a NCARB certificate) to more easily apply for licensure in another jurisdiction.
State Board - Often referred to as the State Architects Licensure Board or Board of Architects, an individual state’s board serves as the regulatory authority for architects. The board qualifies and licenses individuals seeking architectural licensure. The board is responsible for preserving the public health, safety, and welfare of individuals who occupy built environments.
National Architecture Accrediting Board
NAAB establishes criteria for and accredits professional architecture degree programs in the United States.
The American Institute of
Architecture Students (AIAS)
AIAS is an independent, student-run group that promotes excellence in architecture education, training, and practice.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA)
AIA is a voluntary professional organization for architects providing advocacy, information, and community.
The Association of Collegiate
Schools of Architecture (ACSA)
ACSA represents architectural education programs across the globe.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
NCARB is the national organization representing the state registration boards.
