If you dream of designing buildings in the Land of the Midnight Sun, you’ll need more than creative vision—you’ll need an Alaska architecture license.
Here’s a step-by-step look at the different paths to licensure and what makes Alaska’s process unique.

1. Earn the Right Degree

Alaska requires a professional degree in architecture:

• B.Arch (Bachelor of Architecture) or

• M.Arch (Master of Architecture)

Your program must be accredited by the NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board)
No shortcuts here—this is the first box the state checks.

2. Log Your Experience (AXP)

You’ll need to complete the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), run by NCARB.
That means 3,740 hours of hands-on work in areas like design, project management, and construction documentation.
Think of it as your architectural boot camp—every hour logged moves you closer to the license.

3. Pass the ARE

The Architect Registration Examination (ARE 5.0) is the nationwide standard. Six divisions. Multiple test dates.
It’s designed to prove you can handle real-world practice, from schematic design to site planning. Pass them all, and you’ve cleared one of the biggest hurdles.

4. Alaska’s Arctic Design Requirement

Here’s where Alaska sets itself apart:
You must complete a board-approved Arctic (cold-regions) engineering or design course.
Given Alaska’s extreme climate, the state wants architects who can design buildings that can handle permafrost, high winds, and ice buildup—not just look good on paper.

5. Apply for Your License

Once you’ve nailed education, experience, exams, and the Arctic course:

• Submit your application to the Alaska Board of Architects, Engineers & Land Surveyors

• Include all verifications

• Pay the fees (around $200 for the application and $100 for registration)

6. Licensure by Comity (For Out-of-State Architects)

Already licensed somewhere else? Alaska doesn’t have automatic reciprocity, but you can apply by comity if:

• You submit your NCARB Record

• Provide license verifications and possibly reference letters

• Complete the Arctic design course (yes, even if you’ve been practicing for decades)

The board will review your case individually.

7. Keep It Current

Licenses expire every two years on March 31st. To renew:

• Complete the required continuing education

• Follow the updated CE rules (revised October 15, 2023)

• Submit your renewal application on time—Alaska is not lenient with late filings