This past year was an exciting year with all of the changes that occurred at NCARB and the Intern Development Program (IDP). Lost in the excitement were a handful of important changes to rules made at DORA (Department of Regulatory Agencies) for those in Colorado who are pursuing licensure as an architect.
Starting on January 1st 2011, the following changes will go into effect:
Board Rule 4.4.1 will require that all experience needed in order to qualify for the ARE be obtained through following IDP guidelines. There are two exceptions to this rule. The first is that experience may be earned by working at least 20 hours per week for 6 consecutive weeks. The second exception is that Training Setting F only counts when working as a full-time employee.
As of January 1st, 2014, all applicants for an architect’s license in Colorado will be required to complete the NCARB IDP program. This puts to an end the path to licensure that involved qualifying for the ARE through many years of work experience alone.
Perhaps the most exciting development for those who are on the track for licensure is that Colorado will allow NAAB accredited degree holders who are enrolled in IDP to sit for the ARE prior to completing IDP hours. This is good new for those who may have had their licensure goals short circuited by the prolonged downturn in architectural work.
Now is a great time to revise your road map for attaining licensure. If you are still in school or a recent graduate, some synergies can be gained from completing a structures class and then taking that part of the exam. Keep an eye out for other synergies in your schooling or work to help you along.
Lastly, these new rules are in compliance with the policies of the AIA. Please refer to dora.state.co.us for complete information!
