e-Career map: Licensed Architect

Your Path to Becoming an Architect in Ontario

This section takes you step by step through the application process, or path, for certification by the Canadian Architectual Certification Board (CACB) and licensing by the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA). To help you visualize the steps required to become licensed:

If you meet the following three criteria you can begin the Six-Step process toward the certification and licensing needed to practice architecture in Ontario.

1) have a professional degree or diploma in architecture from a post-secondary institution, and

2) are at least 18 years of age, of good character, and

3) are either a citizen or permanent resident of Canada or a member of an organization of architects that is recognized by the Council and that has objects, standards of practice and requirements for membership similar to those of the Ontario Association of Architects

This section details the process, including educational requirements, the work experience requirements, and the examination requirements. It includes two checklists that list the documents you are required to send for certification and licensure for OAA membership (licensing).

For more information and helpful resources for internationally trained professionals, please visit the OAA Information page for internationally trained professionals.

Start the Path

Download a visual overview of the path - [PDF, 80 KB]
Path 1

Education Requirements

Go to Path One

Experience Requirements

Go to Path Two

Architect Registration Examination

Go to Path Three

OAA Admission Course

Go to Path Three

Membership in the Ontario Association of Architects (Licensing)

Go to Path Five

Certificate of Practice

Go to Path Si.php