Exam Guide
The ARE is the multi-division exam required for architectural licensure in the United States. Administered by NCARB, the ARE 5.0 tests competency across six practice areas that every licensed architect must master.
6
Divisions
500
Total Questions
5 Years
Rolling Clock
$235
Per Division
| Division | Name | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCM | Practice Management | 65 | 3h 15min |
| PJM | Project Management | 65 | 3h 15min |
| PA | Programming & Analysis | 65 | 3h 15min |
| PPD | Project Planning & Design | 120 | 5h |
| PDD | Project Development & Documentation | 120 | 5h |
| CE | Construction & Evaluation | 65 | 3h 15min |
To sit for the ARE, candidates must hold a degree from a NAAB-accredited program (or equivalent) and have established an NCARB Record. Most jurisdictions also require completion of the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) before or during the ARE process.
Each division is pass/fail. NCARB uses a scaled scoring system - there is no published passing percentage. Once you pass your first division, a 5-year rolling clock starts. All six divisions must be passed within that window, or the earliest pass expires.
The most effective ARE prep combines active recall study methods (flashcards and practice questions) with timed exam simulations. Passive reading of reference manuals builds familiarity but not the retrieval ability the exam tests.
AREprep provides 2,500+ flashcards, 270+ timed practice exams, and detailed explanations for every answer across all six divisions.