Architects

Architect (Architect AIBC)

Under the Architects Act and Bylaws, the words “member” and “architect” and the professional title “Architect AIBC” are reserved for architects: those applicants who meet the education, experience and examination requirements for engaging in the full range of activities defined as the practice of architecture in the province of British Columbia.

In order to qualify for registration as an architect, an individual must meet the following general requirements, as established by section 36 of the Architects Act:

• be at least age 19 years of age,
• be of good moral character,
• if the individual has practised as an architect, provide evidence of good professional conduct,
• provide proof of identification,
• submit qualifications, examinations and other information as required by council, according to the programs and agreements approved by council (refer to these programs and agreements for specific requirements below), and
• pay the required fees for registration (refer to Bulletin 1: Fees, Fines and Charges updated annually).

There are several paths to registration as an Architect at the AIBC. Each of these paths have specific qualifications that must be met in addition to the general requirements listed above. These pathways are as follows;

1. Completion of the Internship in Architecture Program.
2. Application for current Canadian architects under the Canadian Reciprocity Agreement.
3. Application for current US architects under the NCARB-CALA Mutual Recognition Agreement.
4. Application for current APEC Architects from Australia or New Zealand under the Trilateral Arrangement on Reciprocal Recognition of Registered/Licensed Architects In Australia, Canada And New Zealand to Facilitate Mobility of Architects in the Provision of Architectural Services.
5. Application for current Mexican or US architects under the Tri-National Mutual Recognition Agreement for the International Practice of Architecture among Canada, the United States and Mexico as administered by the Ontario Association of Architects. See also AIBC News posting.
6. Completion of Alternate Qualifications programs, including the CACB Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) Program or the AIBC’s Broadly Experienced Applicant (BEA) Program.

In order to practice in B.C., an architect must either apply for and obtain a Certificate of Practice (licence), or must work for a person, partnership or firm that holds a current Certificate of Practice.

AIBC Contact

Please contact the Registration & Licensing department at registration@aibc.ca for more information.