LARE Exam Preparation and Study-Guide: Idaho Landscape Architect License Information

Idaho Landscape Architect License Information

How to Become A Registered Landscape Architect

Idaho is a state full of rugged mountains and beautiful valleys. Landscape architects help preserve the natural splendor of Idaho and design beautiful spaces for people. Get a landscape architect license and become a registered steward of the land.

Basic Requirements

There are a few minimum requirements you must complete before you can apply for a landscape architect license:

Minimum Age

You need to be at least 18 years of age in order to qualify for a landscape architect license in Idaho. For most people, this is the easiest requirement to meet.

Education

Most candidates for licensure complete a LAAB-accredited college degree in landscape architecture. You can possess either a masters degree or bachelors degree to meet the education requirement.

What if you don’t have a degree in landscape architecture? Idaho law allows candidates who have at least 8 years of practical experience in landscape architecture experience (with at least four years under the direct supervision of a licensed landscape architect) to apply for licensure in lieu of a college degree.

Landscape-Architect-In-Training

Idaho has a unique provision in their state registration laws that allows some landscape architect candidates to apply for a Landscape-Architect-In-Training license. You must meet all of the regular licensure requirements except for passing the LARE. Also, you must be employed in the profession and be supervised by a licensed landscape architect. While you cannot stamp and sign drawings with a Landscape-Architect-In-Training license, it does give you some professional credibility. You can only maintain this license status for six years. Many aspiring landscape architects apply for the training status while they are working on passing the LARE.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps on your path to licensure:

Turn 18 years old.
Graduate with a college degree in landscape architecture from an approved landscape architecture program.
Get a job working under the direct supervision of a licensed landscape architect.
Begin a Council Record at CLARB’s website. You need to provide verification of work experience and education to complete the application process.
Apply for a Landscape-Architect-In-Training license. You must be working under the supervision of a licensed landscape architect.
Apply to take the LARE exam. You apply for the LARE through CLARB’s website at www.clarb.org.
Prepare for the LARE. Many candidates do not pass the LARE the first time. CLARB’s own passing rate statistics are pretty discouraging. But, you can prepare yourself to take the exam and increase your odds of success. Read the landscape architecture books recommended by CLARB, study with a practice exam at home, or attend a LARE exam preparation workshop. The more you prepare for the LARE, the better your chances are of passing the first time.
Take and pass all sections of the LARE.
Forward you CLARB Council Record to the Idaho board.
Apply for a landscape architect license with the state board in Idaho. You will need to print out and complete the application on the Idaho board’s website. Also include official transcripts from your university and employment verification forms. While you are at it, file a notice of intent to take the Idaho written exam.
Pass the Idaho written exam in addition to the LARE. You apply to take this exam when you apply for your initial license. Refer to the Idaho state board’s web page for more information.
Pay the initial licensing fee and wait for your license in the mail. Celebrate when it arrives...you are now a licensed landscape architect! Congratulations.
Get a rubber stamp made so you can seal and sign drawings.
Maintain your license through continuing education. Don’t forget to renew your license annually.

Final Thoughts

Don’t get discouraged if the road to licensure seems long and arduous. Many have stood in your shoes and have finished the journey to become registered landscape architects. You can do it, too.

Prepare for the LARE exam to improve your chances of success and reduce your personal stress level. The more you know, the better you will do and the more competent professional you will become.

For More Information

For more information about becoming a licensed landscape architect in the state of Idaho, check out the Idaho state board’s website at http://www.ibol.idaho.gov/IBOL/BoardAdditional.aspx?Bureau=LAR&BureauLinkID=100.

ASLA also has lots of information about the licensure process on their website at www.asla.org. If you are not a member of ASLA, I strongly urge you to become a member of the largest organization of landscape architects.

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