Monday, November 21, 2011

South Carolina Landscape Architect License Requirements


South Carolina Landscape Architect License Requirements
How To Guide To Initial Licensure
South Carolina is a state with diverse natural environments an a long history of landscape design. From rugged mountains to historic cities, like Charleston, South Carolina has many opportunities for landscape architects. Follow the steps in this how-to guide to get a license to practice landscape architecture. 
Basic Licensure Requirements
Before you can apply for a landscape architecture license, there are a few basic requirements you must complete. These requirements fall under the following categories:
  • English Requirement
  • Professional Education
  • Landscape Architecture Work Experience
  • Pass the LARE
English Proficiency
If your reading this blog, you already meet this requirement. The state of South Carolina requires all landscape architect candidates to be proficient in written and spoken English. I'm sure that this is the easiest requirement to complete for the vast majority of license-seekers.
Education 
There are two ways to meet the education requirement for South Carolina registration.
Option A: Graduate from a LAAB-accredited degree in landscape architecture that is approved by the board. You can find a list of approved schools on the board's website. In addition to education, you need two years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed landscape architect.
Option B: Graduate from a non-accredited landscape architecture college program or graduate with a degree in a related field that is approved by the South Carolina state board. You also need five years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed landscape architect or another professional acceptable to the board.
Work Experience
Professional work experience is required before you can apply for a landscape architect license. All work experience needs to be performed under the direct supervision of a registered landscape architect or another professional deemed acceptable by the board. The amount of work experience required for a license depends on your education background. Refer to the section above to determine your required level of experience.
Pass the LARE Exam
Before you can take the LARE, you must compete the education and experience requirements. You must submit an application for licensure directly to the South Carolina state board. Have your college send official transcripts to either you or directly to the state board to verify your education experience. Also, you will need five references complete the reference verification form. The state board will review your completed application and send you written notice that you may register for the LARE.
Register for the LARE through CLARB's website. Sections A, B, and D ate offered a Sylvan Learning Centers throughout the state during the two week exam period. Check out CLARB's website at www.clarb.com for test dates and registration information.
LARE sections C and E are offered in June and December at the state's regional testing center in Columbia. Register for these sections through CLARB's website.
You must pass all sections of the LARE before the state will grant you a landscape architect license.
Step-by-Step Guide to Licensure
Follow these steps on your path to licensure:
  1. Graduate with a degree in landscape architecture or a related field acceptable to the board.
  2. Get professional work experience under the direct supervision of a registered landscape architect or related professional. The amount of work experience required depends on your education. See the section on education above for more information.
  3. Send in the South Carolina state license application for the LARE exam. After your application in approved by the board, your name will appear on the pre-approved list for the LARE.
  4. Register for the LARE exam at CLARB's website.
  5. Prepare for the LARE.
  6. Pass all sections of the LARE.
  7. Pay the initial license fee.
  8. Wait for your license in the mail. Celebrate when it arrives because you are now license to practice landscape architecture.
  9. Purchase a rubber stamp to sign and seal drawings.
  10. Take continuing education classes to meet the state's renewal requirements.
Final Thoughts
The road to licensure can be challenging an even frustrating at times. Don't get discouraged by setbacks along the way. Study for the LARE exam and get as much real world experience as possible. The more you know about the profession, the better landscape architect you'll become. Just remember, many landscape architects have stood where you are now and overcame the obstacles to get registered as a landscape architect. You can do it, too. Good luck!
For More Information
For more information on landscape architecture licensing requirements in the state if South Carolina, visit the state board's website. 
ASLA also has many informative resources on their website at www.asla.org.
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Disclaimer: The information posted here is for your convenience only and was believed to be up-to-date at the time of writing.  Please check with state licensure boards and CLARB for the latest information.  If you find something on this post is out-of-date or inaccurate, please send me a note. Thanks and good luck with your career in landscape architecture.
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