LARE Exam Preparation and Study-Guide: Wisconsin Landscape Architect License Requirements

Wisconsin Landscape Architect License Requirements

How-To Guide to Professional Licensure

Wisconsin is a charming state with a long history of of built spaces and natural and agrarian landscapes. Landscape architects help preserve the natural environment and protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare and create beautiful, usable space. Follow the advice in this article to get licensed to practice landscape architecture in Wisconsin.

Basic Requirements

There are a few requirements that landscape architect candidates need to complete before applying for a landscape architect license in Wisconsin.

Professional Education
Landscape Architecture Work Experience

Education

There are two ways to satisfy professional education requirement.

First, you can graduate from a LAAB-accredited landscape architecture program (undergraduate or graduate). In addition to a college degree in landscape architecture, you will need to work under the direct supervision of a licensed landscape architect for two years.

If you don’t have a college degree but have at least two years of landscape architect education and seven years of work experience, you may be able to qualify for licensure.

Work Experience

All work experience should be conducted under the direct supervision of a licensed landscape architect.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps as you walk on the path towards licensure:

Graduate from a LAAB-accredited landscape architecture program.
Get a job working under the direct supervision of a licensed landscape architect. The amount of work experience you need will to have is determined by your level of education. See the discussion on education above to find out how much you need before applying for licensure.
Create a Council Record on with the Council of Landscape Architect Registration Boards’ website at www.clarb.org. Register for the multiple-choice sections of the LARE.
Complete the Eligibility Application for the Landscape Architect Examination (form #2188) and all supporting documents. All new applicants (those applying for the L.A.R.E. for the first time in Wisconsin) must submit the Eligibility Application for the Landscape Architect Examination (form #2188) and all supporting documents to the Department of Regulation and Licensing to determine eligibility to take the exam. Failure to submit the Eligibility Application for the Landscape Architect Examination (form #2188) will result in your being ineligible to sit for the examination. The application deadline for the exam is 90 days prior to the examination date. Applicants are encouraged to submit the exam application early because the Landscape Architect Section only meets in March and September to review applications. All applicants must be pre-approved to take the multiple choice or the the graphic sections of the exam.
Prepare for the LARE. Many candidates find the LARE to be extremely challenging. Increase you odds of success by studying. Read all the landscape architecture technical books recommended by CLARB, take a practice exam, join a Google LARE group, or attend a LARE workshop. Candidates who come prepared do much better than those who think the don't need to study.
Take and pass all sections of the LARE.
Wait for your landscape architect license in the mail.
Get a seal made so you can sign and stamp drawings.
Keep your license up-to-date. Wisconsin requires continuing education classes as a condition to renew your landscape architect license.

Final Thoughts

The road to licensure can be long an full of frustrations along the way. Don't lose hope. Many aspiring landscape architects have stood where you are and have achieved their dream of becoming a registered landscape architect. Prepare for the LARE and find the best work experience you can. The broader your professional knowledge, the better you will do on the exams. You’ll also become a better, more competent landscape architect. You can do it, too.

For More Information

For more information on landscape architect license requirements in Wisconsin , visit the state licensing board’s website. You will find current laws and regulations as well as applications for when you are ready to apply.

Also, check out the American Society of Landscape Architects website for more information on licensure.

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