What are the consequences of violating the ARE Candidate Agreement?

• A. A warning letter with no penalties.
• B. Automatic eligibility extension.
• C. Severe disciplinary action, including suspension of testing privileges and invalidation of exam scores.
• D. No impact.

Answer: (C)

Violating the ARE Candidate Agreement undermines the integrity of the testing process, so NCARB imposes strict disciplinary actions to protect fairness and the validity of the credentialing system. The most significant consequence described is severe disciplinary action, including suspension of testing privileges (you’d be barred from registering for or taking exams for a period) and invalidation of exam scores (scores from exams taken during the violation can be voided). Depending on the severity, additional penalties such as longer suspensions or loss of eligibility may also follow. Aiming to deter cheating and maintain trust in licensure, these measures are the standard response to violations.