Which statement about the ARE's relation to licensing is true?

• A. Licensing boards issue licenses independently of ARE.
• B. Licensing boards design the ARE content.
• C. Licensing boards depend on the validity of the ARE to affirm competence.
• D. Licensing boards are not involved.

Answer: (C)

Licensing boards rely on the ARE as evidence that a candidate has the knowledge and skills needed to practice architecture safely. The exam provides a standardized, vetted measure of competence, which boards use alongside education and experience to decide whether to grant a license. Because boards must protect public welfare, they depend on the validity of the ARE to affirm that licensure represents real, demonstrable capability. The boards do not design the ARE content themselves; that work is coordinated by NCARB to ensure consistency across jurisdictions, and boards approve or adopt the resulting exam. They are actively involved in licensure decisions, and they do not operate independently of the ARE.