Licensing reciprocity and comity for architects and engineers

Architects and engineers licensed in one state can often obtain a license in most other states through reciprocity, comity, or endorsement — a process that varies by state.

In this article, we explain the requirements for engineers and architects who want to offer services in more than one state.

Reciprocity, comity, and endorsement: Definition

Let’s look at the differences of each of these terms:

• Reciprocity agreements: In reciprocity agreements, one jurisdiction enters into mutual exchanges of privileges with another state or jurisdiction whose licensing standards are substantially equivalent to or higher than its own.
• Comity: Comity is the informal and voluntary recognition of one state’s licensing laws by another state. In its simplest form, comity means that two states acknowledge they have similar licensure laws and may accept all or portions of an applicant’s qualifications accordingly.
• Licensure by endorsement: This means there is no reciprocal licensure agreement with another state, but the qualifications for obtaining a license in that state are similar to those of another state.

The terms reciprocity, comity, and endorsement are often used interchangeably, but they all usually refer to the process of obtaining an architecture or engineering license in another state.

Reciprocity, comity, and endorsement: Eligibility

Being licensed in one jurisdiction does not mean that you can automatically obtain a license in another.

To become licensed through reciprocity, comity, or endorsement, you must first meet the state board’s requirements. Generally, you are required to have:

• Graduated from an accredited program
• Passed the FE and PE (or FS and PS) exams (engineers)
• Passed the ARE exam (architects)
• Completed the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) (architects)
• A minimum number of years of experience
• Provided an affidavit or certification that you have a license in another jurisdiction that is in good standing
• Submitted an attestation of good moral character

There is a great deal of variation between jurisdictions when it comes to licensing requirements. Some jurisdictions in the U.S. require candidates to graduate from an accredited program, and others waive examination requirements for those with postgraduate education or extensive experience.

It is also possible for jurisdictions to have varying requirements regarding what constitutes acceptable experience. It may be challenging for candidates who received their initial license based on different standards to obtain reciprocity/comity in other jurisdictions.

Reciprocity, comity, and endorsement: Process

Obtaining a license by reciprocity, comity, or endorsement typically requires submitting a license application that includes education, work experience, exam scores, and references — and paying a fee. If the board is satisfied with your credentials, it will issue a license.

When applying for licensure in multiple states you may need one of the following:

• A National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB) Certificate. An NCARB Certificate certifies an architect has met the rigorous national standards set by U.S. licensing boards. It is possible in some states to get a reciprocal license without being NCARB certified. All U.S. jurisdictions accept the NCARB Certificate, and for many states it is a requirement.
• A National Council of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors (NCEES) record. An NCEES record is a verified compilation of your official academic transcripts, full employment history, reference letters, and exam scores. This record can save you time and simplify the application process for an engineering license. A NCEES record must be established before applying for a comity license in Georgia, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, or Wyoming.

Note: If you are an NCEES record holder, you may still need to provide additional information on your education, references, licenses, and experience.

Temporary engineering license

Several states issue temporary licenses allowing engineers licensed in other states to perform engineering services. If you are an engineer and are working on a single project, you may qualify for these interim licenses.

The license is valid for a limited period of time and generally limits the licensee to one project. There is usually a shorter waiting period for a temporary engineering/architecture license than for a full registration through comity, for example.

Conclusion

Before you engage with a client in a state where you are not licensed, make sure you understand the laws and requirements in the state where the work is to be performed. Some states require architects and engineers to become licensed before submitting a proposal, signing a contract, or beginning work.

Be sure to renew your license before its expiration date to avoid a lapse in licensure. If a license has lapsed or is inactive, you may not perform professional services until the license is renewed or reinstated.

CT Corporation can help

Outsourcing business registration and license research, applications, management, and renewals can help take the pressure off internal resources. By working with a full-service management provider who specializes in the efficient processing of business licenses, permits, and registrations, you can free up your time to focus on starting and growing your architecture and engineering services while ensuring you keep up with changing compliance requirements.

For more information on CT Corporation services and how we can streamline your business licensing, please contact a CT Corporation business license specialist.

For more detailed information, read Architecture firm business licensing and other legal requirements.