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California · Architects · 2026 renewal guide

How to Renew Your California Architect License

California architects must complete 10 hours of board-approved continuing education every 2 years, as required by California Architects Board (CAB).

Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the California Architects Board (CAB) rule on September 10, 2026.

CE hours
10 hours
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Next deadline
Per license
Exam to renew
Not required

Who has to renew

This guide covers California architects holding a license in one of these classes: Architect, Standard Biennial CE — All California Architects. Requirements are set by California Architects Board (CAB).

When to renew

California architects licenses renew every 2 years, on the schedule your board assigns to your license. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (California Business and Professions Code § 5600 (as amended by SB 1452, effective Jan 1, 2025): licenses issued prior to Jan 1, 2025 expire every two years on the last day of the licensee's birth month; licenses issued on or after Jan 1, 2025 expire every two years on the last day of the month of issuance — both are rolling/staggered schedules)

The continuing education California requires

California Architects Board (CAB) requires 10 hours of approved continuing education every 2 years. The hours must cover these topics:

  • Disability access requirements — at least 5 hours
  • Zero net carbon design — at least 5 hours

How to renew, step by step

  1. 1

    Confirm your license class and renewal date

    California sets architects requirements by license class (Architect, Standard Biennial CE — All California Architects). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run the schedule your board assigns to your license.

  2. 2

    Complete 10 hours of board-approved continuing education

    California Architects Board (CAB) requires 10 hours every 2 years, including Disability access requirements, Zero net carbon design. Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.

    See the California architects course
  3. 3

    Save your certificate of completion

    Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records; California audits can reach back several years.

  4. 4

    Make sure your hours reach the board

    In California, completions are submitted through the board’s online licensing portal, within 10 days of completion. You can confirm your hours are on file in the reporting system linked below.

    Check your hours on file
  5. 5

    Renew with California Architects Board (CAB)

    Submit your renewal and pay the renewal fee before the deadline. A late renewal usually means a late fee, and a lapsed license can mean re-applying from scratch.

    Go to California Architects Board (CAB)

California architect renewal FAQ

How many continuing education hours do California architects need?
California architects must complete 10 hours of board-approved continuing education every 2 years, as set by California Architects Board (CAB).
Which license classes does the California architects CE requirement apply to?
The 10 hours requirement applies to: Architect, Standard Biennial CE — All California Architects.
What topics are required for California architects continuing education?
California Architects Board (CAB) requires coverage of: Disability access requirements (5 hours); Zero net carbon design (5 hours).
How are completed CE hours reported to California Architects Board (CAB)?
Completed hours are reported through the board's online portal within 10 days of completion. You also receive a certificate of completion for your records.
Can California architects complete continuing education online?
Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the California requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.

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