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District of Columbia · Architects · 2026 renewal guide

How to Renew Your District of Columbia Architect License

District of Columbia architects must complete 24 hours of board-approved continuing education every 2 years, as required by DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP).

Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP) rule on September 4, 2026.

CE hours
24 hours
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Next deadline
April 30, 2028
Exam to renew
Not required

Who has to renew

This guide covers District of Columbia architects holding a All licensees license. Requirements are set by DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP).

When to renew

District of Columbia architects licenses renew every 2 years, on a fixed statewide date — every licensee renews on the same day. The next renewal deadline is April 30, 2028. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (DC Architects: Apr 30 of even years; 24 HSW CE (dlcp.dc.gov; corroborated CLARB - DCMR fetch timed out))

The continuing education District of Columbia requires

DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP) requires 24 hours of approved continuing education every 2 years. The hours must cover these topics:

  • Health, Safety and Welfare (all 24 PDU)

How to renew, step by step

  1. 1

    Confirm your license class and renewal date

    District of Columbia sets architects requirements by license class (All licensees). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run a fixed statewide date — every licensee renews on the same day; the next fixed deadline is April 30, 2028.

  2. 2

    Complete 24 hours of board-approved continuing education

    DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP) requires 24 hours every 2 years, including Health, Safety and Welfare (all 24 PDU). Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.

    See the District of Columbia architects course
  3. 3

    Save your certificate of completion

    Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records.

  4. 4

    Make sure your hours reach the board

    In District of Columbia, you keep your certificate of completion and present it to the board if asked.

  5. 5

    Renew with DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP)

    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 DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP)

District of Columbia architect renewal FAQ

How many continuing education hours do District of Columbia architects need?
District of Columbia architects must complete 24 hours of board-approved continuing education every 2 years, as set by DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP).
What topics are required for District of Columbia architects continuing education?
DC Board of Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture (DLCP) requires coverage of: Health, Safety and Welfare (all 24 PDU).
Can District of Columbia architects complete continuing education online?
Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the District of Columbia requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.

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