Questions and Answers
- General | Education | Experience | Examination | Licensing | The Job Market
This section provides answers to common questions about the certification and licensing process for architects.
Questions on the Licensing Requirements
- I have completed the education, experience, and examination requirements. What do I do next to be able to practice as an architect in Ontario?
- What do I need to include in my Application for Licence?
- Where can I find the document Guidelines for Completion of an Application for Licence, which can help me complete the application form for OAA licensing?
- How long does it take to receive my Licence from the OAA?
- What are the costs to become a member of the OAA?
I have completed the education, experience, and examination requirements. What do I do next to be able to practice as an architect in Ontario?
There are three steps left:
- You must attend the OAA Admission Course
- You must submit an Application for Licence to the OAA (licensing)
- You must be the holder of a Certificate of Practice. Visit the Certificate of Practice page on the OAA Web site to obtain an Application for Certificate of Practice.
What do I need to include in my Application for Licence?
The following documents must be included with the Application for Licence:
- the completed and signed Application for Licence
- proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence in Canada; submit photocopies of your documents
- proof of CACB certification; attach a copy of the CACB certificate to your application
- proof of the required work experience; submit any sections of the Canadian Experience Record Book that have not been reviewed and approved
- application fee
- annual Licence fee
Where can I find the document Guidelines for Completion of an Application for Licence, which can help me complete the application form for OAA licensing?
For help in completing the Application for Licence, you can download the document Guidelines for Completion of an Application for Licence from the OAA Web site
How long does it take to receive my Licence from the OAA?
You will receive the notice of the OAA decision regarding licensure by mail, approximately 3 to 5 weeks after you submit the Application for Licence and all of the accompanying documents. All internationally trained/educated architects who include experience gained outside of Canada or the USA as part of their total experience submission are required to attend an interview with the Experience Requirements Committee (ERC). Before the interview, you will be requested to submit architectural working drawings, specifications, and contract administration documents for review. Once the documents have been received, an interview time will be arranged.
What are the costs to become a member of the OAA?
These fees change each year; contact the OAA before you submit payment.
OAA Licensing Fees
| Application Fee for Licence | $275.00 |
| Admission Course | $540.00 |
| Annual Licence Fee | $760.00 |
| Seal (depending on type) | $35, $45, $115 |
| On referral of an Application for Licence to the Experience Requirements Committee | $250.00 |
| Note: Canadian funds + GST. Non-refundable. Shipping costs may apply |
OAA Certificate of Practice Fees
| Application for Certificate of Practice | $250.00 |
| Annual Certificate of Practice (1 architect) | $390.00 |
| Annual Certificate of Practice (2 - 4 architects) | $630.00 |
| Annual Certificate of Practice (5 - 10 architects) | $1,295.00 |
| Annual Certificate of Practice (11+ architects) | $3,325.00 |
| Note: Canadian funds + GST, plus the annual fee |