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Board adopts "architect in training" regulations, sets application fee
Summary
The California Architects Board approved regulations to implement the new "architect in training" (AIT) title, including supervisor responsibilities, limits on title use and an application fee set after debate. Staff will submit the rulemaking package to DCA for review.
The California Architects Board voted Feb. 26 to adopt regulatory text to implement a newly authorized "architect in training" (AIT) title created by statute. The package sets out application, renewal, inactive/reactivation processes, supervisor verification, and limits on use of the AIT title (allowed for up to four years unless otherwise extended by statute).
The board also debated and set the application fee. Board members extensively discussed fee methodology, the statute's requirement that a fee not exceed the board's reasonable cost to evaluate an application, and potential fiscal impacts if many candidates apply. After amendments and roll‑call votes the board adopted the package with the application fee set by the board in regulation and directed staff to submit the text to the Department of Consumer Affairs for pre‑review and then to initiate rulemaking.
Board concerns raised during debate included: whether AITs may advertise or distribute business cards while under supervision; supervisor liability for an AIT's regulatory violations; fingerprinting/background checks (currently required for architects, not mandated for AIT in the adopted package); and whether the period of title use should be two or four years. Staff said the statute allows up to four years and that a future renewal is possible within statutory limits. The board asked staff to monitor implementation and to report back if operational issues arise.
Next steps: Staff will file the adopted regulatory text with DCA for the 45‑day comment period and proceed with the rulemaking process if no adverse comments are received. The board directed staff to prepare the administrative and technical steps to implement the AIT program in time to meet statutory timelines.
Why it matters: The AIT title creates a formal, supervised pathway for candidates on the path to architectural licensure in California. The regulations define supervisor responsibilities and limits on the title's use, which has implications for firms that train candidates and for candidates tracking experience requirements.
Representative quote: During public comment, an industry representative noted a desire for a low application fee to avoid creating barriers for candidates, saying the comparable engineering exam applicant fees are much lower; staff replied that the fee must be tied to a cost study and can be revisited later.
