First, you must graduate from an NAAB accredited school program.

     Establish an NCARB file in order to begin your IDP Process So what is IDP (Internship Development Program)?
    IDP is a structured system that helps you gain a wholesome experience as an intern/employee of a firm. IDP helps you become a professional so that you may be better prepared to become a licensed/practicing architect.

    What are the Objectives of IDP?
    To define areas of architectural practice.
    To encourage additional training in architectural practice.
    To provide advice about educational, internship and professional issues.
    To provide a system for documentation and internship activity.
    To provide greater access to educational opportunities.

     How long does IDP take?
    It depends on how fast you finish your training units. It should take about
    three years.
    700 Training Units = 5,600 hours (1 TU = 8hrs) = about 2 years, 10 months

    Some state boards allow recent architectural graduates to start taking their exam as soon as they graduate from an accredited institution.
    OK, MO, IA, NE and KS have recently agreed to let their architectural graduates do this. (Check with your state board to see when you can start
    taking the ARE.)

    Become familiar with the forms
    NCARB Employment Verification.
    IDP Training Unit Report forms     (fill out this form regularly - it keeps your NCARB record updated. Submit monthly if you can. If you let 6 months
    pass, you will lose your earned time).
    Transcript Request.

    Identify a Supervisor
    This person has a good idea about IDP's objective and training requirements
    in order to provide you with opportunities.
    Your IDP Supervisor verifies your Training Report forms.
    A supervisor is a registered architect working in the same firm as you.
    Check Training Settings for those who qualify as a supervisor.

    Identify a Mentor
    Licensed architect, preferably outside your firm.
    Supervisor may be your mentor, but it is not recommended.
    You meet regularly to seek advice and review your progress.

    Develop a system for documenting your training activities (workbook).
    Your firm may provide a way to document your working hours which correspond with your IDP documentation.
    Ask your employer to help you coordinate working hours.

    So what happens after IDP?
    Contact NCARB through your online resources and let them know of your intent to apply for the ARE (Architectural Registration Exam).
    Acquire application materials from your State Board.
    Have your IDP record transmitted to your local State Board by NCARB.
    Provide adequate background information and take exam.

     Lastly, upon finalizing IDP and the ARE, send your information to the state board where you want to become licensed. When they confer your license, you may finally call yourself an Architect.