Frequently Asked Questions - Landscape Architects Technical Committee

What is the difference between a landscape architect and a landscape designer?

A landscape architect is an individual who holds a professional license to practice landscape architecture, as defined under Business and Professions Code section (BPC) 5615. Landscape architects use their technical and artistic talents to plan and design the built environment. They formulate graphic and written criteria (including drawings, construction documents, and specifications) that govern the allocation, arrangement, and construction of land elements and water resources. Engagement in the practice of landscape architecture or use of the title "landscape architect," or any other confusingly similar title, by an unlicensed individual is a violation of the Landscape Architects Practice Act.

Landscape architects who are initially licensed in California are required to have six years of combined training and educational credit, pass the national licensing examination, and pass the California Supplemental Examination. Once licensed, landscape architects are required to comply with the laws and regulations governing the practice.

Landscape designers are not licensed or regulated by the State of California and are limited to preparing plans, drawings, and specifications for the selection, placement, or use of plants or drawings for the conceptual design and placement of tangible objects and landscape features for single family dwellings (BPC 5641). They are not required to obtain educational and/or training background.

For a general description of the permitted practice for various landscape professionals/practitioners, please see the Landscape Design In California chart.

How do I verify the status of a landscape architect license?

You may click here to verify the status of a license or contact the LATC.

Can I file a complaint against a landscape architect or unlicensed individual?

Yes. Complaints against landscape architects and unlicensed individuals (who may be in violation of BPC 5641) can be submitted to the LATC (click here for a complaint form). Consumers wishing to recover monies as a result of a problem with a landscape architect or landscape designer can seek recourse through the small claims or civil court systems.

Can a landscape contractor (Class C-27) provide landscape design services?

A landscape contractor may provide design services only if he/she performs or supervises the installation/construction.

Can an architect provide "landscape architectural" services?

Since the practice of architecture, as defined under BPC 5500.1, includes the planning of "sites," architects are exempt from the Landscape Architects Practice Act and therefore may prepare, stamp, and sign landscape plans/drawings.

Do local agencies (i.e., planning and building departments) verify the licenses of landscape architects?

There is no state requirement for local agencies to verify the licenses of landscape architects.

Changes to the LARE application/registration and administrative processes occur regularly; therefore, it is important that candidates carefully read and understand all examination information found on this Web site.

How can I obtain a license?

There are more ways to qualify for licensure in California than in most other licensing states or jurisdictions. The traditional method to become a licensed landscape architect in California is to, 1) obtain an accredited degree in landscape architecture, 2) work directly for a licensed landscape architect for at least 2 years, 3) complete the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE), and 4) complete the California Specific Examination.

In California, a candidate must have a minimum of six years combined qualifying education and training/experience to be eligible to take the LARE. Credit for education and training/experience can be accrued as outlined in the laws governing landscape architecture, specifically CCR 2620 - Education and Training Credits. There are many ways a candidate may obtain a landscape architecture license; it is always advisable for candidates to review the laws carefully, then contact the LATC for specific questions or information.

Candidates should be aware that, although California accepts the education and training/experience as outlined in law, the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) and other state licensing boards may not recognize the same education and training/experience. This can make obtaining CLARB Certification and reciprocal licensure difficult for those who deviate from the traditional method of acquiring education and training/experience for licensure.

Does the LATC administer all sections of the LARE?

No. The LATC administers Sections C and E (graphic performance sections) in June and December, while CLARB administers Sections A, B, and D (multiple-choice sections) via a computer-based methodology. Visit www.clarb.org for the multiple-choice section examination dates.

I want to begin the examination process by taking sections A, B, and D. Can I just register on-line with CLARB?

First-time candidates must first apply to the LATC and receive a Notice of Eligibility prior to registering with CLARB.

Candidates who have previously been approved to take the LARE in California are considered approved for purposes of registering with CLARB.

Can I apply for all sections of the LARE (A through E) with the LATC?

No. After receiving a Notice of Eligibility from the LATC, candidates must apply to the LATC for Sections C and E and register on-line with CLARB at www.clarb.org for sections A, B, and D.

Can I apply to take the LARE before I complete all training and education requirements?

Current regulations do not allow early testing. In order to take the LARE in California, candidates must meet all of the following examination eligibility requirements:

I have a degree in a related field and 10 years of experience as a contractor. Can I take the LARE?

No. Current California regulations require, applicants to have a degree or extension certificate in landscape architecture in combination with qualifying training/experience credit.

I have a unique situation that is not addressed in your examination eligibility requirements. Can I appeal for an exception to be qualified to take the LARE?

No. Candidates must meet all educational and training/experience requirements, as outlined under the laws governing landscape architecture.

Does the LATC require a CLARB Council Record for licensure or for taking the LARE?

No. A Council Record is not required in California.

Where is the LARE administered?

Sections C and E are administered by the LATC in northern and southern California every June and December. However, due to availability of conference centers, the LATC may limit examination sites. To view the examination sites for Sections C and E, click here, or you may contact the LATC for additional information.

CLARB administers Sections A, B, and D via a computer-based testing at various testing centers throughout the U.S. For more information, visit CLARB's Web site at www.clarb.org.

I registered on-line with CLARB to take Sections A, B, and D of the LARE. Can you verify that I am scheduled?

LATC staff cannot verify registration for Sections A, B, and D. Candidates should contact CLARB at (571) 432-0332.

How soon will I receive my LARE results?

Due to confidentiality laws, LATC staff cannot release score information over the telephone. Examination results are mailed to the LATC by CLARB. Results from the June graphic performance sections of the examination are received in mid-September and December results are received in mid-February. The LATC receives results from the multiple-choice sections of the examination appproximately four to five weeks after the examination date. Once the LATC processes examination results, the scores are immediately mailed to candidates.

I took the LARE last year. Will the LATC automatically send me an Application for Re-Examination for the next administration?

LATC staff will mail applications to candidates only upon request. Applications are also available under Candidate Information. However, the Application for Re-Examination for Sections C and/or E will be included with the issuance of a candidate's examination results if he/she is still required to pass those examination sections.

Does the LATC offer reasonable accomodations for candidates with disabilities?

Yes. The LATC honors requests for reasonable accomodations for all Sections of the LARE in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any candidate who requires special accommodations must submit a request to the LATC along with their eligibility/examination application. Requests are considered on a case by case basis.

Does the LATC offer study materials or any type of examination preparation for the LARE?

No. Examination preparatory courses are not available through the LATC; however, study materials may be purchased from CLARB. Candidates may also contact the California Council of the American Society of Landscape Architects, California chapters of the ASLA, and landscape architecture programs under the Links page for possible preparatory courses.

I failed Sections C and E of the LARE. Can I appeal my examination results?

There is no appeal process for failed sections of the LARE; however, the LATC (through CLARB) does offer review sessions for Sections C and E. For more information regarding the Red-Line and Standard Review sessions, click here, or you may contact the LATC for additional information.

I recently moved to California, but hold a landscape architect license in another state. How can I become licensed in California?

If you are currently licensed in another state in good standing and have taken and passed either the UNE or the LARE, you can apply for reciprocity in California.

How do I appeal the denial of a license?

Under the provision of BPC 485(b), a licensure applicant has the right to a hearing for appeal of the denial of their application. The request for hearing must be submitted in writing to the LATC within 60 days after service of the denial notice, otherwise the applicant's right to a hearing is deemed waived.

Why has the format of the California Supplemental Examination (CSE) changed?

The format of the CSE has changed due to a couple of important reasons.

The Department of Consumer Affairs' (DCA) policy requires licensing examinations undergo a review every three to seven years for the purpose of developing valid, secure and legally defensible examinations. This policy is mandated by Government Code Section 12944, requiring the establishment of job-related licensing examinations. The last review of the landscape architecture profession and examination occurred in 2006. This review included a psychometric evaluation that was performed by technical experts under the auspices of a psychometrician and determined that it was time to validate the take-home CSE created in 2000. An occupational analysis of the landscape architecture profession in California reiterated the need to test for knowledges specific to tasks within the practice. Technical experts conducting this review determined that is was essential for the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of California to revise the CSE from a take home essay format to a valid, secure and legally defensible multiple-choice format.

While the LATC agrees the change in format of the new CSE versus the old CSE is significant, it is important for the continued validity, security and integrity of the CSE. All efforts have been made to make the process of gaining licensure in California as trouble-free as possible while maintaining the validity, security and integrity of the CSE and insuring landscape architects in California have the ability to practice in a way that will ensure the health, safety and welfare of California citizens.

What is the examination format?

The CSE is a 100 question multiple-choice examination.

Where can I take the CSE?

The CSE is administered by the LATC as a computer based multiple-choice examination under contract with Psychological Services, LLC (PSI) at 13 testing centers throughout California and 10 testing centers nationwide. California testing locations will be: Anaheim, Atascadero, Bakersfield, Carson (Los Angeles Area), El Monte (Los Angeles Area), Fresno, Hayward (Bay Area), Redding, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, Santa Clara (Bay Area) and Santa Rosa. Nationwide testing locations will be: Cranberry Township, PA, Boston, MA, Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, Southfield, MI, Des Moines, IA, Albuquerque, NM, Houston, TX, Las Vegas, NV and Portland, OR.

Where can I get further details on the CSE?

Candidates may access detailed information on procedures and knowledges required for taking the examination from the LATC web site at www.latc.ca.gov. Candidates without Internet access can request a copy of the information from the LATC office by contacting the LATC.

How will I be notified of my eligibility to take the CSE?

Once all five sections of the LARE are passed, candidates will receive an eligibility notification to take the CSE along with an application to register and pay for the examination.

Are there study materials provided to prepare for the CSE?

The LATC Web site contains information on preparing for the CSE, as well as specific knowledges that will be tested. The Web site also contains procedures for taking the examination.

How do I find out about special accommodations for the CSE?

A request for reasonable accommodations can be made directly to the LATC by filling out a Reasonable Accommodation Request form. Please refer to the form for specific details on the request.

Can I take the exam at any time?

Eligible candidates may take the CSE as soon as their application and payment is processed.

How many questions do I have to answer correctly to pass the CSE?

Pass rates will vary. A group of technical experts will meet with a psychometrician annually to statistically assess and set pass rates to a point determined not to affect the health, safety and welfare of California citizens.

If I don�t pass the CSE, is there a waiting period before I can take it again?

Yes. To ensure the security of the CSE, a wait period of three months from examination date is required.

Is there a limit to the number of times I can take the CSE?

There is no limit to the number of times a candidate can take the CSE. Candidates are only limited by the waiting period between examinations.

I have already taken and passed the previous California Section administered by CLARB, do I have to take the CSE?

No. The exception to this is if a licensee lets their license lapse for more than three years; in which case the licensee is required to take and pass the CSE.

Can I appeal my examination scores?

No. There is no provision for an appeal of a candidate�s examination score. However, the CSE is evaluated on an annual basis for statistical irregularities.

I previously registered for the CSE and paid $35. Do I have to pay an additional amount?

Previously, candidates were allowed to register for the CSE anytime upon gaining eligibility for the LARE. The LATC has revised its policy and now accepts registration and payment for the CSE only after all five sections of the LARE are passed. Those candidates that paid their CSE fee in advance and become eligible to take the CSE will have until September 15, 2008 to apply their prepaid CSE fee as full payment for the examination. After September 15, 2008 candidates who prepaid will receive a $35 credit towards their registration and CSE fee.

I want to gain licensure in California through reciprocity. What are the options for gaining licensure in California?

The candidate must submit a reciprocity application. Once determined eligible, the candidate will take the CSE administered by the Landscape Architects Technical Committee (LATC) as a computer based multiple-choice examination under contract with Psychological Services, LLC (PSI). There are 13 testing centers throughout California and 10 testing centers nationwide.

Licensee Information

What are the requirements for a landscape architect stamp?

The stamp, authorized by BPC 5659 and 5673, may be purchased from any convenient source and shall be of the design illustrated under California Code of Regulations, Title 16, Division 26, Section 2606.

Can a landscape contractor (Class C-27) provide design services?

A landscape contractor may only provide design services if he/she performs or supervises the installation/construction.

Can an architect provide "landscape architectural" services?

Is a landscape architect required to notify the LATC when establishing a corporation?

No. The LATC issues licenses to individuals, not to businesses or corporations. However, a landscape architect must contact the Secretary of State's Office at (916) 657-5448 and file the required paperwork in order to establish a corporation.