Getting Licensed

Licensure is required to practice landscape architecture in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. It ensures that landscape architects meet rigorous professional standards that protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare.

StateAdvocacyResources_Main
What is Licensure?

What is Licensure?

Licensure is the legal authorization to practice landscape architecture in a given state or jurisdiction. State licensing boards set and enforce the education, experience, and examination requirements that candidates must meet to earn a license.

ASLA supports this system through education, advocacy, and resources—but does not issue licenses or regulate practice.

Learn about licensure requirements and find your state licensing board.
Why Licensure Matters

Why Licensure Matters

Licensed landscape architects design, plan, and manage outdoor spaces that directly affect the public's health, safety, and welfare. Licensure ensures that practitioners have the knowledge and judgment to practice competently and ethically—and that they are accountable to the public through state regulation.

Strong licensure laws help prevent harm, support resilient and sustainable communities, and uphold the credibility of the profession.

Read more about why licensure is important.

The Path to Licensure

While specific requirements vary by jurisdiction, becoming a licensed landscape architect generally involves four steps.

1. Education

Complete an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture, typically with a STEM‑focused curriculum that includes natural and physical sciences, engineering and environmental studies, design principles, and planning.

2. Experience

Gain supervised professional experience under a licensed landscape architect or as specified by your jurisdiction. Experience requirements vary by state.

3. Examination (L.A.R.E.)

Pass the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (L.A.R.E.), administered by CLARB. The exam tests the knowledge and skills needed to practice safely and effectively.

4. State Licensure

Apply for licensure through your state licensing board. The board will verify that you have met the education, experience, and examination requirements.

Discover More at CLARB.ORG

Professional Landscape Architect (PLA)

Using the post-nominal letters "PLA" indicates to clients, employers, and colleagues that an individual has met the professional standards required to be licensed and possesses a valid active state license, while also helping to provide consistent recognition and public awareness for the landscape architecture profession nationwide.

Learn more about ASLA's Public Policy on Post-Nominal Letters

How ASLA Supports Your Licensure Journey

ASLA offers programs and resources to help you prepare for licensure and maintain it throughout your career.

LARE Prep Resources – Courses, study materials, and sessions designed to help you prepare for the L.A.R.E.

Many states require Professional Landscape Architects to complete continuing education to maintain a license. ASLA and its partners provide a wide range of opportunities:

  • Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System (LA CES)
  • ASLA Online Learning
  • ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture