This post is brought to you by Simply Architect.

Are you one of those intern architects putting off getting your architecture license? Here's why you should seriously consider forging ahead and getting that well deserved designation!

1. Claim the title! 

You have spent over 5 years pursuing your education coupled with lots of seminar and CE hours. Why wouldn't you crown it with this achievement? Being a licensed architect means you are a professional designer who is liable to the public with rendered architectural services. Hence the title can't be earned without a license.

2. Earn more money! 

Yes, various sources ( AIA, Glassdoor, etc.) show that architectural graduates with their licenses are paid an average of 15-20% more per year when compared to interns with the same amount of experience. 

3. Advance your career! 

There are only a few positions that you can hold (i.e. designer) or buildings that you can design (i.e. buildings under 3 stories or 600 m2, etc.) when you are not licensed.. Obtaining your license opens up more opportunities for you to advance your career and get involved in more challenging and exciting projects. 

4. Regulations are getting tougher year after year.

Hours of experience are increasing and associations are becoming more demanding of various project types and the cost to obtain a license is increasing as well. Every year brings new, more challenging criteria. 

5. "We shape our buildings; thereafter the shape us" - Winston Churchill. 

Most city departments, nowadays, mandate developers to add a plaque with the Architect of Record so that the name is noted to the public. This is your proud footprint in the society that will remain as long as the building is in service. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience this honor.