South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 11 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION- STATE BOARD OF ARCHITECTURAL EXAMINERS
1. Purpose of the Chapter
The main purpose of this chapter is to regulate the practice of architecture in South Carolina, ensuring that:
Architects are qualified, competent, and licensed.
Public health, safety, and welfare are protected.
Standards of professional conduct are maintained.
In short, it defines who can be an architect and how they must operate.
2. State Board of Architectural Examiners
The chapter establishes the State Board of Architectural Examiners, which is responsible for:
Licensing architects in South Carolina.
Enforcing architectural practice regulations.
Investigating complaints about unlicensed or unethical practice.
Establishing standards for education, experience, and examinations.
The board operates under the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation (LLR).
3. Licensing Requirements
To become a licensed architect in South Carolina, the chapter sets out rules such as:
Education
Completion of a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).
Experience
Completion of the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) or equivalent supervised professional experience.
The board may specify the number of hours or types of experience required in various areas of architectural practice.
Examination
Passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), which tests competency in architecture.
Application and Fees
Submission of an application form with supporting documentation.
Payment of licensing fees as established by the board.
4. Practice Rules
The chapter outlines rules about how architects may practice:
Use of Title: Only licensed architects can use the title “Architect.”
Firm Registration: Architectural firms must register with the board if they offer services in South Carolina.
Seal and Signature: All architectural plans, drawings, and documents must be sealed and signed by a licensed architect.
Continuing Education: Architects may need to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.
5. Ethics and Professional Conduct
The chapter also sets standards for ethical behavior, including:
Avoiding conflicts of interest.
Not misrepresenting qualifications or services.
Maintaining client confidentiality.
Complying with laws, codes, and regulations.
Violation of these ethical rules can lead to disciplinary actions, such as:
Reprimand
Fines
Suspension or revocation of license
6. Disciplinary Actions
The board has the authority to take action against architects who:
Practice without a license.
Commit fraud, deceit, or negligence.
Fail to comply with building codes or safety regulations.
Engage in unethical conduct.
Actions can include fines, license suspension, or permanent revocation.
7. Exemptions
Certain individuals may be exempt from licensure requirements in specific cases, such as:
Architects licensed in other states temporarily working in South Carolina.
Employees of a government agency performing duties as part of their official role.
Non-commercial teaching or research work.
8. Administrative Procedures
The chapter also explains administrative details:
How the board conducts meetings.
Rules for hearings and investigations.
Procedures for appealing decisions.
Record-keeping requirements.
✅ Key Takeaways
Chapter 11 governs the licensing and regulation of architects in South Carolina.
It defines qualifications, experience, exams, ethics, and disciplinary procedures.
The State Board of Architectural Examiners enforces these rules.
The goal is public safety and professional integrity in architecture.
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