WHAT IS THE ALABAMA BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS (ABELA)?

ABELA was created to regulate the practice of landscape architecture in the State of Alabama. It consists of three members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Board processes and is the approving body for licensure applications and continuing education units.

Information on ABELA, serving on the Board, Alabama’s licensee directory and more can be found on the ABELA website.

WHAT IS THE COUNCIL OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURAL REGISTRATION BOARDS (CLARB)?

The Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) is a nonprofit organization that prepares, administers and scores the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (L.A.R.E.) which assesses the ability of prospective licensees to protect the public’s health, safety and welfare.

CLARB manages a professional information system called the CLARB Council Record, through which LAs document and verify their education, experience, examination and licensure history. The Record streamlines the initial and reciprocal licensure processes.

Like ASLA, CLARB also works to defend landscape architectural licensure and relies on committees and working groups to fulfill their mission.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE IN ALABAMA?

• A total six (6) years of combined education and experience must be completed before an applicant may apply for examination. Each year of study in an approved college or school of landscape architecture will be accepted as one year of such combined education and experience for a maximum of five years. Full qualifications can be found here.

• Successful completion of the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (L.A.R.E.), administered by the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB).

• Completed application for a license to practice landscape architecture, submitted with application fee to the Alabama Board of Examiners of Landscape Architects (ABELA).

• Successful completion of the State Supplemental Examination (administered by ABELA) testing an applicant's knowledge of the Alabama statute as it relates to landscape architecture, the rules and regulations of the Board, and the Board's Code of Conduct for Landscape Architects.

• Note: The right to practice as a Registered Landscape Architect expires December 31 of each calendar year unless renewed. Re-registration is required if a renewal lapses.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO RENEW AN ALABAMA LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT LICENSE?

• The licensee must have completed sixteen (16) hours of continuing education within the previous renewal period. A minimum of eight (8) hours must be related to maintaining or improving the health, safety, and welfare (HSW) of the public.

• Hours earned after October 15th can be applied to the following year so long as CEU’s required for the current year’s application are fulfilled within the calendar year.

• Registrants will be mailed annually, during the month of November, an application for renewal of registration. Renewal form and required fee payable to ABELA must be received or postmarked no later than January 31st to insure timely renewal of the applicant’s license.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE TO TAKE THE L.A.R.E.?

Check out ASLA’s resources here. Additionally, Pass the LARE is a great practice resource developed by an Auburn University alumnus.

WHAT IS THE ALABAMA LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURAL CODE OF CONDUCT?

The Code of Conduct is contained within the handbook issued by the Alabama Board of Examiners of Landscape Architects. A PDF version may be found here. There is also a Code of Professional Ethics for all ASLA members.

WHAT STANDARDS ARE THERE FOR STAMPING PLANS?

The landscape architect’s registration number must appear on the seal and on all works signed by the landscape architect. Full standards, including rules for electronic signatures, can be found here.

HOW CAN I CONNECT WITH OTHER PROFESSIONALS?

The Alabama Chapter of ASLA organizes several social and educational events throughout the year. Be sure to keep your contact information and membership status up to date to receive communications.