Architecture and Interior Design – Hot Topics/Important Information

Board of Architecture and Interior Design Modifies Signature Requirements

The Board of Architecture and Interior Design has modified the signature requirements for electronically transmitted documents to allow for a scanned image of an original signature. Effective immediately, Architects may now use a scanned image of an original signature when electronically transmitting plans, specifications, reports or other documents to governmental agencies in lieu of a digital signature or electronic signature for the next 90 days. The relief from Rule 61G1ER20-11 is effective September 16, 2020, through December 15, 2020.

Board of Architecture and Interior Design Expands Online Continuing Education

The Board of Architecture and Interior Design is allowing all continuing education courses previously approved for classroom (in-person) credit to be taught via interactive distance learning methods for the next 90 days.  Continuing education course providers will not be required to submit separate course applications for distance learning during this time.  The relief from Rules 61G1ER20-8 and 61G1ER20-9 is effective July 14, 2020, and valid for the next 90 days.

Architect Business License

On June 30, 2020, Governor Ron DeSantis signed “The Occupational Freedom and Opportunity Act” (HB 1193) which eliminates unnecessary regulations and reduces barriers to entry for certain professions. Effective July 1, 2020, the Certificate of Authorization for Architecture Businesses will be eliminated. The business information from the Certificate of Authorization will be retained and linked to the qualifying Registered Architect’s license.

Interior Design License

On June 30, 2020, Governor Ron DeSantis signed “The Occupational Freedom and Opportunity Act” (HB 1193) which eliminates unnecessary regulations and reduces barriers to entry for certain professions. Effective July 1, 2020, the mandatory licensure requirement for Interior Designers and the Certificate of Authorization for Interior Design Businesses will be eliminated, effective July 1, 2020.

Registration as an interior designer is optional for individuals who wish to obtain a seal from the department. Registration applicants will be required to show proof of having passed the qualification examination prescribed by the Council for Interior Design Qualification or an equivalent exam. For individuals currently holding interior design licenses, the department will automatically convert their licenses to Certificates of Registration.

Paperless Licensing, effective 11/07/2018

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation is excited to announce an advancement in how we license architects and interior designers in the State of Florida.
The Department has implemented an innovative way to expedite the licensing process for architects and interior designers. The Department will no longer be mailing licenses upon issuance, as licensees can now print their licenses by logging into their secure online account with the Department. This will allow new licensees to enter the work force at least 7 to 10 business days early, whereas, in the past, they would have to wait for the license to arrive in the mail. In addition to new licenses, this process will allow licensees to renew online and print the license at their convenience, as well as print duplicate licenses as needed without paying a fee.

ARE 4.0 Retirement – Updated May 8, 2018

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