This exam blueprint provides an outline of the content for the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (L.A.R.E.). Use it to understand what to study for as you prepare to take the exam.
L.A.R.E. sections
The L.A.R.E. includes four sections, which can be taken in any order. You may take more than one section during the examination period.
Inventory, Analysis, and Project Management
90 scored items
- Project Management (7%)
- Inventory and Data Collection (21%)
- Stakeholder Engagement Process (14%)
- Physical Analysis (39%)
- Contextual Analysis (19%)
Planning and Design
85 scored items
- Stewardship and Design Principles (17%)
- Master Planning (33%)
- Schematic Design (28%)
- Design Development (22%)
Construction Documentation and Administration
90 scored items
- Construction Plans and Details (50%)
- Construction Specifications and Bidding (20%)
- Construction Administration (30%)
Grading, Drainage, and Stormwater Management
70 scored items
- Stormwater Management (39%)
- Grading and Earthwork (44%)
- Drainage Systems (17%)
Keeping the L.A.R.E. relevant
CLARB regularly conducts a scientific study of the profession known as a job task analysis (JTA). This systematic procedure analyzes the tasks performed by professional landscape architects, as well as the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform those tasks. The JTA ensures that the content of the L.A.R.E remains legally defensible and relevant, and the results are also used to defend the legal scope of landscape architectural practice.
The results of the study determine the tasks that are performed most often, are most important, and subsequently instill the knowledge required at the initial point of licensure. Those results form the basis of the L.A.R.E. The findings from the most recent JTA report resulted in changes to the content and structure of the L.A.R.E., effective with the December 2023 administration.
Be sure to check out the L.A.R.E. Orientation Guide for additional helpful exam information.
Previous blueprints
All candidates are required to complete the four-section L.A.R.E. as part of their licensure requirements. If you completed any exam sections prior to December 2023, you'll want to understand how your previous sections translate to today's blueprint.
When did you complete your first section?
If you completed your first exam section in December 2023 or after, you will complete the four sections described above in the current blueprint.