ARCON registration requirements

Blog post description.

Architect Elisha Okunwaye

7/1/20262 min read

ARCON (Architects Registration Council of Nigeria) is the statutory body that regulates the training and practice of architecture in Nigeria. It registers individuals and firms, sets educational standards, conducts examinations, and issues practice licenses. Only fully registered and financially current architects can legally sign building plans, use the title "Architect," and practice without restrictions.

### Pathway to Full Registration (2026)

The process typically follows these stages:

1. Student Registration — For students in ARCON/NUC-accredited architecture programs.

- Form cost: ~₦1,000.

- No practice rights.

2. Provisional I — After completing a Bachelor's degree (B.Arch or equivalent) from an accredited university.

- Requirements: Degree certificate (no statement of result), NYSC discharge certificate.

- Form cost: ~₦4,000.

- Limited practice (e.g., cannot take responsibility for buildings above 2 floors).

3. Provisional II — After completing a Master's degree (M.Arch or equivalent).

- Requirements: Both degrees, NYSC, etc.

- Form cost: ~₦5,000.

- Still limited practice rights.

4. Professional Practice Competence Examination (PPCE) — Mandatory after at least 2 years of pupilage (practical training) under a fully registered architect (post-Master's).

- Covers contract administration, ethics, building laws, project management, etc.

- Held periodically (e.g., April, other diets announced on the ARCON site).

- Pass lists and results are published on the official website.

5. Full Registration — After passing PPCE.

- Form cost: ~₦10,000.

- Grants full practice rights.

6. Induction — Attend an induction program post-PPCE.

7. Annual Practice License Renewal — Required every year via the ARCON portal. You must clear all fees to remain financially current and legally able to practice.

### Key Requirements for Full Registration

- Academic Qualifications: Bachelor's + Master's in Architecture from ARCON-accredited institutions (check accreditation on the ARCON website). Foreign degrees require transcript verification and authorization. Only original certificates accepted (no statements of result).

- Minimum O'Level Credits: Mathematics, Physics, English, plus two others (preferably Chemistry, Economics, Geography, Technical Drawing).

- Pupilage/Experience: Minimum 2 years post-Master's under a registered architect.

- NYSC Discharge Certificate.

- Character References: Letter from employer, registered architect, clergy, or civil servant (director level or above).

- Sponsors & Referees: Two sponsors (different from referees) who are financially current ARCON members with at least 5 years post-registration. Submit their current practice licenses.

- Other Documents: Passport photos, proof of name consistency (sworn affidavit if needed), business address (current employment), etc.

- Nigerian Citizenship: Required for full practice rights (foreigners generally cannot register for independent practice).

### Firm Registration

Architectural firms must register separately.

- Only fully registered architects can apply.

- Majority ownership/control (at least 60%) by Nigerian registered architects.

- Form cost: ~₦20,000.

### How to Apply

- Visit the ARCON Portal: [portal.arconigeria.gov.ng](https://portal.arconigeria.gov.ng/) for registrations, renewals, and forms.

- Payments via Remita (TSA for Federal Government of Nigeria → ARCON).

- Physical forms may still be picked up/submitted at ARCON offices (Abuja head office, Lagos, etc.).

- For account recovery: Use the "Reclaim My Account" option on the portal.

### Important Notes

- ARCON vs. NIA: ARCON is the regulatory/licensing body. The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) is the professional association. Full ARCON registration often requires or aligns with NIA membership.

- Legal Implications: Practicing without a valid license or signing plans without full registration violates the ARCON Act and can lead to sanctions.

- Updates: Check the official site (arconigeria.gov.ng) for current fees, exam dates, accreditation lists, and notices (e.g., ARP – ARCON Regulatory Programme).

For the latest details or specific guidance, visit the ARCON website or contact their offices in Abuja (headquarters) or Lagos. Requirements can be updated, so always verify directly.