What is the difference between an architect and a drafter?
An architect is an individual who is licensed by the state to practice architecture. To become licensed, an architect must satisfy what I call the “Three Es”: Education (the equivalent of a five-year professional degree from an accredited architectural school); Experience (a minimum internship of three years working under another licensed architect); and Exam (pass the Architect Registration Exam). An architect must also pay the associated licensing fees of the state in which he or she practices, and must maintain moral character and minimum amounts of continuing education. Finally, an architect must practice according to a code of ethics regulating competence, conflicts of interest, disclosure, and professional conduct. A drafter is not so licensed, and may or may not have the experience required to design buildings to the standard expected of architects.
