LARE Practice Test

The LARE is a four-part, computer based, multiple choice examination. The four sections must be passed to be eligible for licensure:

• Section 1: Project and Practice Management
• Section 2: Inventory and Analysis
• Section 3: Design
• Section 4: Construction Documentation and Administration

The process involves two main steps:

• Apply for Eligibility: Contact your state or provincial licensing board to submit an application, including your education transcripts and work experience records. Once approved, the board will grant you eligibility to test.
• Register and Schedule: After receiving your eligibility, you register for specific exam sections and pay the fees through your CLARB Council Record account. You then schedule your exam appointment at a Pearson VUE test center.

Eligibility is determined by the specific registration board in the state or province where you seek licensure. Generally, you need a combination of education (typically an accredited degree in landscape architecture) and work experience (typically 2-4 years under a licensed supervisor). You must apply for eligibility through your local board, not directly through CLARB.

The LARE is a computer-based test (CBT) administered at Pearson VUE testing centers. Sections 1 and 2 are multiple-choice, while Sections 3 and 4 are graphical-based, requiring you to use digital drawing tools within the testing software to create plans, sections, and grading designs.

Preparation is key. A strong study plan includes:

• CLARB Resources: Review the official LARE Guidelines and exam outlines provided by CLARB for each section.
• Study Materials: Use Prephow LARE textbooks, reference manuals, and third-party study guides.
• Practice Problems: Work through sample questions and practice the graphical sections under timed conditions.
• Study Groups: Collaborate with other candidates to discuss concepts and review each other's work.

Final results are typically released 4-6 weeks after the exam window closes, following CLARB's data validation process. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the section during the next available testing period, though you must pay the full testing fee again. Some states limit how many years you have to complete all sections once you start, with timeframes varying by jurisdiction.

A CLARB Council Record is an official, verified portfolio of your education, experience, and exam history. While not mandatory to test (your state board grants eligibility), it is highly recommended. It streamlines the licensure process, especially if you plan to become licensed in multiple states through reciprocity, as it serves as a verified credential.