All credit earned for IDP must be approved by your supervisor and mentor before you can submit it to NCARB. Therefore, before you even begin to earn credit for the IDP, you must find an IDP mentor. For information on this requirement, see the "Select a Mentor" section of the Getting Started page on NCARB's Web site. You can also learn more about becoming an IDP Mentor.

What is an IDP Mentor?

Your IDP Mentor is a licensed architect, who preferably works outside of the firm in which you intern. Your mentor is responsible for signing off on your 123 forms (the forms on which you record your credit) before you submit them to NCARB. Your mentor should also provide you guidance in your internship and elsewhere in your professional life. Therefore, mentors must be familiar with your state board's licensing requirements and the NCARB IDP Guidelines. Interns should meet with their mentors at least quarterly. Your mentor does not need to be located near you. You can engage in mentoring via the internet or phone.

The mentoring relationship is only as strong as you make it. Useful tools and educational resources are available for IDP mentors on our "Working with Interns" page. We especially recommend the Mentoring Essentials Workbook for an overview of the IDP mentoring relationship.

Find an IDP Mentor

Your local AIA chapter or IDP Coordinator can assist you in locating a mentor. Just call in and ask for help. You can also find mentoring programs in your area. Connect with AIA members through online social networking.