When you join AIA, you’re joining our 96,000+ member community—and so much more. AIA is where the largest, most influential network of architecture professionals gathers to celebrate successes, meet shared challenges, and shape the future. That’s the power of belonging here.
AIA is here to support your career, enhance your practice, and advance the architecture profession. As a member, you’re connected to exclusive resources along with opportunities to drive real, transformative change. Together, we’re tackling this generation’s most urgent issues, from climate action to inequities in the built environment. Here’s an overview of some of the most valuable AIA member benefits and perks.
The AIA designation
The AIA designation is recognized by clients, civic leaders, the public, and the AEC industry as an abiding commitment to professional excellence. Using it after your name signals that you follow the highest standards of architectural practice.
Continuing education
Certificate programs, LU ǀ HSW courses, AXP hours, and more—AIA’s best-in-class CE is available through AIAU, your local chapter, AIA events, and an extensive network of AIA-approved CE providers.
Research & reports
AIA’s exclusive industry research, reports, and economic data keeps members in front of change and ground business decisions on a foundation of facts.
AIA awards
AIA’s local and national awards are some of the most prestigious in the industry. Our national program features 30+ awards, including the Architecture Firm Award, the AIA Gold Medal, the COTE Top Ten Awards, and the Whitney M. Young Jr. Award.
Government advocacy
From leadership on national policy priorities to influencing local code standards, AIA advocates on behalf of architects and the profession to legislators at the federal, state, and local levels.
AIA Trust
Designed for and exclusively available to AIA members, the AIA Trust offers comprehensive insurance and benefit programs to help individual architects and firms of any size manage risk and protect their investments.
Discounts
Exclusive savings on products and services, including AIA Contract Documents, MastersSpec®, AIAU, conferences and events, research, reports, and the AIA Store.
More AIA member benefits
AIA connects you like no other organization can. Download the AIA Member Benefits Guide to see the full list of benefits that come with your membership.
Membership Types
Membership in the AIA is an investment in your future that extends your network to fellow professionals at the national, state, and local levels. Determine your eligibility in the appropriate membership category below. Click on the corresponding link to learn more and complete your application through AIA National. Questions? Give us a call (865) 637-5003.
| Membership Type | Description | Learn More |
| Architects | Architect membership is open to architects licensed in the U.S. | CLICK HERE |
| Associates | Associate membership is open to those who have a professional degree in architecture, work under the supervision of an architect, are enrolled in AXP, or are a faculty member in a university architecture | CLICK HERE |
| Associate New Graduates | Associate New Graduate membership is open to first-time AIA members who have recently graduated with a professional degree in architecture within the past 18 months. (Free for new architecture school graduates, for up to 18 months! Terms and conditions apply.) | CLICK HERE |
| International Associates | International Associate membership is open to individuals who have an architecture license or equivalent from a non-US licensing authority regardless of their current location. | CLICK HERE |
