Founded in 1889, the Ontario Association of Architects is a self-regulating organization governed by the Architects Act, which is a statute of the Government of Ontario. The Association is dedicated to promoting and increasing the knowledge, skill and proficiency of its members, and administering the Architects Act, to serve and protect the public interest.
Ontario architects are highly trained professionals bound by regulations under the Architects Act. To be licensed by the Association, an individual must meet the education requirement, gain practical experience, pass extensive examinations, and complete the OAA Admission Course. Following licensure, they must remain active participants in the OAA Continuing Education Program.
Membership
At the end of December 2022, the OAA included 4,735 Architects, 37 Non-Practising Architects, 1,949 Intern Architects, 400 Life Members, 251 Retired Members, 637 Student Associates, and 37 Honorary Members. There are 1,982 architectural practices in Ontario.