RIAI CPD requirements for Registered Architects
At least 40 CPD points in each CPD cycle.
At least 20 of the 40 points must be Structured CPD.
1 December to 30 November.
1 CPD point equals one hour of learning unless RIAI specifies otherwise.
Registered Architects must record CPD in MyRIAI CPD unless an exceptional hardcopy dispensation is granted.
Each cycle is audited and a proportion of records are selected for detailed review.
Who must meet the RIAI Registered Architects' CPD Policy?
The RIAI policy applies to Registered Architects in the State. The policy is tied to continuing registration and implements the statutory CPD system under the Building Control Act framework.
The policy identifies specific exceptions and adjustments. Architects registered on a temporary and occasional basis under Part 7 are subject instead to the CPD requirements of their home state. First-time registration, readmission, specified leave and exceptional circumstances can also affect the requirement.
Architectural Technologist members have CPD arrangements too, but this guide deliberately does not present the Registered Architects' statutory requirements as if they applied identically to every architectural professional.
How many CPD points does a Registered Architect need?
Registered Architects must accumulate at least 40 CPD points during each cycle, with at least 20 Structured CPD points. The cycle runs from 1 December to 30 November.
RIAI states that one CPD point is normally equivalent to one hour of learning. Up to 20 excess points from one cycle may be carried into the next cycle.
The policy also says not more than 50% of CPD activity in a year should normally be spent on one topic or one activity, with an exception for a formal educational programme or work towards a particular qualification/accreditation.
Where a Registered Architect provides services based on specified RIAI Accreditations, the policy sets accreditation-specific CPD: Conservation 8 hours, Environmental 8 hours and PSDP 4 hours.
What counts as CPD for a Registered Architect?
RIAI divides CPD into Structured and Unstructured CPD. Structured CPD is a learning activity for which learning outcomes are identified in advance.
RIAI's policy expressly says Structured CPD does not have to be provided, approved or accredited by RIAI.
How do Registered Architects record CPD?
Registered Architects must use MyRIAI CPD to record their activity unless the Registrar has granted a dispensation for a hardcopy record in exceptional circumstances.
RIAI says evidence does not normally have to be uploaded for every activity. Supporting evidence is submitted if the Registered Architect is selected for audit.
Each cycle is audited after the 30 November deadline. A proportion of records are selected for detailed audit, and selected architects are asked to provide supporting evidence in the required format.
Does architect CPD have to be RIAI-accredited?
No. The RIAI Registered Architects' CPD Policy states that Structured CPD does not have to be provided, approved or accredited by the RIAI.
The key issue is whether the learning qualifies under the policy, is relevant to professional practice and can be appropriately recorded/evidenced. CPD completed for another professional or registration body can also count where it relates to the RIAI Standard.
A CPD Ireland accreditation provides independent review against the CPD Ireland Accreditation Standard. It does not replace the architect's responsibility to classify and record the activity correctly under the RIAI policy.
Using CPD Ireland MyCPD alongside MyRIAI CPD
CPD Ireland MyCPD can provide a supplementary private record of CPD Ireland Verified certificates and self-recorded learning.
CPD Ireland MyCPD is separate from MyRIAI CPD. It does not submit the architect's statutory CPD record to the RIAI, determine Structured/Unstructured classification or satisfy the RIAI audit process.
Registered Architect CPD questions
Official sources
Requirements in this guide were checked against the RIAI's current CPD area and Registered Architects' CPD Policy. Always consult RIAI directly for the definitive current policy and any reduction, exemption or audit process that applies to you.