Architects in Mississippi are required to have a seal or a stamp that they use when they are certifying and signing documents pertaining to their business. It is unlawful for the architects in the state to work without one of these seals. In fact, the state doesn't consider the license to be valid unless the architect has sent in the Mississippi architectural embossed seal and had it approved. They need to have their seal in order, and provided to the board, within 60 days of the date that appears on their registration letter. If they don't provide the seal in that period, they can face disciplinary action from the board. In addition to the seal, they can also use a Mississippi architectural embossed stamp.
Mississippi State Seal Specifications and Requirements
The Mississippi architectural embossed seal and stamp needs to conform to certain rules set forth by the board. If the stamp doesn't meet with these rules, then the board will not approve it, and the architect will need to get a new stamp. The current rules for the seal or the Mississippi architectural embossed stamp are as follows.
First, it needs to be circular in shape, and it has to measure 1 -½" in diameter. The Mississippi architectural embossed seal also needs to include all of the following information. It needs to have the term "Registered Architect State of Mississippi" around the outer portion of the seal.
The name of the architect needs to be in the middle of the seal and below that should be the registration number.
New Regulations for Mississippi State Architect Seals
Once the architect has their Mississippi architectural embossed seal or stamp, they will send a copy of it to the board. As mentioned, this needs to be sent to the board within 60 days. Upon receipt and approval of the Mississippi architectural embossed seals and stamps, the architect's license will then be considered valid and he or she will be able to start working in the state.
This is a relatively new rule for the Mississippi architectural embossed seals and stamps. If an architect in the state has already been practicing before the implementation of the regulations, they will be able to continue using their old Mississippi architectural embossed seal. However, any seals changed or upgraded now will need to follow the new rules. As always, it is the architect's responsibility to make sure they follow all of the current rules and keep up with any changes made to them.
Why You Should Keep Up to Date with State Requirements
It is generally a good idea for architects to keep up with what's happening on the Mississippi State Board of Architecture website. It can help to keep them informed of things such as changes to the fee schedule, continuing education requirements and opportunities, registration law, rules and regulations, changes to the Mississippi architectural embossed seal and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Mississippi architectural embossed stamp requirements?
The Mississippi architectural embossed stamp or seal must be circular, measure 1-1/2" in diameter, and include “Registered Architect State of Mississippi” around the outer edge. The architect’s name must appear in the center, with the registration number below it.
How do I use a Mississippi architectural embossed seal correctly?
To use the seal correctly, place it on the document in a clear, legible area and emboss only after verifying the document is ready for certification and signature. Make sure the impression is clean, complete, and matches Mississippi board requirements before submitting it.
How long do I have to submit my Mississippi architectural seal to the board?
Architects must send a copy of their Mississippi architectural embossed seal or stamp to the board within 60 days of the date on their registration letter. Failing to do so may result in disciplinary action and delay license validation.
Can I use my old Mississippi architectural seal or stamp?
Yes, if you were already practicing before the newer regulations were implemented, you may continue using your existing Mississippi architectural embossed seal. However, any new, changed, or upgraded seal must meet the current state specifications.
What happens if my Mississippi architectural embossed stamp does not meet board rules?
If the stamp does not comply with Mississippi board requirements, it will not be approved. You will need to replace it with one that meets the current size, wording, and layout standards before your license is considered valid.
Why is the Mississippi architectural embossed seal important for architects?
The seal is required for architects to certify and sign documents in Mississippi. Without an approved seal, the state does not consider the license valid, and working without one can lead to board disciplinary action.
