The Growing Need for Architects in Florida
With so many sports facilities and stadiums, universities, resorts, and residential properties, not to mention the many other kinds of structures necessary in the state, Florida architects are a busy crowd. The state has almost 3,700 licensed professionals, but experts indicate that this career is one positioned for growth in the coming years. This means that a Florida architect embossing seal is something that will also be in higher demand as well.
In fact, with laws changed as recently in 2013, even long-time architects may realize that they need a new Florida architect embossing seal as well. The use of a Florida architect embossing seal is essential for any specifications, plans, or even reports prepared for submission to the public record. Also, in the past rubber stamp seals were acceptable, but under the new guidelines the only Florida architect embossing seal that is acceptable is one that is embossed or raised.
While electronic signatures are also acceptable, it requires a very specific type of software (called PEDDS -Professional’s Electronic Data Delivery System), which is available exclusively from the state. This new form of sealing came into law in early 2014.
What Is Required for a Florida State Architect Seal?
The design of the Florida architect embossing seal is very specific as well, beginning with the mandatory 2" diameter size of the circular seal. There are two types of Florida architect embossing seal available for use: the individual architect or the "dual" style that indicates a licensed architect has worked with a licensed interior designer on a project.
The individual Florida architect embossing seal will have to feature the name of the single architect and their registration number. The information depicted on the seal is divided
between inner and outer circles on the seal. On the outer circle will appear "State of Florida" along the top and "Registered Architect" along the bottom. The name of the architect is placed in the center and then the license number, prefaced with AR, appears beneath that. No other text should appear.The dual Florida architect embossing seal features the same inner and outer circles. The outer circle will feature "LIC Interior Designer" along with the license number along the top, and "Registered Architect" along with the license number along the bottom. The center features the name of the interior designer in the center along with the text "State of Florida".
Finding a reputable source for official seals guarantees the best results and helps any licensed professional to remain within the guidelines for these mandatory seals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Florida architect embossing seal requirements?
Florida architect embossing seal requirements generally include a 2-inch circular seal with the architect’s name and Florida license number. The outer ring must identify “State of Florida” and “Registered Architect,” and the seal should contain only the information allowed by Florida law.
When is a Florida architect embossing seal required?
A Florida architect embossing seal is typically required on plans, specifications, reports, and other documents prepared for public record or official submission. If you are a licensed architect working on documents that must be formally certified, sealing them correctly is essential for compliance.
How does a difference between an embossing seal and an inked seal in Florida? work?
An embossing seal creates a raised impression on the document, while an inked seal leaves a visible stamped mark. The blog explains that Florida has moved away from accepting traditional rubber stamp seals in favor of the raised embossed format for many official uses.
Can Florida architects use electronic seals instead of a physical embossing seal?
Yes, electronic signatures and seals may be acceptable in Florida, but they must be used through the required PEDDS software system. This is a state-specific electronic data delivery method, so architects should confirm they are using the approved platform before relying on a digital seal.
Which details are required on a Florida architect seal??
For an individual architect seal, the required information includes the architect’s name, license number prefaced with “AR,” and the words “State of Florida” and “Registered Architect.” No extra text should appear on the seal, since any additional wording could put compliance at risk.
What is a dual Florida architect seal, and when is it used?
A dual Florida architect seal is used when a licensed architect has worked with a licensed interior designer on a project. This version includes both professionals’ names and license numbers in the proper layout, making it important for projects that involve both disciplines and require compliant sealing.
