Which of the following describes the typical purpose of a certificate of authorization (COA) in state regulation?

• A. To authorize a corporation to practice architecture
• B. To authorize individual professionals to practice
• C. To grant a permit for a building project
• D. To certify insurance coverage

Answer: (A)

In state regulation, a certificate of authorization is used to allow a corporation or firm to practice architecture within that state. It certifies that the business entity has a licensed architect or responsible professional in charge and meets the regulatory requirements to provide architectural services. This is about the entity’s permission to offer professional services, not about granting licenses to individual people, issuing building permits, or certifying insurance coverage.