A lot of candidates start to panic when they hear about a new Building Code cycle coming out, like the 2025 California Building Code. But here’s the thing: the California Supplemental Exam (CSE) doesn’t test on whatever code is newest. It tests on what’s listed in the official reference list published by the California Architects Board (CAB).
Current status
Right now, that list includes the 2022 California Building Code, the 2017 AIA contracts, and the 2010 Architects Practice Act. That’s exactly what our practice exam questions are based on, the same references the CAB currently lists.
If you look at CAB’s reference page (screenshot shown above), you’ll see that every item is a live link. When you click on those links, they take you straight to the official source documents. For example, the California Building Code still opens to the 2022 edition, which confirms that’s the version being tested.
Some of CAB’s listed sources are even older. The California Coastal Act is shown as (2023), even though there’s a 2025 version available. That means the Board is still using the 2023 version until they officially update the list. The California Clean Air Act is another good example, instead of the full law, CAB links to the “Air Quality and Climate Legislation 2019 Annual Summary.” In other words, the exam references exactly what’s listed, not necessarily the most recent or complete version of every code.
California Architects Board CSE Announcements
When CAB does make changes to its reference list, they announce it clearly. They’ll post updates on the News and Announcements section of their website and send out emails to candidates and licensees. They also share information on their social media channels, like Instagram, so it’s easy to stay informed. For example, when the testing eligibility rules changed recently, CAB announced it on their website, Instagram, and through their testing vendor, PSI. If you’ve already been approved to take the exam, PSI may send you specific instructions or updates directly.
So don’t worry about the 2025 Code just yet. The CSE is still rooted in the 2022 Building Code cycle, and that’s what your study materials should focus on. Put your energy into the sources CAB actually lists. That’s where the exam questions come from, not from future updates that haven’t been adopted yet.
If you’re studying for the exam and notice that CAB has updated its list of references, ask yourself whether it’s really necessary to reschedule your test. The honest answer is: it depends.
Let’s say CAB announces a small change, such as an update to the California Retail Food Code. If your exam is just days away, you could research the extent of the revisions and decide that the changes are minor and that this topic isn’t one of your primary focus areas. In that case, postponing might not be worth it. But if CAB announces a major change, for example, replacing all references to the 2022 CBC with the 2025 CBC around your scheduled exam date, it would be wise to consider rescheduling so you have time to review the new material thoroughly.
And finally, be proactive. Don’t wait for an email or a social media post. CAB strongly encourages candidates to regularly check the official reference material list on their website to make sure you’re always studying the most current and accurate information.