AIA-International associate member (individual without US architecture license who has an architecture license from a non-US licensing authority) AIA-Associate member (individual without architectural license from a US licensing authority who meets other architectural educational or employment requirements set out in the Institute’s Bylaws) AIA-Architect member (individual entitled under law to practice architecture and use the title architect in any state of the US).To report misuse of AIA designations or other trademarks, email the Institute’s legal counsel. Similarly, organizations or companies may not use the AIA’s name, initials, or other trademarks unless the Institute has entered into a written agreement giving permission. Use of an AIA designation by a nonmember is a trademark infringement and is subject to legal action under both state and federal law. Only those individuals who are members in good standing are entitled to use these AIA designations. The Institute’s Bylaws designate a particular suffix that may be used by each membership category except for allied members, who are not permitted to use the AIA’s initials as a suffix to their names. One of the benefits that comes with membership in the Institute is the right to use a suffix to the member’s name that includes the AIA’s initials. This means that no one has the right to use them to describe any other organization, individuals, or activities connected with the architecture profession without the Institute’s permission. The name The American Institute of Architects and the initials (AIA) are registered trademarks.