Extension BluePrint

We are trying to extend our house to create a bedroom on first floor and extend the kitchen. I know we have to go for Variance because it will be exceeding the requirement from township. Bedroom is for parents as they are old and cannot climb upstairs and don't have space to put the chairlift.
Question is I have an architect who is working on license but is ready to draw everything for me including the CDs and As-is and To-be. Is there any regulations that the blueprints or documents needs an licensed architect signed since we are living in the house after extension.
Architect will be charging way more then what the architect without state license is going to charge me. This is in NJ.