In order to become a licensed interior designer, you must pass the CIDQ exam, which is administered by the National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). Depending on the state, you may also be required to complete an NCIDQ application through the state, if you are in Texas. You must read all state laws and apply for licensure. You can also apply for a license through the IIDA or ASID.
To work in commercial spaces, you must have a license. You cannot practice alone unless you have a license or are accompanied by a licensed professional. In the U.S., no state requires a license, though the laws can vary greatly. In Puerto Rico, the requirement is more stringent and may not be as easy to obtain. While you may not need a license in order to work for a company or an individual, you need a license if you are working in a commercial space.
In addition to a license, you will need to register your business name and entity. You can register your interior design business online or with your state’s small business division. In addition, you will also need to register with the Internal Revenue Service and apply for an employer identification number (EIN). All of these registrations can take minutes and can be approved right away. You may want to consider hiring a business lawyer if you don’t have one yet.
Depending on the state, you may need to pass a certification test or take a test to become a licensed interior designer. You may be able to cut down the time required to obtain a license by getting professional certification through a trade association or professional organization. Many design professionals choose to pursue voluntary certification as a way to distinguish themselves from the pack. If you’re interested in becoming a licensed interior designer, Qpractice can help you navigate the interior design licensing process and pass the exam.
In addition to passing an NCIDQ exam, interior designers must register with their state to perform certain actions. Be sure to research the legal requirements in your state before taking the exam. During the course of the program, you’ll need to take the NCIDQ licensing exam. The NCIDQ exam has three parts. You must score 500 or higher on each of them. If you don’t pass one of these parts, you’ll likely fail the exam.
While it’s not necessary to take a degree in interior design, an associate’s degree is recommended. After you graduate, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue a bachelor’s degree, which is usually the prerequisite for a license in interior design. It’s also helpful to have a good portfolio. It demonstrates the designer’s eye for aesthetics and function and reveals the designer’s creative process.
