How to Become a CID

Design Your Future: Become a Certified Interior Designer!
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WHY SHOULD I BECOME A CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNER (CID)?

  • Legally recognized title: It is the only legally recognized title for interior designers in California.
    Proven qualifications: Only Certified Interior Designers have demonstrated their education and experience and have passed the California specific IDEX® Exam.
  • Code of Ethics and Conduct: Every Certified Interior Designer must sign and abide by the CCIDC Code of Ethics, ensuring professionalism and ethical standards.
  • Commitment to practice: Certification demonstrates a commitment to professional practice and excellence.
  • Risk reduction: Greater knowledge of building codes and regulations reduces legal liability.
  • Client/Employer trust: Increased confidence from clients/employers in your expertise and abilities.

WHAT IS CERTIFICATION FOR INTERIOR DESIGNERS?

  • Certification is a Title Act written into the California Business and Professions Code
  • Certified Interior Designer: It is the only legally recognized and protected title for interior designers in California.
  • Historical Background: In 1990, the California legislature passed Section 5800 of the Business & Professions Code, establishing the title “Certified Interior Designer (CID).”
  • CCIDC’s Role: The California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC) is the authority that certifies interior designers in California.

WHAT IS A CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNER (CID)?

  • A Certified Interior Designer is a competent design professional authorized to prepare and submit non-structural, non-seismic construction documents and specifications to local building departments for plan checks.
  • Certified Interior Designers are required to demonstrate proficiency in the California Building Code, including expertise in space planning, life safety, flammability, and disabled access code compliance.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS TO BECOME A CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNER?
To become a Certified Interior Designer, candidates must meet one of the following education and experience criteria:

  • Option A: 80+ Semester Core Units (120+ Quarter Units) from an accredited design program and 2 years of diversified design experience.
  • Option B: 60–79 Semester Core Units (90+ Quarter Units) from an accredited design program and 3 years of diversified design experience.
  • Option C: 40–59 Semester Core Units (60+ Quarter Units) from an accredited design program and 4 years of diversified design experience.
  • Option D: 8 years of diversified design experience or a combination of education and experience.

Once the qualifications are met, candidates must pass the IDEX® California examination, which assesses knowledge of the California Building Code, laws, and regulations.

WHAT IS AN ACCREDITED INTERIOR DESIGN PROGRAM?

CCIDC accepts programs accredited by any agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. These programs meet the educational standards required for certification.

WHAT IS THE “IDEX® CALIFORNIA” EXAMINATION?

The IDEX® California is a specialized examination that tests candidates on the California Building Code (CBC), Title 24, as well as ethics, business practices, and design standards relevant to California.

WHY IS THE IDEX® CALIFORNIA REQUIRED, AND NOT A NATIONAL EXAMINATION?

National exams do not focus on the California Building Code or Title 24, which are essential for ensuring public safety in California. Certification through IDEX® California aligns with local regulations and ensures proficiency in state-specific codes.

WHAT ARE THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO TAKE THE IDEX® CALIFORNIA EXAMINATION?
Candidates must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Education: A minimum of 2 years in an interior design certificate program or 40 semester units (60 quarter units) in core interior design subjects.
  • Experience: At least 5 years of diversified design experience based on 36 hours per week or 9,000 hours.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE IDEX® CALIFORNIA EXAMINATION?

Click on the “Apply Now” Button, complete the application packet and submit all required documentation.

HOW IS THE IDEX® CALIFORNIA EXAMINATION ADMINISTERED?

  • The IDEX® California exam is an online examination available at proctored testing locations across California and other states, with an option for live remote proctoring at home.
  • The exam is offered twice a year—Spring (May) and Fall (October). Candidates can select their testing location, date, and time during the registration process.

HOW LONG IS THE EXAM?

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 3 hours to complete it. The examination covers the California Building Code, life safety regulations, and more.

WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE IDEX® CALIFORNIA EXAMINATION?
Visit the CCIDC website, where you can find:

  • Official study guides
  • Application details
  • Information about third-party study materials and prep courses

WHO MAY USE THE TITLE “CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNER or CID”?
Only those who have met the education, experience, and examination requirements, and have been certified by CCIDC, may use the title “Certified Interior Designer or CID.” It is an unfair business practice for anyone else to use the title or any title including Certified, Registered or Licensed.

QUALIFICATION INFORMATION AND CRITERIA

To become a Certified Interior Designer (CID), candidates must have a minimum of six years combined accredited interior design education and experience (or) a minimum of 8 years combined interior design education and experience.

All candidates must pass the IDEX California® exam. Designers are examined for competence in Commercial as well as Residential: California Codes and Regulations, design synthesis, schematics, programming, space planning, design development, working drawings, construction documents, furniture and finish specifications, lighting layout and specifications, contract documents, contract administration, business law and ethics.

Qualified Professionals From one of the Following Design Professional are Able to Apply:

Interior Design | Architecture | Building Design

There are Four Paths to Qualification, Candidates must meet one of the following criteria (RIDQC Exam Candidates, please apply under Path 1 or 2):

Q: What is Certification?
A: Certification in California is a Title Act.

  • The Certified Interior Designer Title Act is written into law.
  • California Business and Professions Code 5800 – 5812
  • Certification is not a license or registration (Practice Act).
  • There is not Licensing or Registration for interior Designers in California.
  • The Certified Interior Designer’s Title Act is the only thing recognized by the state.

Q: Who Can Apply for Certification?
A: Qualified Professionals From one of the Following:

  • Interior Design
  • Architecture
  • Building Design

Q: What is an Accredited School or Educational Institution?
A: Requirements must come from an accredited institution approved by US Department of Education; CIDA or FIDER accreditation NOT required.

Q: What is the Definition of Core Units?
A: Total Combined Coursework Units in the Following Categories (Excluding General Education Courses):

Interior Design, Building Design, Interior Decoration, Drafting History Design Architectural History
Architecture, Graphic Design, Construction Documents, Art History Building Codes Green Building Practices
Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD), Business Practices as Related to the Practice of Design

Q: How are Core Units Calculated?
A: Core units are calculated by semester units. Quarter units will be converted into semester units.

Q: I don’t have a degree, will I qualify?
A: Total Core units determine eligibility, completion of a degree not required.

Q: How Much Education do I need?
A: Meet Minimum Qualifications to Take the IDEX California®

  • Minimum of 40 Semester/60 Quarter Core Units from accredited design program
  • Education requirements to complete certification vary.
  • Option for experience-only candidates to apply is available, details to follow.

Q: What is the Definition of Diversified Design Experience?
A: Design Experience Including:

  • Prepare complex nonstructural or non-seismic plans
  • Instruction for the preparation of complex nonstructural or non-seismic plans
    • Complex nonstructural or non-seismic plans:
      • Require the skills of a licensed contractor to implement
      • Includes programming, planning, designing, and documenting construction
      • Installation of nonstructural or non-seismic elements, finishes and furnishings
      • Protect and enhance the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Q: How is Diversified Design Experience Calculated?
A: Based on Full time work 36 hours or more per week, 52 weeks per year.

  • Full-Time Diversified Design Experience Requirements:
    • 1 Year = 1,872 Hours+
    • 2 Years = 3,744 Hours+
    • 3 Years = 5,616 Hours+
    • 4 Years = 7,488 Hours+
    • 5 Years = 9,360 Hours+
    • 8 Years = 14,976 Hours+

Q: How is Proof of Diversified Design Experience Submitted?
A: Submit Proof of Diversified Design Experience in Two Ways:

  1. IF YOU ARE SELF-EMPLOYED – Complete the Employment Verification Form and include Tax Returns that claims yourself as an Interior Designer in the occupation section going back the amount of years you are claiming experience for or letter from a CPA or Attorney. OR
  2. IF YOU ARE NOT SELF-EMPLOYED – Fill out the Employment Verification Form must be signed by Candidate and Employer.
  3. Completed and signed Employment Verification Forms cand be emailed to the Certification Coordinator.
  • Proof for Self-Employment:
    • Complete the Employment Verification Form (Must be signed by CPA or Attorney).
    • Federal Tax Returns 1040/1040A/1040EZ (Page 2 Only)
    • Return for each year of experience
    • Letter from a CPA or Attorney confirming candidate’s profession, verifies knowledge required duration of occupation.
    • Résumés NOT accepted for self-employment
  • Proof for Outside Employment:
    • Complete the Employment Verification Form (Must be signed by Employer/Supervisor or HR Manager).
      • Signature of Employer/Supervisor Required
      • Include a Separate Form for all Experience/Positions for Consideration

Q: Can International Candidates Apply?
A: All Candidates who Meet the Qualifications are Encouraged to Become Certified:

  • International education allowed, provided:
    • International Education from Accredited Source
    • Accreditation by USDE International Equivalent accrediting agency
    • Provide translated/verified transcripts
    • International experience considered
    • Provide verifiable proof of diversified design experience

Q: How do I Know if I Meet the Qualifications?
A: You Must Qualify Under One of the Following Three Paths to Qualification:

Path 1 Candidates
Meet the minimum Qualifications to sit for the IDEX California® Exam, do not qualify to complete certification after passing the IDEX. CCIDC will keep application and test results on file until Candidate provides proof of completion of remaining qualifications to certify.

Candidates must meet one of the following minimum qualifications:

  1. Minimum of 40 Semester Core Units from accredited design program (60 Quarter Units) – OR –
  2. More than 5 but less than 8 years of diversified design experience.

Path 2 Candidates
Qualify to Become Certified Upon Passing the IDEX California®.

Candidates must meet one of the following minimum qualifications:

  1. 80+ Semester Core Units from accredited design program (120+ Quarter Units)
    1. Plus two years of diversified design experience
  2. 60 – 79 Semester Core Units from accredited design program (90+ Quarter Units)
    1. Plus three years of diversified design experience.
  3. 40 – 59 Semester Core Units from accredited design program (60+ Quarter Units)
    1. Plus four years of diversified design experience.
  4. Minimum eight years eight years of diversified design experience, interior design, or combination of both, which total eight years.

Path 3 Candidates
Streamlined path to take the IDEX California® for Candidates who have previously passed a national design exam and become certified.

Candidates provide proof of passing one of the following examinations, to qualify:
ARE | CASP | LEED-AP (+) | NCBDC | NCIDQ | NKBA-CKBD (+) | RIDQC Exam Candidates, please apply under Path 1 or 2

Path 4 Candidates
Streamlined path to take the IDEX California® for Candidates who would like to become certified with a commercial designation.

Candidates must meet all of the following minimum qualifications and provide proof of passing one of the following examinations.
ARE | CASP | LEED-AP (+) | NCBDC | NCIDQ | NKBA-CKBD (+) | RIDQC Exam Candidates, please apply under Path 1 or 2

Candidates must provide proof of passing these California Based International Codes Council (ICC) Courses
• Building 101: Building Department Overview
• California Building Code Essentials
• CBC/CFC Means of Egress
• California Building Code Title 24 Regulations
• CBC Chapter 11B: Accessibility in Public Buildings, Public Accommodations, Commercial Buildings

ALL Candidates MUST pass the IDEX California® to qualify for Certification in California

Q: How do I Apply?
A: Qualified Candidates apply online:

  • Complete and submit the online application
  • Email requested documents to the CCIDC Certification Coordinator
  • Mail in corresponding documentation as instructed
  • Pay Fees: Application/IDEX/Test Center
  • All fees are due at the time of application.
  • Corresponding documentation MUST be received prior to the registration deadline.
    • Registration Deadline for the Spring IDEX® California Examination is March 1st
    • Registration Deadline for the Fall IDEX® California Examination is August 1st
    • Incomplete applications deferred to future testing period, NO Exceptions.
  • Candidates have 1 year from registration approval to sit for exam.
  • Candidates retaking the IDEX®, must pay retest fees prior to respective registration deadline

Q: When is the IDEX California® Testing?
A: There are two testing periods per year:

  • Spring: May 1 – 31st
  • Fall: October 1 – 31st

Q: What Happens After I Submit my Application Packet?
A: The verification process takes time; CCIDC will contact you via email:

• Log in to see status updates on your application.
• Information provided verified by CCIDC Staff (duration varies).
• Notification of application approval provided, upon completion.
• Candidates have 1 year from registration approval to sit for exam.
• NOTICE TO SCHEDULE (NTS) email from Castle Worldwide Testing Center.
• Candidates receive the NTS email at the end of March (Spring)/August (Fall).
• NTS provides candidates testing center account login.
• Candidates log in to select the date, time and location/or online proctoring option for exam.
• Live Remote Proctoring (LRP) option available.
• Many testing centers throughout California, the US, even Worldwide.
• Study materials and courses found on CCIDC website.

Q: Are there study materials for the IDEX® California?
A: CCIDC Provides a Free Study Guide

  • Booklet Includes:
    • Exam information, schedule, rules, exam format, content, sample questions and FAQ.
    • Information regarding study materials and classes, provided by third-party vendors.

Q: When will I know my test results?
A: For accuracy and fairness, a Matriculation expert reviews/qualifies each exam.

  • Exams scheduled all 31 days, tests not verifiable until last exam submitted.
  • Test results provided 3-5 weeks after last day of test month.
  • Email sent with Pass/Fail status when results made available.
  • Letter with specific scores sent USPS.
  • IDEX Certificate mailed to passing candidates.
  • Retakes scheduled as soon as next testing period.
    • Notice to retake and retest fee due: March 1st Spring IDEX or August 1st Fall IDEX.

Q: When I pass the IDEX® California, am I a Certified Interior Designer?
A: No, Passing the IDEX® California does NOT mean candidates are automatically Certified!

  • Path 1 Candidates file held until Candidate provides proof of completion of qualifications.
  • All other Candidates must complete the certification process and be given their CID number/stamp.

Q: What is the next step after passing the IDEX® California?
A: The Compliance Committee reviews and verifies information collected by CCIDC.

  • Congratulations letter sent upon approval and prompt to pay the Bi-Annual Certification Fees.
  • Candidates have 1 year from letter date to complete certification.

Q: When am I a Certified Interior Designer?
A: Candidates are Certified once the following have been completed.

  • Bi-Annual Certification fees received
  • Certification Number assigned.
    • Upon completion, New CIDs will be mailed:
      • CID Interior Designer Information Binder
      • CID Certificate
      • Verification Letter with CID#
      • CID ID-Card
      • Rubber or Digital Stamp (Only if Ordered – approximately 8 – 12 weeks later)***

Q: What does it cost?
A: There are generally two types of fees.

  • Total Fees due with application (Includes Application Fee + IDEX Exam Fee + Testing Center Fee)*:
    • Path 1 & Path 2: $800 Total*
    • Path 3 & Path 4: $700 Total*
  • Total Bi-Annual Certification Fees*
    • Due After Passing Exam and Compliance Approval:
    • ALL Candidates $300 – $400***

* Fee is nonrefundable
***Dependent on Option Selected

Before applying for Certification, please be sure that you meet the Minimum Qualifications

When you apply for Certification, you will also need to provide:

  • Complete Online Application
  • Signed Code of Ethics
  • Proof of Education
  • Proof of diversified interior design experience
  • Photo copy of drivers license
  • Credit card payment or check payable to CCIDC for the:
    • One-time non-refundable application and processing fee
    • IDEX California® exam fee
    • Testing center fee

Before you can be accepted for Certification, you will be required to pass the IDEX® California exam.

After passing the IDEX Exam, and AFTER required notification from CCIDC, the Certification fee will be due and payable for the initial two-year certification.

There will be a $50.00 charge for returned checks and for $25.00 Returned Credit Card transaction fees.

CALIFORNIA CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNERS TITLE ACT | IT’S THE LAW!

  • California Business & Professions Codes Sections 5800 – 5812
  • Under the Certified Interior Designers Title Act law, Certified Interior Designers are qualified by the California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC)
    • Upon proving evidence of a combination of interior design education and/or experience and passage of the IDEX California examination.
  • Only CCIDC can determine eligibility to be a Certified Interior Designer in the State of California. Designers who meet the education, experience and examination criteria of the CCIDC Board are allowed to use the “Certified Interior Designer” title and “CID” appellation and are recognized in the State of California.
  • Certified Interior Designers, as mandated by the State of California, have met high standards of qualification and have agreed to uphold a strict code of ethics and conduct.
  • Certification in California is a Title Act.
  • The Certified Interior Designer/CID is the only title for interior designers recognized by the state.
  • Applications submitted August 2nd – March 1st will be reviewed for the Spring/May Exam period.
  • Applications submitted March 2nd – August 1st will be reviewed for the Fall/October Exam period.
  • Candidates needing to retake the IDEX® California Exam must pay all retest fees prior to the corresponding deadline.