CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNER | COMMERCIAL DESIGNATION

What Is the Commercial Designation?

Clear recognition of advanced commercial training.

All Certified Interior Designers (CIDs) hold the same state-recognized certification and are permitted to prepare and submit nonstructural, nonseismic design plans permitted under California Business and Professions Code Sections 5537 and 5538 as well as Sections 5800 – 5812.

The CID Commercial Designation identifies Certified Interior Designers who have completed specialized training in key areas of commercial design and demonstrated professional-level knowledge within that scope of practice.

This voluntary designation provides building officials with added confidence that the designer has received focused, advanced training relevant to commercial tenant improvement projects.

Why It Matters

  • Highlights specialized commercial design training
  • Demonstrates professional-level knowledge in key practice areas
  • Supports clearer communication with building officials
  • Advances consistency in plan review processes

Please Note

  • The Commercial Designation is voluntary
  • It does not change or expand scope of practice
  • It does not grant additional authority to submit plans
  • It does not guarantee plan approval or uniform acceptance across jurisdictions
  • It serves as a recognized indicator of advanced commercial design training

Background & History

Addressing real-world challenges in plan review.

Historically, some building departments have declined plan submissions from interior designers, even when the scope of work was clearly exempt from requiring an architect’s or engineer’s stamp. This has led to unnecessary project delays, added costs, and avoidable administrative barriers when additional professionals were required.

The CID Commercial Designation was developed to help address these challenges by identifying Certified Interior Designers who have completed specialized training in key areas of commercial design.

This added level of recognition helps provide clarity during plan review, particularly in more complex project types such as high-rise and commercial office environments, where familiarity with commercial codes and standards is essential.

Who Should Apply?

This designation is designed for Certified Interior Designers who want to demonstrate advanced knowledge in commercial work.

You may benefit from the Commercial Designation if you are:

  • Working primarily on commercial projects
  • Preparing and submitting drawings to building departments
  • Seeking to highlight specialized training in commercial design
  • Looking to strengthen your professional recognition with plan reviewers and clients

Eligibility

  • To apply for the Commercial Designation, applicants must meet the following requirements:
    • Be a Certified Interior Designer (CID) in good standing or a Path 4 qualified candidate
    • Successfully pass one of the following examinations:
      • ARE
      • CASp
      • LEED (minimum AP)
      • NCBDC
      • NCIDQ
      • NKBA (minimum CKBD)

    Note: Path 4 candidates must apply under Path 4 and complete the IDEX® California Exam as part of that process.

Course Requirements

To obtain the CID Commercial Designation, applicants must complete required International Code Council (ICC) courses.

These courses ensure that Certified Interior Designers develop a strong working knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and standards essential to commercial design. Completion demonstrates the ability to confidently apply ICC codes across a range of commercial project types while supporting safe and compliant design practices.

Required ICC Courses

The required course list is updated with each code cycle to reflect current code standards and industry requirements.

Application Process

For Current CIDs

  • Submit the Commercial Designation Application (located at the bottom of this page)
  • Provide proof of passing an approved national examination
  • Log in to your CID account
  • Pay the $100 application fee
  • Receive ICC course discount coupons via email
  • Complete required ICC courses and submit proof of completion within 90 days

For New Candidates (Path 4)

  • Apply through Path 4 Certification with Commercial Designation
  • Pay the $700 application fee (fee includes the IDEX® California Exam)
  • Complete the IDEX® California Exam and required ICC courses

What You’ll Receive

Certified Interior Designers who earn the Commercial Designation will receive:

  • A unique professional stamp and ID card marked “Commercial”
  • Online verification of designation status through the CCIDC Verify Certification portal, accessible to the public and building officials

CIDs APPLY HERE

Commercial Designation Application (For CIDs)

Name
Please list email address to send ICC Course information and coupon codes to.
To qualify CIDs must be in good standing (Fees paid + CEUs current).
Have you successfully completed on of the following qualified exams?
Must have passed one of the listed exams to qualify.
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload
One of the following: • ARE • CASp • LEED (minimum AP) • NCBDC • NCIDQ • NKBA (minimum CKBD)
By entering my name, I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that all information submitted is true, complete, and accurate. I acknowledge that false or incomplete information will result in immediate disqualification.
Date Application Signed/Submitted to CCIDC
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