CERTIFIED INTERIOR DESIGNER | COMMERCIAL DESIGNATION

What Is the Commercial Designation?

All Certified Interior Designers (CIDs) hold the same state-recognized certification. The CID Commercial Designation recognizes Certified Interior Designers who are qualified to prepare and submit nonstructural, nonseismic commercial tenant improvement plans for building permit approval. Designers holding this designation may submit such plans without an architect’s or engineer’s stamp, as permitted under California Business and Professions Code Sections 5537 and 5538.

While the certification itself is the same for all CIDs, this voluntary designation helps building officials easily identify interior designers whose commercial work falls within California’s permitted scope of practice.

Please Note

  • The Commercial Designation is voluntary.
  • It does not guarantee plan approval or uniform acceptance across all jurisdictions.
  • It serves as a useful identifier for CIDs with commercial design expertise.
  • It supports ongoing efforts to improve and streamline plan review processes for interior designers.

Background & History

Historically, some building departments have refused plan submissions from interior designers even when the scope of work was clearly exempt from requiring architectural or engineering stamps. This has resulted in avoidable project delays and increased costs when designers were required to involve additional professionals.

The Commercial Designation helps reduce these issues by clearly identifying Certified Interior Designers who are qualified to submit exempt commercial projects. This is especially valuable in more complex environments such as high-rise office buildings.

Who Should Apply?

This designation is ideal for:

  • Interior Designers engaged primarily in commercial projects.
  • Designers who regularly submit drawings to building departments.
  • Certified Interior Designers seeking a specialized commercial designation on top of their certification.

Eligibility

  • Must be a CID in good standing or a Path 4 qualified candidate.
  • Must pass one of the following exams:
    • ARE
    • CASp
    • LEED (minimum AP)
    • NCBDC
    • NCIDQ
    • NKBA (minimum CKBD)

Note: Path 4 candidates must also pass the IDEX California® Exam.

To obtain the Certified Interior Designer (CID) Commercial Designation, completion of the following International Code Council (ICC) courses is mandatory. These courses are designed to ensure that interior designers possess a comprehensive understanding of the codes, regulations, and standards required for safe and compliant commercial design practices. Successful completion demonstrates proficiency in applying ICC codes within various commercial design contexts, preparing designers to meet industry and regulatory expectations with confidence.

Required ICC Course List (Updated for each code cycle).

For Current CIDs

  1. Submit the Commercial Designation Application (found at the bottom of this page).
  2. Submit proof of national exam passage.
  3. Log in to your CID account.
  4. Pay the $100 application fee.
  5. Receive ICC course discount coupons via email.
  6. Submit proof of course completion within 90 days.

For New Candidates (Path 4)

  1. Apply through Path 4 Certification with Commercial Designation.
  2. Pay the $700 application fee (includes IDEX Exam).
  3. Complete the IDEX California® and ICC courses as required.
  • Certified Interior Designers who earn the Commercial Designation will receive:
    • A unique stamp and ID card marked “Commercial”.
    • Public and building officials can verify designation status on the CCIDC Website through the Verify Certification portal.

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)
Clear Signature
I certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the information provided is true, complete, and accurate. Any false or incomplete information will result in immediate disqualification.
Date Application Signed/Submitted to CCIDC
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