I just passed the exams and I’m NCIDQ Certified
How do I maintain my Certification?

Explore the essential requirements and ongoing education needed to keep your NCIDQ certification current,
ensuring your professional credentials remain valid and respected.

Maintain Your NCIDQ Certification with Ease

Discover essential guidelines and continuing education requirements to keep your NCIDQ credentials active and current.

Continuing Education Credits

  • If you are licensed, certified, or registered in a regulated jurisdiction your requirements for continuing education will satisfy CIDQ’s CIDQ’s continuing education requirement. 
  • If you do not reside or work in a regulated jurisdiction or have chosen to not register with your local regulatory board, you must complete 5 hours of Health, Safety, Welfare (HSW)-focused Continuing Education each year
  • You do not need to pay to renew the first year. However, you will still need 5 CEU credits at the time of your first renewal. Your local Jurisdiction may not require the credits the first year.

Renewal Process

  • In order to remain “ACTIVE”, and be able to use the NCIDQ appellation, your NCIDQ Certificate must be renewed annually for $85 (non-refundable). (Current price in 2025)
  • In addition to paying the fee, you must:
  • Remember to maintain a valid email address with CIDQ for renewal reminders

Resources & Support

CEUs ensure that your skills remain sharp, relevant, and aligned with evolving professional practices. Here is a list of resources that offer Continuing Education Unit hours -most of them are Free.

  • AEC Daily. Great resource for live and on-demand education
  • BNP Media. It’s the continuing education center for Architecture and Construction. Sponsored by Architectural Record
  • CEU Events. Very easy to track your credits

The following are additional sources of CEU hours from manufacturers.

  • BIFMA. They offer a range of CEU webinars as well as informational about the industry
  • Benjamin Moore. They conduct webinars from time to time.
  • Think Wood. Many of their courses are on sustainability
  • KI. The Learning Curve by KI. Currently have a wait list for announcements, but sign up to be notified when courses are available.
  • Don’t miss Lunch & Learn opportunities. Check with your employer for possible seminar and presentations. NEWH is a great source to get started.

The following are paid resources. If your jurisdiction requires specific credits on Code, you may need to look in other places beyond FREE credits. Here is my favorite one:

PDH Academy. You may search by State.

Also if you are a member of ASID, check with your local Chapter for offerings from IDCEC

NOTE: Please always check to see the category of the CEU credits you will be taking. CIDQ requires them in HSW (Health Safety and Welfare). Your jurisdiction may allow for other categories, but also require specific courses.

CIDQ (& check with your local jurisdiction) accepts credits offered by IDCEC & AIA

SPECIFIC to FLORIDA:
  • To Register in the State of Florida you will need to My Florida License and apply.
  • To renew your registration, you will need 20 CEU credit hours every 2 years (Renew by 2/28 of odd years).
    This includes 2 hours of ADVANCED Florida Building Codes. I use PDH Academy offerings for these.

Professional Growth Beyond Certification

The most important component of our career as Certified Interior Designers is our commitment to continuous growth—not only on a personal level but also professionally. One of the most effective ways to foster that growth is by becoming involved in professional organizations and networking groups that support the design industry.

Associations like ASID (American Society of Interior Designers), IIDA (International Interior Design Association), and NEWH (The Hospitality Industry Network) offer invaluable opportunities for continuing education, leadership development, and staying engaged with industry trends. Membership in these organizations connects you with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators, and helps you stay visible and active in the design community.

Lastly, mentor and help other designers and students grow professionally—your guidance can make a lasting difference in their journey.

Most Frequently Asked Question about the requirements for NCIDQ certification maintenance?

Explore essential guidelines and expert advice to efficiently fulfill your NCIDQ continuing education and certification renewal.

What are the benefits of keeping my appellation Active?
  • You are included in a searchable directory of NCIDQ Certified Interior Designers available to prospective clients
  • You continue to be eligible for CIDQ leadership opportunities
  • Your annual renewal fee helps support the ongoing development of the NCIDQ Examination process.
  • Your appellation distinguishes you as a trained and highly qualified interior designer.
Can I carry over CEUs if I exceed the required amount during a cycle?

No, CEUs cannot be carried over to the next maintenance period, so plan your education accordingly.

What types of activities qualify for continuing education credits?

Eligible activities include courses, workshops, seminars, and webinars focused on industry standards and professional growth that are approved by IIDA, ASID, or AIA. There may be others that are accepted in your state or local jurisdiction

What happens if I fail to meet the maintenance requirements on time?

Failure to comply may lead to suspension or revocation of your NCIDQ appellation. You will need to pay a reinstatement fee in order to become active again.

Maintain Your Certification with Confidence

Stay informed on NCIDQ renewal requirements.

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