How to Be an Interior Designer

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By Kerry Fletcher ASID
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Be an Interior Designer

Many people use the words "interior decorator" and "interior designer" interchangeably, however there is a big difference. The big difference is that an interior designer is defined by most states as a professional by education, experience, and examination. An interior designer is more of a mix between an architect and a decorator. Anyone can wake up in the morning and decide to be an interior decorator, just as they could decide to become an artist. This article will explain the steps to becoming an interior designer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Since most states require education, experience, and examination to become a licensed interior designer, look online for the requirements for becoming an interior designer in your state. Each state is slightly different, so make sure you follow the steps per your state. Looking online at your requirements will help you determine if you are willing to commit to this career path.
Step 2

Get an education at a CIDA, formerly FIDER, accredited school if required by your state. There are many online options available, so make sure a degree from the school of your choice will qualify for your state. Learn as much as you can not only from school, but from TV and internet sources. For more information on interior design schools, see the link below in the resources section "How to Find the Best Interior Design School".
Step 3

Get experience working for a licensed interior designer or architect, depending on your state's requirements. This experience will help you probably learn almost as much your first year working for an interior designer as you did during your entire college career. You will have to work 6 months to two years, depending on your state's requirements, before you take your licensing exam.
Step 4

Take the NCIDQ exam, which is comparable to lawyers taking the bar exam. The exam changes every 5 years. You may take all parts at once, or one part at a time. Consider joining a study group and taking practice tests because the test is not inexpensive to take. The pass rate is only 60%-70%
Step 5

Once you pass all portions of the NCIDQ exam, you must register with your state. Once approved by the state, you can call yourself a licensed interior designer. You will probably be required to pay dues, stamp drawings, and do continuing education in order to keep your license active. Consider joining professional organizations such as ASID or IIDA in order to advance your career.