Interior Design Schools

State Registration and Professional Requirements

Why interior design regulation differs by state, what kinds of rules exist, and where to check the current requirements before you plan a career in a given state.

Last reviewed 3 November 2026

Professional requirements for interior designers are not identical across the United States. Each state decides whether and how interior design is regulated.

Kinds of rules

Depending on the state, rules may restrict the use of a title such as “registered interior designer,” may regulate the practice of interior design in certain building types, or may leave the field largely unregulated. Some states recognize NCIDQ Certification as part of their requirements; the details differ and change.

Architect licensure is a different regime administered by state boards and coordinated by NCARB. Interior architecture degrees do not automatically lead to architect licensure.

How to check

Contact the state board or regulator directly and read the statute or rules. Professional associations such as ASID and IIDA publish advocacy and regulatory information, and CIDQ publishes information on how NCIDQ Certification is used. Confirm everything with the state authority, because this site does not provide legal advice.

What this directory does and does not say

Program pages never state that a graduate is eligible for registration or licensure in any state unless an official page for that program says so, and then we quote exactly what it says.

Official sources

This guide is general information, not legal, immigration or financial advice and not a statement about any school. Confirm requirements with the licensing authority and the school.