...NCIDQ...

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the examination developed?: NCIDQ works with a professional testing company that specializes in the development of certification and licensure examinations to develop, administer and score the examination. NCIDQ carefully documents each step in the test-development process. Multiple reviews by subject-matter and testing experts strengthen the validity of the examination. Continuous evaluation of the examination's quality and reliability maintains the validity of the examination as a measure of knowledge and skill in interior design.
What is covered on the exam?: The exam covers a broad range of knowledge and skills interior designers use in their daily practice. The exam tests only knowledge and skills that protect public health, life safety and welfare. Knowledge that is not critical to public safety, such as design history and furniture styles, is not tested. Review the Exam Information page for details.
How many sections are there on the exam?: There are two multiple-choice sections (half-day each) and one practicum section (full day). You must pass all of them to complete the exam.
Is the exam offered in paper-and-pencil or computer format?: The exam is offered in paper-and-pencil format only.
Can I take Section III (practicum) on a computer using drafting software?: No. Section III (practicum) is offered as a paper-and-pencil exam only. The paper-and-pencil format provides a level playing field for all candidates, some of whom do not have access to drafting software in their daily practice.
Is passage of the NCIDQ Examination a requirement of interior design licensing statutes?: Yes. The NCIDQ Examination is recognized in the United States and Canada as the qualifying examination for the interior design profession. As such, states and provinces with registration (licensing) statutes have stipulated, among license eligibility criteria, successful completion of the NCIDQ Examination.
How often does NCIDQ update its examination?: The multiple-choice sections are updated with new questions for each exam. A new practicum scenario is given on each exam. The underlying "blueprint" of subject areas covered on the exam is updated approximately every five years to reflect changes in interior design practice.
What is the cost of the NCIDQ Examination?: Click here to see current exam fees. All prices are in U.S. dollars and are subject to change. Each section of the exam is priced separately, although if you take all sections at the same time, you receive a discount.
I passed some sections of the six-part NCIDQ Exam that was offered in the 1990s. Can I apply credit from those sections toward the current three-part exam?: No. The transition plan from the old six-part exam to the new three-part exam expired at the end of 2003. You must pay for and pass all three sections of the current NCIDQ Exam to complete the exam and receive the NCIDQ Certificate. There are no exceptions to this policy.

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How is the examination developed?

What is covered on the exam?

How many sections are there on the exam?

Is the exam offered in paper-and-pencil or computer format?

Can I take Section III (practicum) on a computer using drafting software?

Is passage of the NCIDQ Examination a requirement of interior design licensing statutes?

How often does NCIDQ update its examination?

What is the cost of the NCIDQ Examination?

I passed some sections of the six-part NCIDQ Exam that was offered in the 1990s. Can I apply credit from those sections toward the current three-part exam?