Exam Basics

Download a PDF of the most frequently asked questions about the NCIDQ Examination.

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 3 (Practicum) on a computer using drafting software?

No. Section 3 (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. New practicum exercises are 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 heard the exam is changing in 2010, how will that affect my current scores?

See 2010 Multiple-Choice Changes FAQs for more information.

I passed some sections of the old exam before it changed. Can I apply credit from those sections toward the current exam?

No. You must pay for and pass all three sections of the current NCIDQ Exam to complete the exam and receive the NCIDQ Certificate. Certification and licensure examinations represent to the public that the individuals who hold their credential have been determined to be at least minimally competent at the time the credential was issued. When candidates are allowed to take individual test sections over many years or decades, it is harder to claim that at one point in time these individuals possessed all of the knowledge, skills and abilities required for minimum entry-level competence. There are no exceptions to this policy.