Do you need to have a license to be an interior decorator? There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the topic of interior decorating licenses. Many people believe that you need to have a license in order to call yourself an interior decorator…
But this is not always the case! That’s why, today, we’ll explore this very topic and answer this question once and for all!
Dream of a career as an interior decorator, but not sure how to get started? Learn how YOU can launch a career in interior decorating (even if you have no experience)!
First, let’s clear up one common misconception: the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator.
Interior Designer
An interior designer is a professional who is qualified to design the inside of buildings. This includes everything from the layout and construction to the finishes and furniture. Interior designers usually have a bachelor’s degree in interior design, as well as several years of experience working in this field.
Interior Decorator
An interior decorator is someone who specializes in the appearance of a room. This includes the furniture, walls, and flooring.
Many interior decorators have a degree or certification in interior design. However, this is not required to be an interior decorator. This is because there are no specific laws that regulate this industry.
So, now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s answer the question:
Do You Need to Have a License To Be an Interior Decorator?
No, you do not need a license to be an interior decorator.
As we mentioned before, interior decorating is an unregulated industry. This means that there are no specific educational requirements or licensing exams that you need to pass in order to become an interior decorator.
However, this doesn’t mean becoming an interior decorator is easy. In order to be successful in this field, you’ll need to have a strong eye for aesthetics and a good understanding of design principles. You’ll also need to be creative, organized, and detail-oriented.
Some people do not have the natural skills to be interior decorators. That is why it is important to get proper training and education. You will learn all of the necessary skills in order to be successful in this competitive field.
How To Get an Interior Decorator License
If you want to get licensed, the best way to do it is to get a degree in interior design from an accredited program. You can find these programs at many colleges and universities.
Once you’ve completed your studies, you’ll need to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam. If you pass the NCIDQ exam, you’ll be officially licensed as an interior designer!
Do You Need To Have a Degree To Be an Interior Decorator?
No, you don’t need a degree to be an interior decorator. However, having some training or education in interior decorating will help you a lot. It will show clients and employers that you are serious about your career and have the skills and knowledge to be successful.
The Consequences Of Not Having Proper Training or Education
If you don’t have the proper training or education in interior decorating, it will be harder for you to succeed in the professional design industry. This is because you will make a lot of mistakes if you don’t have the proper foundation. And when it comes to design, even the smallest mistake can have big consequences!
For example, you might make a mistake in your measurements. Or you might choose the wrong type of furniture for the space. As a result, your project could cost more money for your client, take longer to complete, and/or not be what the client envisioned for their home.
If you don’t have the proper training or education, you will be at a disadvantage when looking for clients or getting a job. This means that it will be harder for you to find work and you might make more mistakes than someone who does have the proper training. These mistakes could lead to losing clients and getting bad reviews.
QC Design School’s Interior Decorating Course
QC Design School offers an Interior Decorating Course that is self-paced and online. This means you can learn at your own speed and in your own time! The best part? In as little as 12 weeks, you could earn an International Design and Decorating Professional (IDDP) certification, which is globally recognized. This certification will look great on your resume and portfolio!
The 7-unit course covers a range of topics such as design principles, color theory, furniture selection, floor plans and more!
We offer a number of different payment options, such as our low monthly payment plan. This way, you can choose the one that best suits your needs. And if you’re not satisfied with the course, we offer a 21-day money-back guarantee.
So, if you’re interested in becoming an interior decorator, we highly recommend taking our course. It’s the best way to give yourself a head start in this competitive field.
Learn more about QC Design School’s online Interior Decorating Course!
Frequently Asked Questions
Finally, let’s answer some FAQs on the topic of interior decorating licenses, certifications, etc….
Do You Need a License To Run Your Own Interior Decorating Business?
While you don’t need a license to work as an interior decorator, you will need a business license to run your own interior decorating business.
To get a business license, you’ll need to contact your local government office. They’ll be able to provide you with the necessary paperwork and tell you what steps you need to take in order to obtain a license.
Do You Need To Have Liability Insurance If You’re an Interior Decorator?
Yes, it’s a good idea to have liability insurance if you’re an interior decorator. This is because, as a professional designer, you could be held responsible if something goes wrong with a project. For instance, if the furniture you selected doesn’t fit in the client’s space.
Furthermore, liability insurance will protect you in the event that you’re sued or held liable for damages.
Do You Need To Be a Member of A Design Association In Order To Work as an Interior Decorator?
No, you don’t need to be a member of a design association in order to work as an interior decorator. However, there are a number of benefits to joining one.
Some of the benefits include:
- Access to resources (e.g., industry news, job postings, etc.)
- Networking opportunities
- Discounts on things like insurance and education courses
So, while you don’t need to be a member of a design association, it might be something worth considering.
Did you know that students and grads of QC Design School have access to a list of esteemed design associations? It’s true – and you can take advantage of this invaluable opportunity the moment you enroll!
What Do You Need To Start an Interior Decorating Business?
Finally, you’ll need a business license (as mentioned above).
It’s also important that you have a strong portfolio of your previous work. This will give potential clients an idea of your style and what you’re capable of.
First, you’ll need to have a strong understanding of design principles and color theory. You’ll also need to be familiar with furniture selection and placement, as well as floor plan creation.
If you’re thinking about starting your own interior decorating business, there are a few things you’ll need.
Here are some resources you can bookmark that’ll help you start your very own interior decorating business:
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped answer the question, “Do you need to have a license to be an interior decorator?”
In short, the answer is no. You don’t need a license to work as an interior decorator. However, you will need a business license if you’re planning on starting your own interior decorating business.
It’s also important to note that while you don’t need a license or certification to work as an interior decorator, taking courses and becoming certified can give you a competitive edge in the industry.
If you’re interested in becoming an interior decorator, we recommend checking out QC Design School’s online Interior Decorating Course! It’s the perfect way to get started in this exciting and creative industry.
Got any questions or comments for us? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!
Thanks for reading!