Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Links:
Thinking About the RIDQC Exam | Eligibility & Preparation | Exam Overview | Technology & Proctoring Requirements | Exam Format & Structure | Scoring & Results | Certification Use & Professional Scope | International Candidates | Still Have Questions?
Thinking About the RIDQC Exam?
Q: WHAT IS THE RIDQC?
A:
The Residential Interior Design Qualification Certification (RIDQC) is a professional credential that validates foundational knowledge and competency in residential interior design.Q: WHO IS THE RIDQC FOR?
A:
Graduates of residential interior design programs,Designers who have completed qualifying coursework, and
Practicing designers seeking a professional credential focused on residential interiors.
Q: WHAT DOES EARNING THE RIDQC DEMONSTRATE?
A:
It demonstrates a verified level of knowledge in residential interior design principles, professional standards, and best practices.Eligibility & Preparation
Q: WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO TAKE THE RIDQC EXAM?
A:
Candidates who have completed qualifying residential interior design courseworkor
who can demonstrate professional residential design experience may be eligible to sit for the RIDQC exam.Q: DO I NEED TO GRADUATE BEFORE TAKING THE EXAM?
A:
Candidates may be eligible to register for the RIDQC exam while enrolled in their coursework. However, access to the MYRIDQC portal is provided only after successful completion of an approved course of study or verification of qualifying professional experience.Q: HOW DO I KNOW IF MY COURSEWORK OR EXPERIENCE QUALIFIES?
A:
The RIDQC Board reviews qualifying education and professional experience. If you are unsure whether you meet eligibility requirements, please contact the RIDQC Support Team through the Purchase Form prior to registering.Q: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TAKE THE EXAM?
A:
It is strongly recommended that candidates complete their coursework or have sufficient professional experience before sitting for the exam to ensure adequate preparation.Q: HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE EXAM?
A:
Utilize the study guide manual provided within your MYRIDQC portal, and use professional reference books to strengthen understanding. Review foundational residential design principles. Revisit course materials or professional practice knowledge.Exam Overview
Q: IS THE RIDQC A STATE LICENSING EXAM?
A:
No. The RIDQC is a professional certification, not a state-issued license. State licensing exams are focused on pulling permits. RIDQC designers utilize licensed professionals to pull permits and protect the public.Q: DOES THE RIDQC ALLOW ME TO PRACTICE RESIDENTIAL DESIGN?
A:
Yes. You may practice residential design; however, state laws vary regarding title usage, permitting, and scope of work.Q: IS THE RIDQC RECOGNIZED IN ANY STATE CREDENTIALING PATHWAYS?
A:
Yes. The RIDQC certification is recognized by the California Council for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC) as an accepted examination component for candidates pursuing Certified Interior Designer status in California, when combined with the state’s required professional experience and additional examinations. The RIDQC alone does not confer a state license or title. This pathway focuses on obtaining permits and submitting plans.California Note:
Acceptance of the RIDQC applies only within the CCIDC certification pathway and does not replace California’s full certification requirements.Q: HOW IS THE RIDQC DIFFERENT FROM NCIDQ?
A:
RIDQC focuses specifically on residential interior design knowledge and competency. NCIDQ is required in a few states for the title or practice related to commercial and regulated work, and pulling plans.Technology & Proctoring Requirements
Q: WHAT TECHNOLOGY DO I NEED?
A:
A reliable computer (Mac or PC), Stable internet connection, and Webcam and microphone.Q: IS SPECIAL SOFTWARE REQUIRED?
A:
Yes. A secure browser is required and must be installed prior to the exam.Q: IS THERE AN ADDITIONAL PROCTORING FEE?
A:
Yes. A separate $60 proctoring fee is required and is paid directly to ProctorU. This fee isnot included
in the RIDQC exam registration fee. Additional fees may apply for expedited scheduling.Exam Format & Structure
Q: IS THE EXAM ONLINE OR IN PERSON?
A:
The exam is administered online through a remote proctoring service, ProctorU.Q: IS THE EXAM PROCTORED?
A:
Yes. A live online proctor monitors the exam session.Q: IS THE EXAM OPEN BOOK?
A:
No. Reference materials, notes, manuals, and internet access are not permitted during the exam.Q: CAN I SKIP QUESTIONS AND RETURN TO THEM LATER?
A:
Yes. You may navigate back to unanswered questions during the exam.Q: ARE THERE WRITTEN OR ESSAY QUESTIONS?
A:
Yes. Some portions of the exam include written responses that are graded by qualified reviewers.Q: HOW LONG DOES THE EXAM TAKE?
A:
The total exam time varies by section. Candidates should plan for several uninterrupted hours.Scoring & Results
Q: WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY EXAM RESULTS?
A:
Exam results are not immediate. Written portions require manual grading. Results are typically delivered within7 normal business days
after exam completion.Q: HOW WILL I RECEIVE MY RESULTS?
A:
Results are sent via email once grading is complete.Certification Use & Professional Scope
Q: CAN I USE THE RIDQC DESIGNATION AFTER PASSING?
A:
Yes. Once you pass, you may use the RIDQC credential in accordance with RIDQC guidelines.Q: CAN I PULL PERMITS OR PERFORM STRUCTURAL WORK?
A:
No. Pulling permits and performing structural or regulated work requires licensed professionals such as architects or contractors.Q: DOES THE RIDQC REPLACE STATE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS?
A:
No. State laws and regulations vary and must always be followed.International Candidates
Q: CAN INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS TAKE THE RIDQC EXAM?
A:
Yes. International candidates are welcome to sit for the exam.Q: DOES THE RIDQC APPLY INTERNATIONALLY?
A:
The RIDQC is a professional credential. Candidates must comply with local laws and regulations regarding interior design practice in their country.Still Have Questions?
Q: WHAT IF MY QUESTION IS NOT ANSWERED HERE?
A:
If you do not see your question answered here, please contact the RIDQC Support Team by clicking‘GET IN TOUCH’
below for clarification before registering for the exam.