Frequently Asked Questions


How can I update my contact information?

Login to your ASID account and navigate to “Contact Info.” Select the type of contact information you would like to edit or add. Click save before exiting.


How can I retrieve my login information?

If you have forgotten your login information, do not worry! Go to the login page and select the option below “Forgot your password?". Enter the email address associated with your account and click “Submit.”


Where can I read the ASID Bylaws and Policies?

You can access ASID’s Bylaws and Policies through the links below:

Bylaws

Policies


How can I join ASID as an individual member?

Join ASID online! Find your ASID membership category and join as either an Individual or an Organization.

  • Create an account.
  • Select your individual membership type.
  • Fill out the form.
  • Enter payment information.

Await an email confirmation containing your member record number. We look forward to welcoming you to our ASID community of designers, educators, students, and affiliates who believe Design Impacts Lives!


When does my individual membership begin?

Your ASID membership officially begins when your application is processed. For example, if you join ASID in May, your membership cycle would typically run from May 1 of this year to April 30 of next year.


How does ASID verify my individual membership qualifications?

All members are required to sign a membership statement attesting to their qualifications and understanding of membership. Read the ASID statement below:

I hereby apply for membership in the American Society of Interior Designers. I attest that I have read the qualifications and that I meet the requirements of the selected membership category to which I am applying. I agree to provide documentation of my qualifications, which may include, but is not limited to, transcripts, work experience forms, proof of accreditation, and proof of employment upon request from ASID. I understand that failure to produce this documentation can result in the immediate rejection of my application and/or termination of ASID membership. I agree to abide by the Society’s Bylaws, Policies, and Code of Ethics, support its objectives, pay the established dues and fees, and fulfill any mandatory continuing education requirements. I understand that ASID reserves the right to share relevant contact information with educational institutions, nonprofits, industry partners, and other organizations for verification and marketing purposes. I attest that the information provided in this statement is accurate, true, and complete. I understand that any misstatement of information provided in this application is a violation of the ASID Code of Ethics and may result in immediate rejection of my application and/or termination of ASID membership.

After an application is submitted, the Membership Team may contact you if more information, clarification, or documentation is needed.


Does ASID audit members to ensure they are qualified?

Yes. ASID reserves the right to audit qualifications for membership. This would require members to provide documentation of qualifications, which may include, but is not limited to, transcripts, work experience forms, proof of accreditation, and proof of employment. Failure to produce this documentation can result in termination of ASID membership.


What payment methods are accepted for membership dues?

ASID accepts ACH (E-CHECK), VISA, MasterCard (MC), and American Express (AMEX) for membership dues.

Members have the option to securely store their payment details under their ASID profile. If you opt for a quarterly payment plan, you must provide a payment method for automatic deductions. The first quarter installment is always higher than the remaining three payments because it includes the annual $25 legislative fee (for all Individual member types except Students) and the annual $45 processing fee. Review the ASID billing policies for further details.


Why did we move to quarterly installments for membership dues?

The adjustment to this payment processing is aimed at streamlining our billing process to ensure a smoother experience for all members who elect the use of installment plans. The installment option is available to individuals joining or renewing their membership.

Who is eligible for quarterly installments?

All Individual membership types including Practitioner (Professional, Allied, and Associate), Educator, Student, and Affiliate.


Where do I pay my individual dues and how do I get my receipt?

In the “Overview” section of your account, a “Renew” button will appear 60 days prior to your expiration date. You will receive an email confirmation when payment is made. You can also view “Recent Orders” under the “Purchases” tab. Click on the “View” button to display your transactions and “Print” to obtain a copy of your receipt.


When will I receive my individual dues renewal notice?

ASID makes every effort to notify you in advance of your membership expiring. You can expect to receive renewal notifications 60 days prior to your expiration date. Please keep your email address and phone number current so you do not miss these important renewal communications.

How do I access my digital membership card?

Login to your ASID account and navigate to the member dashboard. Click on “View Membership Card.” Click on "ID Card" next to your membership category to download a digital copy. Save it to your phone for easy access, take a screenshot, or follow these steps each time you need it.

ASID is committed to sustainability and efficiency, and we encourage all members to embrace digital membership cards as their primary proof of membership. Join us in our commitment to wellness and sustainability by utilizing your digital membership card.


How can I cancel my individual ASID membership?

While we hate to see you go, please submit a request at least 30 days in advance of your renewal date. It’s our priority to respond to all member feedback. We may use the data to help us identify trends and improve the member experience.


Will I receive credit if I retake a CEU from a past compliance period?

No, CEUs can only be counted once during the reporting period in which they are taken. If the same CEU is completed in a future compliance period, the CEU will not be added to your IDCEC registry or counted towards you ASID CEU membership requirement.


Does the CEU requirement apply to me?

CEU compliance is a membership requirement for all Practitioner Members of ASID. This includes every active ASID member in the Allied, Professional, and Associate membership categories. Educator members are subject to the requirement beginning on January 1, 2024, with the 2024-25 reporting cycle. Note that individual members in the following categories are exempt from the continuing education requirement: Professional Life Member, Professional Retired Member, Allied Retired Member, Affiliate Member, and Student Member.


Why is continuing education important?

The Society requires Practitioner and Educator Members to engage in regular, ongoing continuing education. Enacted by the ASID Board of Directors in April 2007, this member requirement is based on a belief that professional development strengthens the interior design profession and the Society by improving members’ competencies, knowledge, and skills in subject areas essential to the growth and success of the industry.


How much continuing education must I take?

The current policy requires successful completion of at least 10 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), equal to 10 contact hours of approved continuing education coursework, during each two-year reporting period. One contact hour = 60 minutes of instruction. Contact hours do not include breaks or meals, and do not include travel to destinations.


I just joined ASID as a Practitioner or Educator Member and am in my first reporting period. Do I immediately need to begin taking continuing education?

The number of CEUs required during your first reporting period will vary, depending on the time of year your membership status changed.

Join Date

 

CEUs Required

 

 

May 31, 2024 or Before

 

10 CEUs (10 Hours)

   

June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025

 

5 CEUs (5 Hours)

   

June 1 – December 31, 2025

 

None

   

In the past I only had to earn 1.0 CEU, now I have to earn 10 CEUs. Does that mean 100 hours or is it still 10 hours?

IDCEC changed their numbering system since our last member CEU compliance period. In the past, 0.1 CEU = 1 hour, but now 1 CEU = 1 hour. You still need to have at least 10 hours of continuing education over two years; that has not changed.


May I rollover continuing education hours into the next reporting period?

Members may not “bank” CEUs from one reporting period to the next. You may only count those hours taken during the specified two-year reporting period. For the current reporting period, only CEUs earned between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, will fulfill the requirement.


What if there are special circumstances that prevent me from earning my CEUs?

ASID may grant an adjustment to the requirement for poor health, certified by a physician; a specific physical or mental disability, certified by an appropriate health care professional; extended duty with the armed forces; or for extreme hardship, which, in the board’s judgment, makes it impossible for the member to comply. Requests for an adjustment to the continuing education requirement must be made in writing. Please send a brief explanation with your request for exemption via email to membership@asid.org, with the subject line “CEU exemption request”.


Who are approved CEU providers?

ASID will recognize continuing education coursework (courses, workshops, online distance learning programs, webinars, conferences, seminars, etc.) as successfully fulfilling your CEU requirements if the coursework is “approved” by one of the following entities:

  • IDCEC Approval System
  • State Regulatory Board 
  • Approved Industry Relevant Organizations (AIA, GBCI, NKBA, and IFMA)

Please visit ASID Member CEU Requirement for more information and instructions on reporting.


What if a course I’ve taken was not approved by IDCEC or the other accepted entities and I want to use it to fulfill my requirement?

If the course is not approved by IDCEC and does not fit in the other categories listed above you may submit the course for evaluation using the Self Reporting Submission Form. ASID will review the course information to determine eligibility towards the ASID member CEU requirement. You will be notified of the decision within ten business days of receipt. If the course is not approved, you will also be notified. Approvals are based on the information received and reviewed and are valid towards your ASID education membership requirement. All such decisions are final.

Please note, ASID accepts all courses approved by AIA, GBCI, IFMA and NKBA. Certificates of completion for these courses may be added directly to your IDCEC registry.


Is there any limitation on the subject matter of the courses I take?

No. ASID does not impose any CEU mandates for health, safety and welfare coursework at this time. We encourage you to select coursework that supports your own professional development plan and advances your professionalism as an interior designer.


What records will I have to keep?

ASID members are to utilize the International Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC) registry to track their CEUs earned. Every ASID member subject to the continuing education requirement has a unique IDCEC number to log in to the website (your IDCEC number is different from your ASID number). You can find your IDCEC number by logging in to the ASID website and clicking on “Update Account” from the ASID Member Menu. Scroll down to the “About My Work/Affiliations” section of your Member Profile to find your IDCEC number.

The IDCEC user registry allows you to upload and track your continuing education activity as well as store a record for you under your account. Check your IDCEC account regularly to ensure your records are up to date (view our IDCEC Website Guide). It is recommended that ASID Practitioner and Educator Members maintain personal files documenting successful completion of continuing education coursework. The documentation/file for each course or program should be kept for four years from the date of course completion. If you are selected for an audit, ASID will request verification of attendance or the completion certificate for all coursework.


How is my CEU compliance monitored?

ASID receives regular reports from IDCEC indicating how many CEUs each member has attained. The IDCEC website allows you to upload your certificate of completion immediately after you successfully complete your CEU, and will store this record for you under your account. Please view the IDCEC Website Guide for details on how to self report.


How does the audit of member continuing education records work?

At the end of a reporting period, ASID will review the IDCEC report of CEUs completed by each member. Select members will be audited and required to submit proof of the 10 (10 hours) CEUs required by way of a certificate of attendance or completion, or other documentation. Members who cannot supply proof of completion will face failure of compliance. Any member who fails to comply with the continuing education requirement may be subject to suspension of Society membership in accordance with the requirements of the ASID Bylaws.


What if I fail to complete the required number of continuing education hours or CEUs by the end of the reporting period?

At the end of a reporting period, ASID will review the IDCEC report of CEUs completed by each member. Select members will be audited and required to submit proof of the 10 (10 hours) CEUs required. If you are audited and are found to be non-compliant, ASID, at its discretion, may issue you a conditional extension (probationary period) during which you will be required to remedy the continuing education deficiency. If the requirement remains unmet during the next reporting period, your membership in ASID will be subject to suspension in accordance with the requirements of the ASID Bylaws.


Where can I find Continuing Education events in my area?

ASID members can access listings and attend continuing education opportunities through a number of resources, including but not limited to the ASID Academy for online courses, ASID ChaptersIDCEC, and ASID events.


Who qualifies for Industry Partner Membership?

The ASID Industry Partner membership is available to companies that provide a product or service of interest to the industry, and wishes to connect with ASID members in up to 45 chapters. The number of company rep/chapter connections you would like, is what will determine the membership level needed.


What are the different Industry Partner membership categories?

In order to accommodate how a company goes to market and what the desired level of engagement is with the ASID network of chapters, there are 4 different types of IP memberships:  Local, Regional, National and International.  The primary difference between these categories is the number of chapter membership positons their membership provides:  Local comes with 1, Regional with 2 and National with 49. International IP membership provides 2 membership positions and is only for non-US based companies for whom the local chapter experience is not applicable. Download the full benefit checklist for each category.


How do I apply for membership?

You can apply online or by downloading a membership application and emailing the pdf to membership@asid.org. Our team will process your application and payment in 72 hours.

You will receive a welcome email, log in credentials, and have access to your digital membership card immediately upon joining. A welcome kit will arrive by postal mail in the coming months.

Dues are renewed on the annual anniversary of your join date, after your 12 months have passed you will receive an invoice for the next year.

Have questions?  Please contact the ASID Customer Service Department at membership@asid.org or (202) 675-4456.


I want to pay by check, where do I send it?

Please mail checks to the address below and include your ASID ID number and customer name in the check notes:

ASID
PO Box 224023
Chantilly, VA 20153-4023


Who should I list as the main representative of the company?

The main representative of the company can be anyone from the general manager of the company to the president. The main representative is responsible for the company's membership dues (will receive invoices) and has administrative rights on the account for any additions or changes made to that membership roster.


What is a slot? How much does it cost? And who should be listed on my company account?

Local IPs receive 1 slot, Regional IPs start with 2 slots and can add up to 15 slots at $200 each ($4000 for 17 slots total), and National IPs receive 49 slots. The slot is what makes up your company roster, it is a person’s name (the representative) and a chapter of their choice. If a representative wants to be in 2 chapters that is 2 slots. If 2 different people want to be in the same chapter that is also 2 slots. Deciding which staff and which chapters to add is up to the main representative and can be changed at any time by contacting Membership@asid.org. A great representative is any employee that wants to connect with designers and speak about your brand. You can view all 46 of our chapters here: https://www.asid.org/chapter_sites/listing


How much does it cost to add an additional representative?

The annual membership fee for an additional representative is $200 per person.


Once I am a member, how do I get involved with my local Chapter?

ASID chapters is all about communication with its ASID members. Read this great document on how to get involved. Make sure to visit your chapter’s website. You can see all ASID chapter here.

We recommend reaching out to your chapter administrator to introduce yourself. This person will be your main point of contact for the chapter and can get you started on receiving chapter emails right away. Want to reach another member of the chapter board? Not a problem, all emails for the chapter board can be found on the “Board of Directors” page under the about us on each chapter website.


Do you sell your mailing or email list?

We are excited to hear about your interest in working with ASID and connecting with our design community! For our members’ privacy, ASID does not share or sell our members’ contact information. We do however allow IPs to purchase a list rental whereby ASID will send collateral on your behalf.

Are you a local IP? Please contact your chapter to learn more about availability and pricing for an email rental. Are you a National or Regional IP? Please contact Shane Jones (sjones@asid.org) to learn about availability and pricing for rental list and to learn more about rentals.


What is the difference between membership and sponsorship?

Membership is paid with annual dues and allows Industry Partners to take part in the chapter experience. IPs can connect representatives to our network of 45 chapters, and as members, can attend local chapter meetings, participate in various chapter leadership opportunities, and get involved with volunteer activities. Membership also includes access to the latest ASID research.

Sponsorship, offers an optional opportunity to increase visibility through additional marketing, branding, special access, or deeper engagement with an audience, and is typically offered at a fee in addition to annual membership dues. Sponsorship is often used to underwrite programs and events, but can also include other brand awareness, messaging, and promotional activities. Sponsorship opportunities are available on both the local and national level. Locally, the chapter can set their own guidelines and offer advertising and outreach opportunities that are specific to each chapter website and market. To augment local sponsorship, ASID headquarters also offers the ability to align exposure, in-person contact, marketing activities, and touches with the ASID design community via sponsorship of our various national platforms and events. If you have any questions, please reach out to industrypartners@asid.org.


How do I get my CEUs considered for ASID Chapter programming?

Contact the local chapters where you have member representation to inquire about their calendar openings and process. Each chapter operates autonomously and can advise of their opportunities.


How do I get my CEUs considered for ASID National programming?

ASID seeks to identify new and unique presentations for programming at national conferences and industry events via an RFQ process. The call for proposals is coming soon. All completed submissions will be peer reviewed by ASID and volunteers for content, quality and applicability to target audiences. If you have any questions on the RFP or review process, please contact ASID at membership@asid.org.


How do I cancel my membership?

All cancelations must be submitted to ASID by email to membership@asid.org.

Cancelation emails must include 3 things: 1- your name, 2- your ASID member number, 3- your reason for canceling/ membership feedback (this information is shared with our leadership and National Board).

Keep in mind, all ASID memberships auto-renew and dues are non-refundable, so it is important to email membership@asid.org 30 days in advance of your renewal if you wish to avoid additional charges. 


What is the cost for each individual member type and organizational partner type? 

Annual dues can be found under the “Join” section of the ASID website.

Individuals

Organizations


What are the qualifications for each individual member type and organizational partner type? 

Refer to the ASID Bylaws and Policies for qualifications. More details are available regarding the categories under the “Join” section of the ASID website.

Individuals

Organizations


Why did ASID make changes to its membership structure?

ASID is making these changes to make it easier for interior designers and those who have a role in the interior design profession and interior built environment community to be members of ASID. Through the expanded membership model, ASID is acknowledging how interior designers are connected to the ecosystem of the built environment and providing a way for a more accessible, inclusive, and diverse membership. Our goal is to increase awareness and appreciation for the practice of interior design by acknowledging the various voices, perspectives, and professions who all impact the interior built environment.


Is ASID still a professional membership association?

ASID remains a professional membership association focused on the impact that interior design practitioners have on people, place, and planet. ASID will encourage members to pursue the highest level of their professional potential along their career journey and recognize them for their achievements.  

ASID believes that design transforms lives. Through its programs, networks, and advocacy, ASID serves all those who are a part of the interior design profession and practice. ASID thrives on the strength of cross-functional and interdisciplinary relationships among designers of all specialties, including workplace, healthcare, retail and hospitality, education, institutional, and residential. As a leader in shared conversations around topics that matter in design, from evidence-based and human-centric design to social responsibility, well-being, and sustainability, ASID showcases the impact of design on the human experience and the value interior designers provide. 


What has changed?

Membership categories in ASID Bylaws and Policies have been streamlined to be easily understandable so current and potential members can navigate where they fit in ASID membership. Membership will be divided into two major categories: Individuals and Organizations.

  • Individuals
    • Practitioner: Individuals who practice in the field of interior design.
      • i.e., Professional, Allied, and Associate Practitioner Member
    • Educator: Individuals who are faculty or staff within a post-secondary interior design program.
      • i.e., Educator Member
    • Student: Individuals actively enrolled as a student within a post-secondary interior design program.
      • i.e., Student Member
    • Affiliate: Individuals that support the profession of interior design (other than Practitioner, Educator, or Student).
      • i.e., Affiliate Member
  • Organizations
    • Supplier: Any supplier of a product or service that supports the interior design profession and practice.
      • i.e., Industry Partner
    • Firm: Any business with interior design as all or part of the company’s service offerings.
      • i.e., Firm Partner
    • Higher Education Institution: Any post-secondary, higher education institution including a university, college, or accredited school of interior design.
      • i.e., Higher Education Partner
    • Affiliate: Any organization that supports the profession of interior design (other than Supplier, Firm, or Higher Education Institution).
      • i.e., Affiliate Partner

When do the membership changes take effect?

Individual and Organization member categories take effect January 2024.


Why will ASID have the Affiliate Member and Affiliate Partner categories?  

ASID is providing an opportunity for the individuals and organizations involved in the practice of interior design to have a place within the association. For Individuals in this category, members could include your clients, researchers, manufacturers’ representatives, other professionals (i.e., landscape architects and designers, graphic designers, industrial designers, etc.), other students, your colleagues who are a part of your firm, your friends and family who support the impact of design, and future interior designers. 


What is the difference between Affiliate Member and Affiliate Partner?  

An Affiliate Member is an individual who has joined ASID. An Affiliate Partner is an organization that has joined ASID. 


How will ASID maintain its membership standards with broadened Individual and Organization categories?  

All Individual members will be required to follow the ASID Code of Ethics. To be recognized as an Individual Interior Design Practitioner at the Professional, Allied, or Associate level, the member must meet the examination, education, and/or experience requirements. For an Organization, all aspects of the ASID Partner’s business must be in accordance with the Society’s purpose and strategic guideposts.  

How is ASID promoting interior design to the public? 

Our advocacy demonstrates that the interior design industry plays a key role in creating resilient spaces, protecting building occupants and the public, and encouraging sustainable practices that help mitigate changes in the climate; this is all done by penning support letters, submitting public comments, signing proclamations, and coordinating with allied partners like the Healthy Workplaces Coalition and the High-Performance Building Coalition. The impact design has on our quality of life is as substantial as it is tangible. Strong advocacy happens through strength in numbers. Together, we must protect and advance this profession for ourselves and for generations of designers to come.


What are the qualifications for each category? 

This information will be available in the updated ASID Bylaws and Policies that will be published byJanuary 2024 as well as updated sections of the ASID website. More details are available regarding the categories in the additional FAQ.


What are the Individual Member qualifications?

Practitioner Member

  • Professional Practitioner
    • Path 1: Completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of interior design education from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body AND successful completion of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination or equivalent examination approved by the Board OR legal registration in interior design by any state or similar governmental authority that adopted a general interior design qualification law prior to August 17, 1993, provided that such registration remains legally effective (meaning the individual takes the necessary steps to maintain their registration, membership would not be forfeited in instances in which a member loses registration due solely to action taken by the state eliminating registration in the state) and provided further that application therefore was filed in accordance with guidelines by no later than March 31, 1994.
    • Path 2: Completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of architecture education from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body AND successful completion on the Architect Registration Exam (A.R.E.) administered by NCARB or equivalent examination.
  • Allied Practitioner
    • Path 1: Completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of interior design education from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body and does not otherwise qualify as Professional Practitioner member.
    • Path 2: Completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of architecture education from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body and does not otherwise qualify for Professional Practitioner member.  
  • Associate Practitioner
    • Completion of a minimum of college-level associate degree in any major demonstrated by transcript from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body AND six (6) years of documented full time interior design practice and does not otherwise qualify as Professional or Allied Practitioner member.

Educator Member

  • Those individuals employed as faculty or staff within a post-secondary program of interior design education at any higher education institution including a university, college, or accredited school of interior design. Post-secondary program of interior design education must require completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of interior design education. Institution must be accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body. Educators who qualify for Practitioner membership may use an ASID appellation and must fulfill all requirements and obligations of Practitioner membership. 

Student Member

  • Those individuals actively enrolled as a student in a post-secondary program of interior design education being presented at any higher education institution including a university, college, or accredited school of interior design. Program of interior design education must require completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of interior design education from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body. Enrolled students may maintain student membership for a maximum of six years. After six years have passed, the membership will not be renewed but the student may appeal the decision in writing by providing proof of current enrollment in a program eligible for student membership.

Affiliate Member

  • Those individuals, other than Practitioner, Educator, or Student, that support the profession of interior design and do not otherwise qualify for any other Individual member category.

What has specifically changed in the Individual Practitioner member types?

For Professional Practitioner, the category qualifications have been simplified into two pathways (refer to previous categories). For Allied Practitioner, the category qualifications have been expanded into two pathways (refer to previous categories). For Associate Practitioner, the category qualifications remain the same.


What specifically changes for Individual Student member type?

Student Members no longer need to meet a minimum number of years of programmatic study; however, ASID maintains the minimum completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of interior design education from an institution accredited by the appropriate regional or national institutional accrediting body. Interior design education is not required to be CIDA-accredited.


Will Individual members have appellations?

Yes! All Individual member types will have an appellation to use in their signature. This is so members can show their relationship to ASID and be recognized for their achievement in their career.

Practitioner Member

  • Professional Practitioner: Your Name, ASID
  • Allied Practitioner: Your Name, ASID Allied
  • Associate Practitioner: Your Name, ASID Associate

Educator Member

  • Your Name, ASID Educator

Student Member

  • Your Name, ASID Student

Affiliate Member

  • Your Name, ASID Affiliate

How will ASID recognize Fellow and Honorary Fellow member status?

ASID will be adding the ASID Fellow and ASID Honorary Fellow status to Policies to recognize the achievements of these individuals. The ASID Council of Fellows will remain responsible for selecting the annual Class of Fellows. There are two designated appellations for Fellow members.

Fellowship Status

  • Appellation: Your Name, ASID Fellow or Your Name, FASID

Honorary Fellowship Status

  • Appellation: Your Name, ASID Hon. Fellow or Your Name, Hon. FASID

Why did the Professional Practitioner appellation remain the same?

The Professional Practitioner appellation (Your Name, ASID) remains the highest level of a professional interior designer’s achievement.


Why did other appellations change format?

Like other designations used by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) with LEED AP and International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) with WELL AP, ASID is listing the designation first followed by the descriptor.


How will Individual members join?

All Individuals will join as an Affiliate Member. Individual members will be able to apply to another Individual category to use the appellation such as Practitioner (Professional, Allied, and Associate), Educator, or Student.


How are we going to promote interior design when anyone, including interior decorators, can join as an Affiliate Member? 

Interior decorators have a role in the built environment. Interior decorators may join ASID as an Affiliate Member unless they meet qualifications for another Individual Member status. Affiliate Members are not interior design practitioners.


What makes a Practitioner Member “special” when anyone can be a member?

Only Practitioner Members may use the Practitioner Member appellations (i.e., Professional, Allied, or Associate). The appellations available for use is a recognition of an individual’s achievement.


Why is ASID including architects in its membership structure?

ASID has included architects as Practitioner Members since 2013. With the updated membership structure, Practitioners who have a degree in architecture are eligible for the Allied Practitioner membership.


What is the benefit of being an Affiliate Member if you are an interior designer that does not meet the qualifications for a Practitioner Member type?

Becoming an Affiliate Member allows an individual to engage with a community of peers who believe that design transforms lives and who could encourage or mentor the next step of a person's career. Members will have access to ASID resources to pursue their career goals.


Will Individual Professional, Allied, and Associate Practitioners still pay the same annual dues?

Yes. All Practitioner members (Professional, Allied, and Associate) will pay the same annual dues.


Will Student Members in good standing still be eligible for the “Advance to Allied” discounted dues program?

Yes! Student Members in good standing will still be able to take advantage of discounted dues as they begin their careers.


Will ASID still offer an “Inactive” status?

No. Practitioner members who are no longer active may continue their ASID membership in the Affiliate category if they so choose.


Will ASID still offer a “Lifetime” member status?

Yes! The process will remain the same to approve Individual Practitioner members to be granted Lifetime member status.


Will ASID still offer a “Retired” member status?

Yes! Those who apply and are accepted to Retired status will have reduced annual dues. All Individual Practitioner members will be eligible to apply for Retired status. Retired members will still be able to use their Individual member appellation.


Will ASID still offer a “Hardship” status?

Yes! ASID will support Individual members who are experiencing hardship. Those who apply and are accepted to Hardship status will have reduced annual dues.


Who is eligible to vote?

All Individual members in good standing shall be entitled to one vote in any Society or chapter election or at any Society or chapter membership meeting. This includes Individual Practitioner (Professional, Allied, and Associate), Educator, Student, and Affiliate Members.


Who is eligible to serve in volunteer leadership positions?

Individual Members of all categories, except for Student members, shall be eligible to hold any office in a chapter, as provided for in these Bylaws.

Members of all categories shall be eligible to volunteer on an ASID national Councils and Committees. ASID will release the qualifications and requirements for the volunteer positions in an annual call for volunteers.


Who will be required to fulfill the ASID member continuing education requirement?

Individual Practitioner (Professional, Allied, and Associate) and Educator Members will be required to fulfill the ASID Continuing Education Membership Requirement.

Individual Educator Members will begin reporting Continuing Education in the 2024-25 reporting cycle (beginning January 1, 2024 and concluding December 31, 2025).

Any Individual Practitioner and Educator member who fails to comply with the continuing education requirements set forth in the ASID Policies is subject to suspension or termination in accordance with the ASID Policies.


How will ASID encourage individuals to advance professionally?

ASID encourages all members to pursue professional development to advance their careers. To support, ASID launched the NCIDQ Exam Prep Program in July 2023 along with a discount on PPI Power to Pass NCIDQ Exam Prep Products. Learn more.

ASID also encourages members to consider other credentials and certifications to advance their careers. Learn more.

Additionally, ASID members can take advantage of the CEUs and learning resources available on the ASID Academy – most of which are available as a member benefit. Learn more.


Is there a time frame that individuals may remain in an Allied Practitioner or Associate Practitioner before they must move to Professional Practitioner?

No. Individual Practitioner members may remain in any category unless they meet the requirements of any other Practitioner type. ASID encourages all members to advance their careers and recognition through continuing education and credentials.


Are there differences in Individual member benefits?

No. All Individual members including Practitioners, Educators, Students, and Affiliates receive the same benefits for being part of the ASID community.


What are the Organization Member qualifications?

Supplier (ASID Industry Partner)

  • Any supplier of a product or service to the interior design profession. An Industry Partner may have a retail component to their business but must demonstrate the existence of a specific “to the trade” program in the way of a dedicated sales representative, discount program, etc. All aspects of an Industry Partner’s business must be in accordance with the Society’s purpose and strategic guideposts.
  • A designated number of employees of Industry Partner may be provided Affiliate Member status. The member will notify ASID of the designees that are selected to receive member status. Designees of an Industry Partner who qualify for Practitioner or Educator Member status may use respective ASID appellation and must fulfill all requirements and obligations of Individual membership category.
  • Should an Industry Partner be terminated, then its designees will lose membership status. ASID may contact individuals to offer Individual membership or the individual may otherwise apply for membership on their own.

Firm (ASID Firm Partner)

  • Any business with interior design as all or part of the company’s service offerings. All aspects of a Firm Partner’s business must be in accordance with the Society’s purpose and strategic guideposts.
  • A designated number of employees of Firm Partner may be provided Affiliate Member status. The member will notify ASID of the designees that are selected to receive member status. Designees of a Firm Partner who qualify for Practitioner or Educator Member status may use respective ASID appellation and must fulfill all requirements and obligations of Individual membership category.
  • Should a Firm Partner be terminated, then its designees will lose membership status. ASID may contact individuals to offer Individual membership or the individual may otherwise apply for membership on their own.

Higher Education Institution (ASID Higher Education Partner)

  • Any post-secondary, higher education institution including a university, college, or accredited school of interior design. Institution must offer a post-secondary program of interior design education that requires the completion of 40 semester/60 quarter hours of interior design education. All aspects of a Higher Education Partner’s business must be in accordance with the Society’s purpose and strategic guideposts.
  • A designated number of students, faculty, and staff may be provided Affiliate Member status. The member will notify ASID of the designees that are selected to receive member status. Designees of a Higher Education Partner who qualify for Student, Educator, or Practitioner Member status may use respective ASID appellation and must fulfill all requirements and obligations of Individual membership category.
  • Upon graduation, Student members of a Higher Education Partner may maintain membership through Individual membership category.

Affiliate Organization (ASID Affiliate Partner)

  • Any organization, other than Company, Firm, or Higher Education Institution, that supports the profession of interior design. All aspects of an Affiliate Partner’s business must be in accordance with the Society’s purpose and strategic guideposts. Affiliate Partner must not qualify for membership under any other Organization category.
  • A designated number of employees of Affiliate Partner may be provided Affiliate Member status. The member will notify ASID of the designees that are selected to receive member status. Designees of an Affiliate Partner who qualify for Practitioner or Educator Member status may use respective ASID appellation and must fulfill all requirements and obligations of Individual membership category.
  • Should an Affiliate Partner be terminated, then its designees will lose Individual membership status. ASID may contact individuals to offer Individual membership or the individual may otherwise apply for membership on their own.

How will Organization members join?

Organizations will join ASID based on their respective Partner category. The Organization will be able to enroll their entire teams as ASID members. The designated employees (or students and faculty, as appropriate) of ASID Partners will receive ASID Individual member benefits. Additionally, the Partner’s designees will start as ASID Affiliate Members and may provide the appropriate documentation to use another Individual Member appellation such as Educator Member, Student Member, or Practitioner Member (Professional, Allied, or Associate).

How will Organization members be recognized?

Organizations that join ASID will be recognized as an ASID Partner. Partners will be classified as Industry Partner, Firm Partner, Higher Education Partner, and Affiliate Partner. Organization members may identify themselves to the public and may use the designated Partner emblem for all business purposes inclusive of product advertising and promotion. 

What are the ASID Partner benefits?

Details will be released in 2024.


Will an Organziation’s employees need to join ASID individually?

No. The organization will be able to enroll their entire teams as ASID members.

How will an Organization manage its membership?

When an Organization becomes an ASID Partner, the Organization will be required to provide ASID with a point of contact. The Partner point of contact will be responsible for providing ASID with the list and contact information of the Partner’s designees to receive Individual membership.

What if an Organization wants to add (or remove) members during the year?

Changes happen throughout the year. Under the new Organization member category, ASID Partners will be able to add or remove members throughout the year without impacting the Organization’s membership.

How will an Organization renew its partnership?

The Organization will renew its partnership annually.

What happens if the Organization does not renew its partnership?

Unfortunately, if the Organization does not renew its partnership, then the designees will no longer be ASID Individual members. Individuals may join ASID on their own and ASID may reach out to the Organization’s designees for Individual membership.

Will a small interior design business be able to join ASID as a Firm Partner?

Yes! Our goal is to make the Firm Partner membership accessible for interior design businesses of any size. If a company joins as a Firm Partner, then the company’s employees will receive ASID Affiliate Membership. The Individual may then apply to another ASID Individual member category to use the respective appellation.

Will the Higher Education Partner replace ASID Student Chapters?

No. ASID will still have ASID Student Chapters to support students in organizing locally and developing their leadership skills.

Can ASID Student Chapters be established if an Organization is not an ASID Higher Education Partner?

Yes! Students may still organize a student chapter independently on their campus.