This FAQ explains how IDCEC Continuing Education works and how design professionals track, report, and verify CEU credits. It clarifies who receives an IDCEC number, how credits are reported, and how compliance is determined by associations and state boards rather than IDCEC itself. The information helps designers maintain continuing education requirements accurately and efficiently.
What is an IDCEC Number?
An IDCEC number is a unique learner identifier used to access the International Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC) Registry. It allows interior designers and related professionals to track and report continuing education units (CEUs). Members of ASID, IIDA, and IDC are automatically assigned an IDCEC number as part of their membership.
Who can create an IDCEC Registry account?
ASID, IIDA, and IDC members receive free access to the IDCEC Registry using their assigned IDCEC number. Non-member professionals may also create an IDCEC Registry account but are charged a fee per CEU event entered.
How many CEUs are required for compliance?
IDCEC does not set CEU requirements. Continuing education requirements are determined by your professional association (such as ASID, IIDA, or IDC) and/or your state licensing board. Always confirm requirements directly with the governing body responsible for your credential or license.
Where can I find IDCEC-approved CEU courses?
IDCEC-approved courses are listed on the official IDCEC Event Calendar. Courses listed there are pre-approved and eligible for registry reporting when completed according to provider instructions.
Does having an IDCEC number make me an IDCEC member?
No. Registry users are not IDCEC members. Membership applies only to organizations or individuals registered as CEU providers. The IDCEC number grants access to the learner registry only.
Can I report non-IDCEC approved courses?
Yes. The IDCEC Registry allows users to self-report non-IDCEC courses. However, these courses must be accepted by your association or state board to count toward compliance. IDCEC does not validate self-reported content for acceptance by third-party organizations.
How are trade show and conference seminars reported?
Reporting depends on the course format code:
- Courses with an SE-#####-### format must be self-reported by the attendee using proof of attendance.
- Courses with a CC-######-#### format are reported directly by the provider. Attendees are responsible for confirming whether the provider submits attendance or whether self-reporting is required.
How do I reset my IDCEC Registry password?
Use the “Forgot Password” option on the IDCEC login page. A temporary password will be emailed, typically within one business day. If the email is not received, check spam or junk folders or contact IDCEC administration.
How do I view my completed CEUs?
After logging into the IDCEC Registry, navigate to the Transcript section and select the appropriate reporting period. The registry requires a minimum of one CEU hour per entry and allows a maximum of eight CEU hours per day.
Do I need to submit my CEU transcript separately?
ASID, IIDA, and IDC have electronic access to the IDCEC Registry, so members typically do not need to submit transcripts manually. State licensing boards may still require transcript copies during license renewal, depending on jurisdiction.
How is Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) credit assigned?
HSW designation is applied only when IDCEC approves a course as HSW. For self-reported courses, the certificate of completion must explicitly state HSW eligibility in order for that designation to appear on the transcript.
Best practices for using the IDCEC Registry
Always provide your IDCEC number when attending CEU events so providers can report attendance accurately. Retain certificates of completion and proof of attendance for audit or licensure purposes. Verify reporting responsibilities for conferences and trade shows before assuming credits are automatically submitted.
Recommended IDCEC Education Providers
For reliable, professionally developed continuing education courses that support IDCEC reporting and compliance, consider the following providers:
- RonBlank.com – Provider of accredited continuing education courses for interior designers and architects, including IDCEC and HSW-qualified content.
- GreenCE.com – Offers IDCEC-approved courses with an emphasis on sustainability, building performance, and health, safety, and welfare topics.
About the Author
Brad Blank is a building product specification advisor specializing in AIA continuing education and LEED education. He has more than 25 years of experience in the AEC industry working with architects, engineers, and building product manufacturers to support product specification and professional education.
His work includes developing AIA and GBCI continuing education courses, producing technical FAQs, and supporting the preparation of Health Product Declarations (HPDs) and LEED product documentation for building products.