Local Guide · Interior designers · Florida
Do interior designers need a license in Florida?
Florida exempts residential interior design from licensing and restricts only the title registered interior designer. Here is what that means and how to check.
Not for homes. Florida's interior design law does not apply to interior design or decorator services for any residential application, including houses, townhouses, apartments and condos. Only registered people may use the title registered interior designer, which you can verify on DBPR's license search. Anyone may use the title interior designer.
Who licenses interior designers providers in Florida
Florida DBPR, Board of Architecture and Interior Design. Florida registers interior designers through the Board of Architecture and Interior Design. Florida Statutes 481.229 exempts interior design services for residential applications. Florida Statutes 481.223 restricts the title registered interior designer but not interior designer. Verify registrations on DBPR's license search.
Check a license →Key facts for Florida
- Florida's interior design law does not apply to interior design or decorator services for residential applications.
- Florida's definition of residential applications includes single-family homes, multifamily homes, townhouses, apartments and condominiums.
- Retail employees providing interior decorator services for sales are exempt if they don't claim to be registered interior designers.
- Florida restricts the title registered interior designer but not interior designer.
- Florida says an interior designer may not act as a contractor unless licensed as one.
- Florida architects can qualify for interior design registration by application.
What does Florida's residential exemption cover?
Florida Statutes 481.229 says the law does not apply to interior design or decorator services for any residential application, from single-family homes to condos. Retail employees giving decorator advice for sales are also exempt if they don't claim registration.
What titles are protected?
Registered interior designer is protected; interior designer is not (481.223). Verify registered designers on the DBPR license search.
Can a designer manage construction?
Florida says an interior designer may not act as a contractor unless licensed under the contractor law. Hire licensed contractors for construction.
How to choose a provider in Florida
- Ask whether the designer is registered, and verify on DBPR if so.
- Review portfolio and references.
- Get scope, fees and purchasing terms in writing.
- Hire licensed contractors for construction.
Questions people ask
Do I need a licensed interior designer for my Florida home?
No. Residential interior design is exempt.
Can anyone use the title interior designer in Florida?
Yes. Only registered interior designer is restricted.
Can my designer act as my contractor?
Not unless licensed as a contractor.
Where do I verify a registered interior designer?
DBPR's license search.
Are condos included in the residential exemption?
Yes, along with apartments, townhouses and houses.
What does interior design mean under Florida law?
Design work for nonstructural interior elements, such as space planning, reflected ceiling plans and furnishings.
Sources
This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.
