Certified Remodeling Designer (CRD)

Ideal for experienced design professionals dedicated to developing functional, buildable, and profitable remodeling designs.

Apply for Certification and Prep Course

NARI Certified Remodeling Designers (CRD®) are recognized as accomplished professionals with the advanced design knowledge to transform client visions into successful remodeling outcomes. These certified experts bridge the gap between design and production for seamless project execution. 

The Certified Remodeling Designer (CRD®) Program covers the essential concepts and best practices required to design high-performing, profitable remodeling projects:

  • Design leadership – Serve as a key link between all stakeholders, guiding communication and collaboration throughout the sales, design, and remodeling process.
  • Functional and budget-conscious design – Develop creative design solutions that balance aesthetics, practicality, and financial constraints.
  • Production collaboration – Partner effectively with production teams to ensure designs are buildable, efficient, and aligned with project realities.
  • Client discovery and engagement – Uncover clients’ true motivations, needs, and priorities.
  • Expectation management – Establish and communicate realistic goals and timelines to promote client satisfaction and control throughout the process.
  • Site evaluation – Assess existing conditions to inform design decisions.
  • Optimized layouts – Create efficient and functional layouts for kitchens, baths, and other living spaces.
  • Material and product selection – Choose appropriate materials, fixtures, and appliances based on function, durability, and design intent.

Online Preparatory Course

Need help preparing for your CRD certification exam? Don't go it alone.

NARI offers a convenient, online, instructor-led certification preparatory course to help you advance your skill set and prepare for your certification exam alongside your peers from across the country.

Prep Course Start Dates Where Duration
February 25 Online via Zoom Nine weeks
September 16   Meets once per week
    Two-hour sessions (5pm - 7pm Central Time)

Apply for Certification and Prep Course

Eligibility and Certification Process

Check if you're eligible

Before applying for CRD certification, assure you meet the following certification requirements:

  • Minimum of two (2) years continuous experience in the remodeling and construction industry in a design capacity (or one (1) year if the candidate holds a design degree from an accredited institution)
  • Minimum of 16 hours of continuing education or attendance of CRD certification preparatory course. 

Decide how to prepare for your exam

Before applying for certification, decide which of the following exam preparation paths fits your schedule and learning style:

  • CRD Online Certification Preparatory Course – Comprehensive, instructor-led, 9-week online class (95%+ of candidates select this option)
    • You will be able to enroll in the CLC online preparatory course as part of your certification application.
    • You must enroll in certification in order to enroll in the preparatory course.
  • In-Person Local NARI Chapter Courses – Preparatory classes may be offered in person by select NARI chapters (check with your local NARI chapter for availability)
  • Self-Study – Use the program study materials provided upon enrollment to prepare for the exam.

Apply for certification

  • Submit an online certification application demonstrating compliance with the prerequisites of the CRD certification.
  • You will be able to enroll in a preparatory course via the certification application.
  • Certification and preparatory course fees are due at the time of application.

All applications are carefully reviewed by NARI Certification staff to confirm eligibility.

Apply for Certification and Prep Course

Take your certification exam

After you have enrolled in certification and attended the preparatory course or self-studied, you must complete and pass a 150 question, 3-hour, multiple choice, online exam proctored by a live online proctor to ensure examination integrity. 

You can review the exam schedule and more detailed examination information here.

You have two years from the time you enroll in certification to take and pass your exam. 

You get three tries at passing your certification exam. Your first try is included in your initial certification fee but a $50 retest fee applies if you need to retake your exam. 

If you are unable to pass your exam within two years of your initial enrollment in the certification and within three tries, you will have to re-enroll in the certification program and pay the certification fee again, if you wish to continue to pursue the certification.

 

Don't forget to renew your certification

Certification is an ongoing commitment. You must renew your certification annually prior to its expiration date.

CRD Renewal Requirements

  • 10 hours of continuing education (10 CEUs) earned within the 12 months preceding your certification expiration date.
  • Completion of the online CRD renewal application
  • Payment of your CRD certification renewal fee

Check out NARI's On-Demand Educational Library for continuing education at your fingertips.

CRD Certification Renewal Fee

NARI Member Renewal Fee: $94

Non-Member Renewal Fee: $188

Benefits of CRD Certification

Successful remodeling design requires a deep understanding of functionality, aesthetics, and constructability—skills that elevate project outcomes and client satisfaction. Earning the CRD certification positions you as a knowledgeable, trusted professional with the expertise to design solutions that are both beautiful and buildable.

  • Advance your design expertise – Strengthen your ability to create innovative, functional, and practical remodeling designs that meet client needs and project goals.
  • Lead with confidence – Establish yourself as a design leader capable of developing and managing complex remodeling projects from concept to completion.
  • Demonstrate professionalism and integrity – Validate your dedication to meeting company goals and enhancing client satisfaction through recognized certification.
  • Stand out in the marketplace – Differentiate yourself in a competitive industry and enhance your professional visibility.
  • Invest in your professional growth – Expand your design and project management skill set to build a successful, long-term career in remodeling.

Certification Fees

Employees of NARI member companies receive significant discounts on NARI certification fees, prep course fees, and annual certification renewal fees.

  Certification Fee Online Prep Course Fee Annual Renewal Fee
NARI Member $500 $349 $94
Non-Member $700 $499 $188
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