Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP)
Ideal for experienced design professionals dedicated to developing design solutions for increased accessibility and functionality for clients of all ages and abilities.
Eligibility and Certification Process
Check if you're eligible
Before applying for UDCP certification, assure you meet the following certification requirements:
- Minimum of two (2) years continuous experience in the remodeling industry
- Minimum of 8 hours of continuing education or attendance of UDCP 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:
- UDCP Online Certification Preparatory Course – Comprehensive, instructor-led, 4-week online class (95%+ of candidates select this option)
- You will be able to enroll in the UDCP online preparatory course as part of your certification application.
- 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 UDCP 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.
Take your certification exam
After you have enrolled in certification and attended the preparatory course or self-studied, you must complete and pass a 90 question, 90-minute, 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.
UDCP 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.
UDCP Certification Renewal Fee
NARI Member Renewal Fee: $69
Non-Member Renewal Fee: $138
Benefits of UDCP Certification
As clients continue to show a preference to live in their homes as they age, the demand for universal design in residential remodeling is growing rapidly to accommodate multigenerational households and comfortable aging in place.
This expanding market offers remodeling professionals an opportunity to diversify their services, meet client needs, and strengthen their business through specialized expertise in accessibility and inclusive design.
- Deliver exceptional client value – Establish yourself as a trusted expert for clients seeking accessible, functional, and aesthetically pleasing remodeling solutions.
- Demonstrate professionalism and expertise – Validate your commitment to quality, ethical practice, and client satisfaction through recognized certification.
- Stand out in the marketplace – Differentiate yourself and your business by showcasing your specialized skills in universal design and inclusive remodeling.
- Expand your business opportunities – Broaden your client base and strengthen your competitive edge in a growing and in-demand segment of the remodeling industry.
- Invest in your professional growth – Build advanced design knowledge that enhances your career and contributes to long-term success 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 | $450 | $295 | $69 |
| Non-Member | $550 | $395 | $138 |