Thinking about turning your passion for home design into a career? Learning how to become an interior decorator is more accessible than most people think. You do not necessarily need a four-year degree. You do not need a license in most U.S. states. What you do need is talent, training, and drive.
What Does an Interior Decorator Do?
Before we get into the path, let us clear up what does an interior decorator do. A decorator transforms the look and feel of a space by selecting colors, furniture, art, textiles, and accessories. Unlike an interior designer, they do not typically handle structural or architectural changes.
What is an interior decorator? Simply put, they are visual problem solvers. They look at a room and figure out how to make it look its best within the client’s budget and taste.
Do You Need a Degree to Be an Interior Decorator?
Do you need a degree to be an interior decorator? The short answer is no — at least not a traditional four-year degree. Many successful decorators are self-taught or have completed short certificate programs. However, formal training can give you a competitive edge, especially in larger markets.
Some decorators complete associate degrees or certificate programs at community colleges or trade schools. If you want to know how to become an interior decorator without a degree, focus on building a strong portfolio, taking online courses, and working with established decorators as an apprentice or assistant.
Do You Need a License to Be an Interior Decorator?
Do you need a license to be an interior decorator? In most U.S. states, no license is required to work as an interior decorator (as opposed to an interior designer, which is licensed in some states). However, joining professional associations and earning certifications can greatly enhance your credibility.
Interior Design and Decorating Schools
If you prefer structured learning, interior design and decorating schools offer programs that cover color theory, space planning, furniture history, and client management. Top schools include:
- New York School of Interior Design (NYSID)
- Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
- Academy of Art University (San Francisco)
- FIDM — Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
- Online programs through Decorating and Design School
Interior decoration and design courses are also widely available online through platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning — many for under $50.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Interior Decorator?
How long does it take to become an interior decorator? It depends on your path:
| Path | Time to Complete | Cost Range |
| Self-taught with online courses | 6 months – 1 year | $200 – $2,000 |
| Certificate program | 6 – 12 months | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Associate degree | 2 years | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Bachelor’s degree | 4 years | $40,000 – $100,000+ |
| Apprenticeship | 1 – 3 years | Paid position |
Interior Decorator Apprenticeship
An interior decorator apprenticeship is one of the best ways to learn the trade. You work directly under an experienced decorator, learning how to handle clients, source materials, manage projects, and style spaces. Pay varies, but many apprenticeships offer stipends or hourly wages while you learn.
If you are looking for an interior decorator assistant position, this is effectively the same thing. Check job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Houzz Pro for interior decorator assistant jobs in your area.
Interior Decorator Assistant Jobs
Interior decorator assistant jobs are a great entry point. You assist with client meetings, shopping trips, vendor coordination, and on-site installations. Most assistants earn between $15 and $25 per hour. It is hands-on experience that no classroom can fully replicate.
Steps to Becoming an Interior Decorator
Here are the steps to becoming an interior decorator:
- Develop your eye — study design magazines, Pinterest, Instagram
- Take design courses online or in person
- Build a portfolio, even if it starts with your own home or free projects for friends
- Find an interior decorator apprenticeship or assistant job
- Join the Interior Design Society (IDS) or ASID
- Start taking on small paid clients
- Build your online presence with a website and social media
- Grow into larger projects as your reputation builds
Interior Decorator Association
Joining an interior decorator association gives you credibility, networking opportunities, and resources. The top associations in the U.S. include:
- American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
- Interior Design Society (IDS)
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ)
- International Interior Design Association (IIDA)
Is Interior Decorating a Good Career?
Is interior decorating a good career? For creative, organized, and people-oriented individuals, absolutely. The demand for decorators grows along with the housing market. People are always moving, renovating, and wanting fresh spaces.
Is interior decorator a good career path for long-term stability? Yes — especially if you develop a strong client base and referral network. Many decorators eventually open their own studios.
How to Start an Interior Decorating Business
How to start an interior decorating business and starting an interior decorating business both require the same fundamentals:
- Choose your business structure (LLC, sole proprietor)
- Register your business and get a business bank account
- Set your rates and create service packages
- Build a website with your portfolio
- Network with real estate agents, contractors, and furniture stores
- Get your first few clients and ask for testimonials
- Reinvest your earnings into marketing and tools
FAQs About Becoming an Interior Decorator
Can I become an interior decorator online?
Yes. Many decorators today start with online courses and build their portfolio virtually. Remote decorating is a growing service that lets you work with clients nationwide.
What skills do I need to be an interior decorator?
Color awareness, spatial thinking, strong communication, budgeting, and a genuine love for design are the core skills.
Key Takeaways
- No degree or license is required to become an interior decorator in most U.S. states
- Certificate programs and apprenticeships are excellent alternatives to four-year degrees
- Building a portfolio and networking are the fastest ways to launch your career
- Professional associations add credibility and open doors to bigger opportunities
Explore career and design resources at our Interior Design hub.
