FAQs – Membership Questions?

We’ve Got You Covered!

Individual Members

Q: I was a member a while ago but haven’t renewed. Am I still a member?
A: No - your membership has lapsed. You’ll need to reapply by submitting a new application here.

Q: I used to be a member. How do I renew my membership?
A: We’re thrilled to welcome you back! Please submit your membership application here.

Q: I currently pay monthly via PayPal. Can I continue to do that?
A: We’ve moved to annual billing only. Please cancel your PayPal subscription and make a full annual payment by logging into your account here.

Group and Company Membership

Q: Do I need to renew my membership if my employer has paid for company membership?
A: If your employer (e.g. a college or university) has renewed their IDI company membership, your membership will automatically continue. If you’re unsure, you can check with the main contact on your account or alternatively, you can contact our Membership Services Executive, Jennifer Henderson, at info@idi-design.ie.

Q: My employer is a company member, but I can’t log in — my email isn’t recognised.
A: This usually means you haven’t been added as a member yet. Please contact our Membership Services Executive, Jennifer Henderson, at info@idi-design.ie to get set up, subject to approval from the fee payer.

Q: I’ve paid for company membership. How do my designers get access?
A: If your designers are already registered, please contact our Membership Services Executive, Jennifer Henderson and she will upgrade their membership.
If they’re new to IDI, send their names and email addresses to Jennifer at info@idi-design.ie, and she’ll set them up.

Q: How can my company become an IDI member?
A: At least one of your designers must first be an approved IDI member. Once that’s done, you can begin your company membership application. Learn more here.

Q: Can I get an invoice before paying for company membership?
A: Absolutely. Contact us and we’ll raise an invoice on your profile. Once it’s issued, you’ll be able to download it when logged in.

Approval Process

Q: Is there a fee to have my membership application reviewed?
A: Yes — a €50 non-refundable application fee applies to all new membership applications. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and review by the Professional Practice Committee. It is non-refundable, even if the application is not successful.

Q: Why does my membership application need to be reviewed by a committee?
A: To maintain the highest professional standards, all membership applications are reviewed by the IDI Professional Practice Committee. This process ensures that each applicant meets the criteria for IDI membership and upholds the values of the design profession in Ireland. It also helps protect the integrity and reputation of IDI and its members.

Q: Who is the IDI Professional Practice Committee?
A: The IDI Professional Practice Committee is a panel of experts who work across a range of design disciplines. They volunteer their time to carefully assess membership applications based on professional experience and qualifications. Their role is essential to ensuring that IDI membership remains a mark of quality and credibility in the design community.

Q: What happens after my application is approved by the committee? Am I a member at that point?
A: Not just yet. Once your application is approved by the IDI Professional Practice Committee, you’ll receive an invitation to join and complete your membership by paying the relevant fee.

For individual members, the first-year cost is €247 — this includes the €50 non-refundable application fee and the €197 annual membership fee.
Please note that €197 is the standard individual membership fee, and your renewal rate may vary depending on your membership category (e.g. Group, Company or College/ University Membership). You’ll find full details on membership fees on our website.

Q: What would result in my application not being approved?
A: Applications may not be approved if the required qualifications, professional experience, or supporting documentation do not meet the IDI’s membership criteria. In some cases, the committee may ask for further information or clarification before making a decision. If your application is not approved, you are welcome to reapply in the future once the necessary criteria have been met.

Students and Graduate Membership

Q: I’m a student or recent graduate — how do I join?
A:

• Students: Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed and enter the Graduate Awards.

• Recent Graduates: You can join as a Graduate Member for just €30/year. Please click here to join.

• When you're eligible, you can apply for full membership based on your qualifications and professional experience.

College/University Membership

Q: I became a member through my college’s membership. Do I need to renew each year?
A: If your institution has an active IDI membership, your membership will automatically continue. If you’re unsure, contact your college’s membership administrator.

Q: My college is an IDI member, but I’m not listed. How can I join?
A: Contact our Membership Services Executive, Jennifer Henderson, at info@idi-design.ie and she’ll create an account for you, subject to approval from your institution.

Q: I represent a college/university and want to join IDI — what’s the process?
A: Before applying, at least one staff member must be an approved IDI member.

Your institution must also:

• Offer full-time degree courses in design

• Be based in Ireland.

Still have questions?

We’re happy to help — just email us at: info@idi-design.ie