CA AB1796

Establishes the Licensed Commercial Interior Designer Practice Act to create state licensure and regulation of commercial interior designers by the California Architects Board, replacing the existing certification system through the California Council for Interior Design Certification

Expands the California Architects Board from 10 to 11 members by adding one licensed commercial interior designer position, with the Governor appointing this new member

Defines commercial interior design as planning, design, and oversight of interior spaces in commercial buildings, including preparation of plans, specifications, material selection, and construction observation, while excluding structural engineering and architecture services

Creates misdemeanor penalties for practicing commercial interior design without a license or falsely representing oneself as a licensed commercial interior designer, with fines and up to six months county jail imprisonment

Requires the board to establish eligibility requirements including examination (designating the National Council for Interior Design Qualification Examination) and education standards, and mandates written contracts between licensed commercial interior designers and clients that include project descriptions, compensation terms, and license information