Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD)

The Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) is Canada's largest professional association for graphic designers. The RGD represents over 4,000 design practitioners, including firm owners, freelancers, managers, educators and students. The RGD was created by an Act of the Ontario Legislature (Bill Pr 56) to grant designers with the designation "Registered Graphic Designer" or "RGD," and is the only graphic design association in North America to have this type of legislation. The RGD designation is a signal of quality and competence. Successful candidates have met a rigorous set of standards and completed a test and portfolio interview, administered by an examination board. The RGD runs numerous industry events and initiatives, including DesignThinkers, Canada’s largest annual conference for graphic designers; Creative Earners, Canada’s comprehensive salary report for creatives; awards programs for branding, in-house design, social good design and students; advocacy against spec work and more. Through the RGD, Canadian designers exchange ideas, educate and inspire, set professional standards and build a strong, supportive community dedicated to advocating for the value of design.