Is there an age limit to become a home inspector?

State rules read

18

Set the minimum at 18

16

Set an upper age limit

None

This table lists the minimum age in each state whose rule this site read on October 29, 2026. Each state name links to its full page.

A state that's missing from the table wasn't read for this page. That doesn't mean it has no age rule. For every state's requirements, see the home inspector license requirements by state.

None of these 18 rules sets a maximum age. Indiana's rules do mention retiring, but only to let a licensee put a license on retired status.

The exam is the same. EBPHI's FAQ, its registration page, and the PSI candidate bulletin name no age rule. EBPHI's test policies list age among the things it does not discriminate on. On test day, they ask for two forms of signature ID, one with a photo.

In most of these states, 18 is enough to apply. Mississippi's law is the outlier at 21. Nevada's rule, NAC 645D.180, takes an application at 17 but won't issue the certificate until 18.

Washington has no age rule for the license. Its Department of Licensing FAQ adds that you must be 18 to enter a legal contract, under RCW 26.28.015(4).

Insurance comes with the license at any age. In Arizona, the statute wants errors and omissions (E&O) coverage of $200,000 in the aggregate, or a $25,000 bond, before your first paid inspection. Mississippi asks for $250,000 each of general liability and E&O.

Trust from real estate agents takes time to build. Russ Motyko's estimate is 12 to 24 months of steady work before agent referrals become a dependable share of the business. For how to build those relationships, see how home inspectors get referrals from real estate agents.

The rules won't stop you. The physical work is the real question. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says inspectors should be physically fit, and the job means crawlspaces, ladders, and hot attics. For what that looks like and the gear that helps, see is being a home inspector physically demanding.

Part-time is one way in. In Russ's published view, part-time inspecting fits people who are semi-retired or on reduced hours. Buyers often need the inspection on a weekday and on short notice, so a flexible daytime schedule matters.

A second career doesn't need a construction past. None of the 12 licensing states this site checked for that question requires construction work first. For more, see becoming a home inspector with no construction experience. For veterans, the GI Bill can repay the NHIE fee. For how, see becoming a home inspector after the military.