How to become a home inspector in Tennessee
To become a home inspector in Tennessee, you finish 90 hours of approved education, pass the NHIE, and carry $500,000 of general liability insurance plus errors and omissions coverage. The first application and license cost $300.
NHIE requiredChecked on October 4, 2026
Tennessee at a glance
| Item | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Exam | The NHIE. A passing score counts for 5 years. |
| Education | 90 hours approved by the commissioner |
| Field work | None required by the rule |
| Insurance | General liability of at least $500,000, plus errors and omissions insurance at limits you choose |
| Other | Age 18 and a high school diploma or equivalent |
| Fees | $300: a $100 application fee and a $200 license fee |
| Renewal | $200 every 2 years, with 32 hours of continuing education |
The licensing body is the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Home Inspector Licensing Program. Fees and rules change, so check them with the state before you pay for anything.
Steps to a Tennessee license
- Be at least 18.
- Get proof of insurance on an ACORD certificate, with the state program named as certificate holder and a real policy number.
- Finish 90 hours of approved training, and have your high school or GED certificate ready.
- Pass the NHIE.
- Apply online for the Initial Home Inspector License and pay $300.
The insurance rule
The $500,000 minimum applies to general liability only. The program says the statute sets no minimum for errors and omissions, so you pick the limits on that policy.
More on the exam
Questions people ask
Does Tennessee use the NHIE?
Yes. Tennessee's rule names the National Home Inspector Examination, and a passing score is good for five years.
How much insurance does a Tennessee home inspector need?
At least $500,000 of general liability, plus errors and omissions insurance. The state sets no minimum for the errors and omissions policy.
How long does a Tennessee home inspector license last?
Two years. Renewal costs $200 and takes 32 hours of continuing education.
See where you stand
Take a free 200 question practice exam, weighted like the NHIE, with your score by task.
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