How to become a home inspector in Washington

To become a home inspector in Washington, you finish a 120-hour course and 40 hours of field training, then pass a two-part exam: the NHIE and 24 Washington questions. The exam costs $300 and the first license costs $720.

NHIE required, plus a state sectionChecked on October 4, 2026

Washington at a glance

Washington at a glance
Item	Washington
Exam	Two parts through PSI: the NHIE (175 questions, 3 hours) and a Washington section (24 questions, 1 hour). You need a scaled 70 on each.
Education	A 120-hour Fundamentals of Home Inspection course approved by the board
Field work	40 hours of field training with at least 5 complete inspections and written reports
Insurance	None required
Exam fee	$300 for both parts. Retakes are $250 for the national part and $125 for the state part.
First license	$720
Renewal	$415 every 2 years, with 24 hours of continuing education

The licensing body is the Washington State Department of Licensing, Home Inspector Program. Fees and rules change, so check them with the state before you pay for anything.

Steps to a Washington license

Finish the 120-hour course.
Finish 40 hours of field training and 5 complete inspections with a mentor.
Apply for the exam online through SecureAccess Washington, or by mail.
Wait for the approval from PSI with your ID number.
Schedule and pass both parts of the exam. You pay the $300 fee to PSI when you schedule.
Apply for the license online or by mail with your passing report and the $720 fee.

Field training rules changed in 2026

Since August 8, 2026, the inspector who supervises your field training needs 4 years of licensure. Travel, meals, and report writing don't count toward the 40 hours.

The course and the field training have to be done within two years before you apply for the exam.

Fees may go up in 2027

The Department of Licensing has proposed new fees starting January 1, 2027: $331 for the exam, $865 for the first license, $519 to renew, and a new $35 application fee. A hearing is set for October 27, 2026, so these are not final.

More on the exam

Questions people ask

Does Washington use the NHIE?

Yes. The Washington exam has two parts. The national part is the NHIE, with 175 questions, and the state part has 24 questions on Washington law and rules.

Do Washington home inspectors need insurance?

No. The Department of Licensing says no insurance or bond is required to be a home inspector.

Is there an age requirement in Washington?

No. The Department of Licensing says there is no age requirement to become a licensed home inspector.

See where you stand

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