Illinois requires the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Licensing is handled by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Real Estate. Pre-licensing education: 60 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved provider. Insurance: Not listed in EBPHI's summary.
Illinois requirements at a glance
| Exam | Illinois Home Inspector Examination, which includes the National Home Inspector Examination plus an Illinois law section |
|---|---|
| License type | Home inspector |
| Pre-licensing education | 60 hours of pre-licensing education from an approved provider. |
| Field training / experience | 40 hours of experience. |
| Insurance | Not listed in EBPHI's summary. |
| Continuing education | 12 hours per two-year renewal cycle (6 per year). |
Other requirements
- At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Who regulates home inspectors in Illinois
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Real Estate
(312) 814-4500 · fpr.realestate@illinois.gov
How to prepare for the exam in Illinois
The NHIE is 200 multiple-choice questions (175 scored) with a 4-hour limit, and you need a scaled score of 500 to pass. It is weighted 70% Property Inspection, 20% Analysis & Reporting and 10% Professional Responsibilities, so weight your study the same way. Take a diagnostic practice test first, drill your weakest categories, and sit at least one full timed practice exam before test day.
Summarized from the state regulation summary published by the NHIE's exam board, checked October 2026. Licensing rules change, so confirm current requirements with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Real Estate before you apply.