Kentucky requires the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Licensing is handled by the Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors. Pre-licensing education: 64 hours through a board-approved program (including 16 hours of lab and field inspection time); distance education is not accepted for pre-licensing. Insurance: General liability insurance of $250,000.
Kentucky requirements at a glance
| Exam | National Home Inspector Examination |
|---|---|
| License type | Home inspector |
| Pre-licensing education | 64 hours through a board-approved program (including 16 hours of lab and field inspection time); distance education is not accepted for pre-licensing. |
| Field training / experience | Three unpaid inspections with written reports as part of the pre-license course. |
| Insurance | General liability insurance of $250,000. |
| Continuing education | 28 hours every two years (14 per year); distance CE is allowed. |
Other requirements
- At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
- Inspections follow ASHI, NAHI or InterNACHI standards of practice.
Who regulates home inspectors in Kentucky
Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors
(502) 782-0563 · tatum.herrington@ky.gov
How to prepare for the exam in Kentucky
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 Kentucky Board of Home Inspectors before you apply.