Washington requires the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Licensing is handled by the Washington State Department of Licensing. Pre-licensing education: 120 hours of classroom instruction. Insurance: Not listed in EBPHI's summary.
Washington requirements at a glance
| Exam | National Home Inspector Examination with a Washington-specific section |
|---|---|
| License type | Home inspector |
| Pre-licensing education | 120 hours of classroom instruction. |
| Field training / experience | 40 hours of field training supervised by a Washington-licensed home inspector. |
| Insurance | Not listed in EBPHI's summary. |
| Continuing education | 24 hours every two years; distance CE is allowed. |
Other requirements
- Licenses renew every two years on your birthdate.
Who regulates home inspectors in Washington
Washington State Department of Licensing
(360) 664-6487 · DOLINTHomeInspectors@dol.wa.gov
How to prepare for the exam in Washington
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 Washington State Department of Licensing before you apply.