West Virginia requires the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Licensing is handled by the West Virginia State Fire Marshal, Regulatory & Licensing Division. Pre-licensing education: 80 hours of instruction. Insurance: General liability insurance of at least $250,000.
West Virginia requirements at a glance
| Exam | National Home Inspector Examination |
|---|---|
| License type | Home inspector |
| Pre-licensing education | 80 hours of instruction. |
| Field training / experience | Not required. |
| Insurance | General liability insurance of at least $250,000. |
| Continuing education | 16 hours per annual renewal; distance CE is allowed. |
Other requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Who regulates home inspectors in West Virginia
West Virginia State Fire Marshal, Regulatory & Licensing Division
(304) 558-2191
How to prepare for the exam in West Virginia
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 West Virginia State Fire Marshal, Regulatory & Licensing Division before you apply.