How to Become a Home Inspector in Washington (2026 Requirements)

Yes, you need a license to be a home inspector in Washington. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) Home Inspectors program issues this license. Anyone who examines the condition of a home for a fee must hold one.

The Washington Home Inspector License

Washington state requires a license for anyone performing home inspections for compensation. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) oversees the Home Inspectors program.

You must meet several requirements to get your license. These include specific training, field experience, and passing an exam. Always check the official DOL website for the most current information, as requirements can change.

Step-by-Step Licensing Requirements

Education

Your first step is to complete a board-approved 120-hour Fundamentals of Home Inspection course. This course covers all the essential knowledge areas for inspecting homes.

Field Training

After completing your 120-hour course, you need practical experience. You must mentor with an experienced home inspector. This field training requires 40 hours of observation and participation. You also need to complete 5 actual inspections under supervision.

Exam

Once your education and field training are complete, you will take a written exam. This exam has two parts: a national portion and a state portion. You schedule the exam through PSI. The exam fee is $300.

If you need to retake the exam, the fees are $300 for the full exam, $250 for only the national portion, and $125 for only the state portion. If you are an out-of-state inspector licensed for two or more years in a qualifying state, you only need to take the state portion of the exam.

Insurance

The Washington DOL pages do not list a specific insurance or bond requirement for home inspectors. However, it is wise business practice to carry Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. This protects you from potential liability claims.

Fees

There are several fees associated with getting your Washington home inspector license. The first license, which includes the application and initial license, costs $720. There is also a $5 fee if you want a printed copy of your license.

Maintaining Your License

Your Washington home inspector license expires every two years. The expiration date is on your birthday. You must renew your license before it expires to continue working legally.

To renew, you need to complete 24 hours of continuing education per two-year cycle. The renewal fee is $415. If you renew after your license expires, there is a $70 late fee.

Starting Your Home Inspection Business

Becoming a licensed home inspector involves upfront costs. Course prices vary by provider. You will pay $300 for the exam and $720 for your initial license. Remember to factor in costs for tools, transportation, and business insurance.

After getting your license, focus on getting your first inspections. Networking with real estate agents and marketing your services are key. You'll also need a reliable way to conduct inspections and create reports.

Modern inspectors often use mobile apps for their walkthroughs. These apps help capture photos, manage checklists, and record voice notes. Some platforms, like InspectAI, even use AI to write the inspection narrative from your walkthrough. That turns the multi-hour writing session into about 10 minutes of review. You can learn more about choosing the right tools for your business by reading our guide on how to choose home inspection software.

FAQ

What are the education requirements to become a home inspector in Washington?

You must complete a board-approved 120-hour Fundamentals of Home Inspection course.

Does Washington require field training for home inspectors?

Yes, after your course, you need 40 hours of field training and must complete 5 actual inspections under a mentor.

How much does the Washington home inspector exam cost?

The written exam, which includes national and state portions, costs $300 when scheduled through PSI.