Blog

Electrical inspectors have the all-important job of keeping people safe in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial structures. They do this by ensuring the electrical systems that power those buildings function well and meet certain standards. It’s a rewarding career, but it's also one that requires specific knowledge and good judgment.

For this reason, the state of Michigan requires electrical inspectors to hold a license. The requirements to obtain this license prove that an electrical inspector has what it takes to maintain safety and uphold standards. 

If you’re trying to get into this career, it’s important to understand the experience and examination requirements for getting your license and working in the field.

What Can Those With Electrical Inspector and Plan Reviewer Licenses Do?

Electrical inspectors and plan reviewers work closely together to ensure building safety. 

Licensed plan reviewers begin their work before the installation by looking over plans, specifications, and drawings for proposed electrical installations and projects. Their job is to determine whether the systems are code-compliant and to spot safety issues before any work begins. 

On the other hand, licensed electrical inspectors are responsible for:

• Examining installed electrical systems in homes as well as commercial and industrial buildings
• Determining whether the electrical system complies with established electrical codes and regulations
• Ensuring those systems are safe and functioning properly

If properly licensed, the same person can perform both jobs.

Electrical Inspector and Plan Reviewer Licensing Requirements

Electrical inspector and plan reviewer licenses are not for those at the entry level of their careers. To obtain these licenses, you must already be licensed as an electrical journeyman or a master electrician.

Once you have gathered your paperwork, you must submit copies of your licenses and evidence of your National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or International Code Council (ICC) certifications. These certifications show your commitment to the profession and to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of others. 

The electrical inspector exam is open book and spans 120 minutes. There are 84 questions on the exam, and you must have a passing score of 75% (63 correct questions) to pass. The same goes for the electrical plan reviewer exam. Both tests cover the following topics:

• The Skilled Trades Regulation Act
• Current electrical code rules
• The Stille-DeRossett-Hale Single State Construction Code Act
• MCL 125.1504, MCL 125.1508a, and theories related to those codes

You must provide proof that you have passed the exams before you can obtain your license. You must also pay a $75 fee.

Preparation Is the Key to First-Time Success on Your Exam

As someone who already holds an electrical journeyman or master electrician license, you recognize the importance of passing your exam the first time. 

RocketCert’s exam prep courses are written by industry professionals who understand the practical knowledge and insights you need to accomplish that goal. You can get access to books and an online curriculum complete with math calculations as well as guides, quizzes, test-taking tips, and a practice exam to help you put it all together. 

Don’t leave your Michigan electrical inspector license to chance. Contact us today to take control of your future with world-class exam prep from RocketCert.