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Every state has its own rules regarding licensing and certifications for professionals in skilled trades, including electricians, plumbers, contractors, and so on. These requirements are intended to protect public safety by ensuring that professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs effectively. 

In the construction industry, professionals planning and overseeing projects must comply with building codes developed for safety purposes. Government agencies may ask construction code inspectors and plan reviewers to perform project inspections. Construction companies may also hire skilled consultants to help them with compliance. 

Of course, these professionals must prove their qualifications, and this is typically accomplished by taking a state exam. Some states may also accept certification from the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI). What is the NCPCCI, and how do you obtain a Building Inspector Certification? 

What Is NCPCCI? 

The NCPCCI consists of nationally recognized exams developed with input from:  

• A national model code organization 
• A national code enforcement organization 
• Representatives of state and municipal code enforcement jurisdictions 

There are several exams designed to assess technical knowledge and help professionals meet minimum standards. 

You can choose from a variety of exams focused on electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or other specializations. However, for a more comprehensive certification, you can select the 1A or 1B Building Inspector exam. 

Benefits of NCPCCI Certification 

The main benefit of obtaining NCPCCI certification is that it’s recognized by several states, including: 

• Indiana 
• Kentucky 
• Massachusetts 
• New Jersey 
• Ohio 
• Oklahoma 
• Virginia 

This means you may be able to apply for a license in participating states without taking state trade exams. You’ll still need to apply for licensure and meet all state requirements, which could include education and experience, proof of insurance, and other state exams (such as a Business & Law, for example). 

It’s important to review the requirements for your state, of course. However, if you plan to hold licenses in multiple states, NCPCCI certification could cover the trade exam portion so you don’t have to sit for numerous tests.  

In addition, you can now use an NCPCCI certification to obtain reciprocal International Code Council (ICC) certification in some cases. This could expand your reach even further. 

How to Obtain Building Inspector Certification 

Obtaining NCPCCI certification requires that you take an exam. There are no pre-qualifications for these tests, but you will still have to meet state qualifications to apply for a professional license. 

If you’re looking to become a building inspector, you’ll want to take either the 1A Building Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings Exam or the 1B Building Inspector General Exam. The 1A exam features 50 questions on topics like: 

• Final inspections 
• Footing and foundation inspections 
• Framing inspections 

The 1B Exam also has 50 questions covering topics like: 

• Fire safety inspections 
• Footing and foundation inspections 
• Life safety inspections 
• Structural inspections 

Both tests are open-book and allow two hours for completion. You must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass. 

With the right exam prep from RocketCert, you have the best opportunity to pass your NCPCCI exam on the first try. Contact us today to learn more.