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It wasn’t long ago that electricity in homes was considered a luxury. Today, no one gives a second thought to flipping a switch and producing light, pushing a button to turn on the TV or make coffee, or plugging in phone chargers all over the house. 

Electricians who install and maintain these systems are essential service providers in a world that relies heavily on electricity to function. However, there are also professionals who ensure that electrical systems are safe, functional, and up to code. 

As an electrical inspector, you’ll be tasked with examining electrical systems, equipment, and components to identify potential hazards and code violations, enforce codes and standards, and maintain compliance records. First, however, you must obtain a license. 

Every state has its own requirements for licensure, often including some combination of education, experience, and state exams. What if you plan to work in multiple cities or states? In this case, you might benefit from national testing from an organization like the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI).  

NCPCCI Electrical Inspector Exams

The NCPCCI works with a national model code organization, a national code enforcement organization, and representatives of state and municipal code enforcement jurisdictions to develop trade exams that prove competency in line with national standards.  

While passing exams won’t automatically result in obtaining a license in the jurisdictions where you live and work, you may enjoy reciprocity for certain International Code Council (ICC) exams, and your national exam could replace a requirement for state or municipal testing. 

Professionals interested in starting a career as an electrical inspector can take either the 2A Electrical Inspector Exam or the 2B Electrical Inspector General Exam. What do these tests entail, and which is right for you? 

2A Electrical Inspector

With a 2A Electrical Inspector license, you are permitted to inspect electrical systems, equipment, and components specifically for one- and two-family dwellings. The open-book exam consists of 50 questions covering the following topics: 

• Final inspections 
• Footing and foundation inspections 
• Framing inspections 

You will have two hours to complete the test, and you must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly to pass. 

2B Electrical Inspector General

Professionals who obtain a 2B Electrical Inspector General license are permitted to inspect electrical systems in a broader range of structures, including commercial and industrial facilities. The exam for this designation features 50 questions on the following topics: 

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

You will have two hours to complete this open-book exam, and you must answer a minimum of 70% of the questions correctly to pass. 

Exam Prep That Makes a Difference

Preparing for an NCPCCI exam can feel daunting, but the right preparation makes all the difference. An online program designed for working professionals provides the convenience of self-paced learning on your schedule. 

Are you interested in taking the NCPCCI 2A Electrical Inspector or 2B Electrical Inspector General Exam? Contact RocketCert now to learn about available exam prep courses.