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You may already know about state licensing agencies and their requirements, including state trade and business exams. However, there are also national organizations that set standards and offer exams. These may be accepted as a substitute for trade exams in multiple states. 

The International Code Council (ICC) serves as a global resource for standards, codes, and building safety solutions in the construction industry. One of its many services is professional certification through the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI) Reciprocity Program. What is the NCPCCI, and what benefits do you stand to gain when you pass the NCPCCI exams? 

What Is the NCPCCI? 

The NCPCCI offers exams specifically for professionals interested in becoming construction code inspectors and plan reviewers. The nationally recognized exams, which are developed by a national model code organization, a national code enforcement organization, and representatives of state and municipal code enforcement jurisdictions, set the bar for testing standards. 

As a result, passing NCPCCI exams proves professional competency in your chosen area of expertise. Several states have recognized the value of these tests and allow for reciprocity, including: 

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

In other words, a passing score on an NCPCCI exam, or a certification earned through passing one or more exams, could potentially be substituted for a state trade examination. 

Exams for Trade Inspectors and Plan Reviewers 

The NCPCCI offers 15 exam categories for different types of building, electrical, fire, mechanical, plumbing, and elevator inspectors and plan reviewers. The primary benefit of taking these tests is that they may be accepted as a substitute for state trade exams when you’re seeking licensure. If you plan to work in multiple states, this could save you time and money. 

Passing certain exams will also earn you ICC certifications. For example, if you pass the 4A Mechanical Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings Exam, you can apply for an ICC M1 — residential mechanical inspector certification. If you pass the 4B Mechanical Inspector General Exam and the 4C Mechanical Inspector – Plan Review Exam, you can earn the ICC M3 — mechanical plans examiner certification. 

These certifications do not equate to state licenses on their own. You must work in a state where ICC exams and/or certifications count toward license requirements, and you must meet all other requirements, such as education, experience, and additional testing (like a Business & Law Exam).  

However, these certifications could get you a step closer to your professional goals. There are no pre-qualifications to take NCPCCI exams, but they’re designed to test professional knowledge, so exam prep is a good idea. 

Planning for Success With NCPCCI Exams 

Passing one or more NCPCCI exams is more than a feather in your cap; it’s a step toward certification and licensure. The right exam prep programs, featuring 24/7 online access for self-paced learning, are designed to support working professionals. 

Are you interested in passing NCPCCI exams, earning ICC certifications, and obtaining an inspector or plan reviewer license in one or more states? Contact RocketCert now to get started.