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Mechanical inspectors are an important part of Indiana’s safety and compliance landscape. These professionals conduct inspections of mechanical systems and components in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.  

They ensure that systems are installed properly, safely, and in compliance with the Indiana Mechanical Code. Such systems could include HVAC units, boilers, and plumbing. Additionally, a mechanical inspector’s duties are varied. Their daily workload may involve maintaining records, issuing permits, and enforcing compliance.  

Before you can serve as a mechanical inspector, however, you must obtain a license from the Division of Fire and Building Safety (part of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security). How do you earn your license and begin practicing this skilled trade? 

Exam Requirements 

There are no experience requirements to become a mechanical inspector in Indiana, but you will have to pass several exams. This is made easier when you have both education and on-the-job experience related to the building industry, specifically in mechanical engineering. 

Indiana does not have state exams for mechanical inspectors. Instead, you will take three exams issued by the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI):  

• 4A Mechanical Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings 
• 4B Mechanical Inspector General 
• 4C Mechanical Inspector Plan Review 

NCPCCI exams are open-book, which means you can refer to certain source materials during testing. Each test consists of 50 questions, and you must answer at least 35 (70%) correctly to receive a passing score. You will have two hours to complete each exam. 

4A Mechanical Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings 

The 4A Mechanical Inspector One- and Two-Family Dwellings Exam features questions covering the following topics: 

• Appliances, equipment, and distribution systems 
• Chimneys, vents, and air combustion 
• Fuel systems 

The questions in this exam are based on information in the International Residential Code. 

4B Mechanical Inspector General 

The 4B Mechanical Inspector General Exam consists of questions about the following topics: 

• Air distribution systems and piping systems 
• Appliances and equipment 
• Venting, combustion air, and fuel systems 

The questions in this exam are based on information in the International Fuel Gas Code and the International Mechanical Code. 

4C Mechanical Inspector Plan Review 

The topics covered in the 4C Mechanical Inspector Plan Review Exam are similar to those covered in the 4B Mechanical Inspector General Exam. They are also based on information in the International Fuel Gas Code and the International Mechanical Code. 

The Best Way to Prepare for Exams 

If you’re a busy working professional, it’s difficult to attend the classes you need to prepare for exams. You need an exam prep program designed to work with your lifestyle, offering 24/7 online access to course materials so you can study at your own pace.  

Bundles that include reference books, practice exams, and guidance on highlighting and tabbing give you the tools and confidence you need to quickly access information during your exam. 

Are you interested in taking the next step in your career by obtaining a mechanical inspector license in Indiana? Contact RocketCert today to get started.