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ICC combination licenses are some of the most sought-after in the industry. They demonstrate your versatility and proficiency in a wide range of skills. Three prestigious and popular ICC designations are the C8, C5, and C3 licenses. Here’s what it takes to earn each one. 

Requirements for the ICC C3 Designation 

The ICC C3 combination plans examiner designation demonstrates your understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and building codes. While most state boards won’t issue licenses based on this designation, many counties and cities accept it.  

The ICC C3 is a designation that you can receive after passing the following four prerequisite exams: 

• Building Plans Examiner — B3 
• Electrical Plans Examiner – E3 
• Mechanical Plans Examiner — M3 
• Plumbing Plans Examiner — P3 

The Building Plans Examiner Exam consists of 80 questions. You’ll have 3.5 hours to complete the open-book exam.  

The Electrical Plans Examiner Exam consists of 70 questions. It is also open-book and lasts for 3.5 hours.  

The Mechanical Plans Examiner Exam consists of 50 questions. It is a two-hour exam delivered in an open-book format.  

The Plumbing Plans Examiner Exam is 60 questions. It is a 2.5-hour, open-book exam.  

Requirements for the ICC C5 Designation 

The ICC C5 commercial combination inspector designation also requires four prerequisite exams, which include: 

• Commercial Building Inspector — B2 
• Commercial Electrical Inspector — E2 
• Commercial Mechanical Inspector — M2 
• Commercial Plumbing Inspector — P2 

The Commercial Building Inspector Exam consists of 80 questions. You’ll have up to 3.5 hours to complete this open-book exam. 

The Commercial Electrical Inspector Exam consists of 80 questions. You’ll have up to 3.5 hours to complete this open-book exam.  

The Commercial Mechanical Inspector Exam consists of 50 questions. You’ll have up to 2 hours to complete this open-book exam. 

The Commercial Plumbing Inspector Exam consists of 60 questions. You’ll have up to 2.5 hours to complete this open-book exam.  

Requirements for the ICC C8 Designation 

The ICC C8 combination inspector designation requires you to obtain certifications in multiple disciplines, which include both residential and commercial skills. You’ll need to pass each of the four exams required for the C5 designation, as well as the following four residential exams: 

• Residential Building Inspector — B1 
• Residential Mechanical Inspector — M1 
• Residential Electrical Inspector — E1 
• Residential Plumbing Inspector — P1 

All four residential exams required for the C8 designation include 60 questions. They are open-book exams and each lasts for two hours.  

After you pass all eight exams, you will be eligible to receive the ICC combination inspector designation. It is one of the most versatile designations offered by the ICC, as it demonstrates your proficiency in inspecting all major systems present in residential and commercial structures.  

Obtain Your ICC C8, C5, or C3 License With RocketCert 

Are you ready to pursue your ICC C8, C5, or C3 designation? RocketCert offers exam prep bundles designed to promote information retention. Our user-friendly solutions include physical materials and digital content, allowing you to learn on your terms. Order your bundle today and start your path to an ICC combination designation.