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Code officials, inspectors, and plans examiners in Virginia require a mechanical code official license. Obtaining this license is an essential step in your career. While there is preparation to be done, the process of getting your license is straightforward with clearly set requirements. 

Mechanical Code Official Certification in Virginia 

Mechanical code officials in Virginia are regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). They operate the state certification program for code enforcement personnel and third-party inspection agents working under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. 

While local jurisdictions are in charge of hiring their staff, DHCD certification provides a clear baseline to ensure consistent and accurate enforcement statewide. The DHCD delivers instruction through the Virginia Building Code Academy (VBCA) with a core course that serves as a prerequisite for other certification courses. 

Choosing Your Certification Path 

Mechanical code official certifications in Virginia feature three distinct paths that apply to different functions. Residential inspectors focus primarily on single-family dwellings and other smaller properties. Commercial inspectors review a wider range of system types. There are also mechanical plans examiners who evaluate drawings and specs. 

You should choose the track that best aligns with your work requirements or future plans. Whether you’re inspecting homes, commercial properties, or focusing on submittals, selecting the proper certification is vital to ensure that your work is fully compliant. 

Completing Required VBCA Training 

You’ll need to enroll in and complete VBCA training. It’s easy to create an account through the DHCD’s online training and certification system. From there, you can register for the core module right away. You want to get this one done first, as other courses can’t be started until it's completed. 

During the core course, you’ll learn the fundamentals of inspection authority, documentation, and code administration. These important details support your everyday mechanical inspections. 

After the core course, you’ll complete additional modules aligned with your specific certification track. Residential inspectors learn about typical housing equipment and applicable clearances, venting, and safety checks. Commercial courses cover a variety of fire and energy provisions. 

Taking the Mechanical Code Official License Exam 

Once you’ve completed the required courses, you can apply to take an approved exam. The DHCD recognizes exams from the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Certification Program for Construction Code Inspectors (NCPCCI). 

Make sure to choose the corresponding exam for your track. For residential, that means MM1 or NCPCCI 4A, for commercial ICC M2 or NCPCCI 4B, and ICC M3 for mechanical plans examiners. 

From there, you can submit your DHCD certification application along with supporting training and exam documentation. Keep in mind that after approval, you’ll need to take 16 hours of continuing education every two years to keep your license, and there may be other ongoing maintenance requirements. 

Take the First Step Toward Your License 

Getting your Virginia mechanical code official license requires choosing your certification path, completing training, and passing the required exam. You can get started with RocketCert’s flexible online exam prep today and work toward obtaining your Virginia mechanical code official license.