Home Inspector License Requirements in North Carolina

Everything you need to know about getting your home inspector license in North Carolina. A state license is required.

How to Get Your Home Inspector License in North Carolina

Meet Basic Requirements

Be at least 18 years old with a valid ID. Pass a background check. Submit fingerprints.

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; ASHI or InterNACHI approved training program required

Pass the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Errors & Omissions insurance.

Submit Application

Apply to the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Pay the application and license fees.

Requirements Overview

Age Requirement	18+ years old
Experience	Completion of state-approved home inspection training program (typically 80-200 hours).
Education	High school diploma or GED; ASHI or InterNACHI approved training program required
Background Check	Required
Fingerprinting	Required

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee $90

License Fee $185

Exam Fee $205

Total Initial Cost $480

Renewal Fee (every 2 yrs) $115

Exam Information

Exam Name: National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)
Exam Provider: Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors
Exam Fee: $205

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

General LiabilityErrors & Omissions

Minimum Coverage:$250,000 per occurrence / $500,000 aggregate

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 24 hours
Period: Every 2 years

Reciprocity & Portability

North Carolina has license reciprocity agreements with the following states. This may allow you to transfer or expedite your license.

Alabama Florida Georgia Louisiana Mississippi South Carolina Tennessee

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a home inspector in North Carolina?

Yes, North Carolina requires a state license for home inspectors. The license is issued by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Working without a proper license can result in fines and legal penalties.

How much does a home inspector license cost in North Carolina?

The total initial cost for a home inspector license in North Carolina is approximately $480, which includes the application fee ($90), license fee ($185), and exam fee ($205). Renewal costs $115 every 2 years.

What exam do I need to pass for a home inspector license in North Carolina?

You must pass the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE), administered by Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors. The exam fee is $205.

Can I use my home inspector license from another state in North Carolina?

North Carolina has reciprocity or endorsement agreements with select states, which may allow you to waive the trade exam. However, you will typically still need to pass the state business and law exam, submit an application, and meet all other requirements. Contact the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors for specific details about transferring your license.