Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Trades
Construction and Building Inspector Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for construction and building inspector in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Construction and Building Inspector in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must pass the structural pest inspector examination, take the Laws and Safety examination and take category examinations in the areas individual is to work in, submit proof of financial coverage or be employed by a state Department of Agriculture-approved structural pest inspector company, own or be employed by a business that has a structural pest inspector company license.
Exam and processing details
- pass the structural pest inspector examination, take the Laws and Safety examination and take category examinations in the areas individual is to work in, submit proof of financial coverage or be employed by a state Department of Agriculture-approved structural pest inspector company, own or be employed by a business that has a structural pest inspector company license
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Agriculture
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$89,360 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Construction and Building Inspector licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required pass the structural pest inspector examination, take the Laws and Safety examination and take category examinations in the areas individual is to work in, submit proof of financ....
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Agriculture and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $89,360, Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington earn 24% above the national median of $72,120. Washington ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$89,360Hourly estimate
$42.9624% above national median
Difference: +$17,240
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationConstruction and Building Inspector Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Construction and Building Inspector median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $101,160 |
| #2 | Alaska | $94,030 |
| #3 | Washington | $89,360 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $87,290 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $83,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Construction and Building Inspector licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Agriculture
1111 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA, 98504-2560
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $85,010 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $57,790 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Carpenter | $73,260 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Crane Operator | $96,870 | Degree required | 1-4 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Construction and Building Inspector in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Construction and Building Inspectors.
What education do you need to become a Construction and Building Inspector in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Construction and Building Inspector licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Construction and Building Inspector salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington is $89,360. Salaries range from $61,820 (10th percentile) to $121,000 (90th percentile).
How does the Construction and Building Inspector salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington earn 24% above the national median of $72,120, with a state median of $89,360.
How many Construction and Building Inspectors work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 2,960 Construction and Building Inspectors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Construction and Building Inspector license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Agriculture. Review agency details at http://agr.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Construction and Building Inspector license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.