Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Trades
Home Inspector Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for home 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 Home Inspector in Washington
Estimated timeline: 1 monthCore 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 take an approved 120-hour Fundamentals of Home Inspection course and mentor with an experienced home inspector for 40 hours of field training, submit home inspector examination application and take the examination ($300 fee), and pay the $680 licensing fee.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- 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 Home 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.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Individuals must take an approved 120-hour Fundamentals of Home Inspection course and mentor with an experienced home inspector for 40 ho...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Licensing 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, Home Inspectors in Washington earn 24% above the national median of $72,120. Washington ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1 month.
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 compensationHome Inspector Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Home 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
Home 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 Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
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 |
| Construction and Building Inspector | $89,360 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Home Inspector in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1 month, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Home Inspectors in Washington?
Washington lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Home Inspectors.
What education do you need to become a Home Inspector in Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Home Inspector licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Home Inspector salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Home Inspectors in Washington is $89,360. Salaries range from $61,820 (10th percentile) to $121,000 (90th percentile).
How does the Home Inspector salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Home Inspectors in Washington earn 24% above the national median of $72,120, with a state median of $89,360.
How many Home Inspectors work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 2,960 Home Inspectors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Home 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 Home Inspectors in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.
How often do you renew a Home Inspector license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.