How to Become a Licensed Home Inspector in Nevada (Step-by-Step Guide)

Becoming a licensed home inspector in Nevada – officially an Inspector of Structures – involves meeting education, exam, and experience requirements set by the Nevada Real Estate Division (NRED). Nevada offers two main licensing paths for inspectors: a Certified Residential Inspector (for homes and residential structures) and a Certified General Inspector (which includes commercial buildings). Below is a comprehensive guide covering state licensing requirements, approved training, exams, application steps, background checks, insurance, timelines, costs, renewal, and how Nevada’s process compares to other states.

Basic State Licensing Requirements (Nevada)

Nevada strictly regulates home inspectors, requiring a combination of coursework, field experience, and exams. At a high level, the requirements to become a Nevada certified residential inspector include :

• Minimum Education: 40 hours of approved pre-licensing instruction (in-person or live-stream; pure self-paced online study is not accepted ).
• Field Experience: Observation of at least 25 home inspections conducted by a certified general or master inspector (or completion of an approved “25 inspections” field training course) .
• Examination: Passing an inspection exam approved by the state – Nevada uses the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) .
• Background Check: Fingerprinting and a background check (fingerprint cards from an approved vendor, with results valid 6 months) .
• Insurance: Proof of $100,000 in Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance and $100,000 in general liability insurance .
• Application & Fee: Submission of the application form with required documents and a licensing fee of $365 .

Prerequisites: Nevada requires applicants to have a high school diploma or GED . There is no state-mandated minimum age beyond the standard 18 years for contracting. You do not need a construction background by law, but construction experience can be helpful and is common in this field.

Below we break these requirements into actionable steps and detail the process for both residential and commercial (general) inspector paths.

Step 1: Complete Required Education (State-Approved Training)

Enroll in a Pre-Licensing Course (40 Hours). Nevada requires at least 40 hours of classroom instruction in home inspection subjects for a residential inspector license . This training must be from a Nevada-approved provider – pure online-only courses are not accepted for pre-licensing (distance learning is generally not allowed for the 40-hour requirement in Nevada ). You can take the course in a traditional classroom or via live webinar if offered by the provider.

• Approved Education Providers: The NRED maintains a list of approved courses and schools. Examples include Inspection Certification Associates (ICA), American Home Inspectors Training (AHIT), InterNACHI, and local schools like Key Realty School in Las Vegas. Ensure the course is approved for Nevada Inspector of Structures pre-licensing – some providers offer a specific Nevada Structural Inspection course (e.g. 40-hour residential course) .
• Topics Covered: Courses will cover the major systems of a home (structure, roofing, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, etc.), inspection standards, report writing, Nevada specific laws, and ethics. Nevada’s syllabus may align with national standards (such as ASHI or InterNACHI standards of practice) and include state-specific regulations.
• Higher License Levels: If you eventually plan to inspect commercial properties, note that Nevada’s advanced licenses require more education. Certified General Inspector candidates need 50 hours, and Certified Master Inspector candidates need 60 hours of approved instruction . You can complete these additional hours later when pursuing those upgrades.

Expected Time: A 40-hour course can be completed in about one week of full-time classes. Some schools offer it over a few weekends or evenings. Scheduling will depend on the provider’s offerings (for example, one might do five 8-hour days or spread it over several weeks).

Cost: Tuition for a 40-hour home inspector course in Nevada typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 (varies by provider and format). Some comprehensive packages (including exam prep and extra training) may cost more. Be sure to budget for this training cost as part of your licensing expenses.

Step 2: Gain Field Experience (25 Inspection Observations)

Complete 25 Supervised Inspections. In Nevada, beyond classroom training, you must obtain hands-on experience by observing 25 home inspections in the field . There are two ways to fulfill this requirement:

• Ride-Alongs: Arrange to observe 25 actual inspections conducted by a Nevada Certified General or Certified Master Inspector. You’ll shadow the licensed inspector during real home inspections, watching how they examine each component and write reports. The supervising inspector must hold a higher certification (general or master) and will need to verify your participation. Keep a log of each inspection (date, property, and supervising inspector’s info) – the state provides a log form to document your 25 observations .
• 25-Inspection Course: Alternatively, complete an approved “25 inspections” practical course . Some training schools offer a structured field training program that simulates or includes 25 supervised inspections. For example, certain programs will take students through inspections of multiple homes with an instructor (this can be useful if you don’t have a mentor to ride along with). Be sure any such course is approved by NRED as equivalent to the 25 observation requirement.

After completing the 25 inspections, submit the inspection log (or course completion certificate) with your license application . This proves to the state that you have real-world exposure to home inspections and can produce a credible inspection report.

Expected Time: The time to complete 25 observations can vary. If doing ride-alongs, it depends on how quickly you can schedule them with a mentor. It could take several weeks up to a few months. For instance, if you can attend 2–3 inspections per week, it might take ~2 months. Intensive field courses might accomplish the requirement in a much shorter timeframe (e.g. one or two weeks of dedicated field training). Plan for at least 1–3 months to gain the required field experience, factoring in scheduling logistics.

Cost: If you go the ride-along route, there’s usually no formal cost (aside from perhaps compensating your mentoring inspector for their time or travel). Networking through local inspector associations can help find willing mentors. If you choose a formal field training program, costs can range from a few hundred up to ~$1,000, depending on the provider. Some comprehensive training packages include the field inspection component in the overall price.

Step 3: Pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE)

Study for and pass the required exam. Nevada uses the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) as the certification exam for inspectors . This is a nationally recognized test administered by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors. Key details about the exam:

• Exam Format: The NHIE is a proctored, multiple-choice exam with 200 questions covering all aspects of home inspection knowledge (structural, systems, standards of practice, reporting, ethics, etc.). You are given about 4 hours to complete it. It is a rigorous exam designed to gauge competency in the field.
• Exam Registration: In Nevada, you’ll register to take the NHIE through an authorized testing service (PSI is a common test provider for the NHIE). You can find the registration link via the NHIE website or NRED’s resources. Exams are typically offered by appointment at testing centers (locations in Las Vegas, Reno, etc., or possibly via approved remote proctoring if available).
• Cost: The NHIE costs $225 per attempt in most states , including Nevada. You must pay this fee when you schedule the exam, and if you need to retake it, you’ll pay the fee again for each attempt.
• Preparation: It’s highly recommended to study thoroughly before attempting the NHIE. Use your 40-hour course material as a foundation. Many candidates also use exam prep resources like practice question banks, study guides (the NHIE has official study guide books), or take online practice exams. Some training providers include NHIE prep modules or workshops. Nevada’s rule requires that your education include a proctored final exam as well , which helps prepare you for the licensing exam format.
• Passing Score: The NHIE is scored on a scale (200-800, with 500 as the typical passing cut-off). If you pass, you’ll receive a passing certificate or score report. If you fail, you must wait at least 30 days to retake it (and pay the fee again) – prepare accordingly so you can pass on the first try .

When you pass the exam, be sure to save the official score report or certificate. Nevada requires you to submit proof of passing the “Inspector of Structures examination” with your application, and it must be dated within the last 12 months . (If more than 12 months pass after your exam without getting licensed, you may need to retest.)

Expected Time: Prepare to spend a few weeks studying after your course. Timeline: If you schedule the exam soon after completing training, you could be ready within 1–2 months from finishing your 40-hour course. Exam results are often given immediately at the testing center. Passing the exam is a major milestone – at this point you’ll have the education, experience, and exam completed, and can proceed to the final administrative steps.

Step 4: Undergo Fingerprinting and Background Check

Complete your fingerprinting early, as processing can take some time. Nevada conducts a criminal background check on all home inspector applicants to ensure public safety. Here’s what to do:

• Fingerprinting: Obtain fingerprints via an approved method. Nevada provides a Fingerprint Background Waiver (Form 619) and a list of approved fingerprint vendors . You will either get ink fingerprint cards or electronic LiveScan prints sent to the Nevada Department of Public Safety and FBI. You must sign the waiver form and include it with your application, acknowledging the background check.
• Where to Fingerprint: Approved vendors include law enforcement agencies or private fingerprint services in Nevada that are certified by the state. Check the NRED website for the current list (Form 619). If you’re out-of-state, you may request fingerprint cards to take to a local police department, but ensure they are done on the correct cards.
• Timing: Fingerprints “expire” after 6 months , meaning the background check results are considered valid for 6 months. Plan to do this relatively close to when you will submit your license application so that your prints are current. It might be wise to get fingerprinted immediately after passing your exam. Background processing can take a few days to a few weeks.
• Background Criteria: Nevada’s regulations (NRS 645D) generally disqualify applicants for certain felony convictions or crimes involving fraud or moral turpitude, unless sufficient time has passed or rehabilitation is shown. Minor offenses typically are not an issue. Be truthful on your application about any criminal history; the background check will report records. If you have prior convictions, you may need to provide additional documentation or wait out any required period.

Cost: Fingerprinting services typically cost around $50–$70. This often includes the fee for the state and FBI background check processing. (The fee may be paid to the vendor or via money order to the state – follow the instructions on Form 619.)

Expected Time: Actual fingerprinting is quick (10–15 minutes at a vendor). The background check results might take anywhere from a few days up to several weeks. It’s often done within 1–3 weeks. You do not need to wait for the results before applying – you’ll submit the fingerprint receipt and waiver, and the Division will receive the report directly.

Step 5: Obtain Required Insurance (E&O and Liability)

Before you can get licensed, Nevada requires proof that you carry insurance coverage for your home inspection activities . Specifically, you must have:

• Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Minimum $100,000 coverage. E&O insurance is professional liability coverage that protects you if you’re accused of negligence or mistakes in your inspection that lead to a client’s financial loss .
• General Liability Insurance: Minimum $100,000 coverage. General liability covers bodily injury or property damage that might occur during an inspection (for example, if you accidentally damage something at the property or someone is injured) .

When you apply, you’ll need to submit a certificate of insurance or proof of coverage showing these minimums. The insurance must name you (the individual) as the insured – even if you work for a company, ensure you have personal coverage or are specifically named on a company policy .

Obtaining Insurance: Many insurance carriers offer policies for home inspectors. You can obtain quotes from specialized providers (InspectorPro, OREP, Elite MGA, etc.) or through membership associations (InterNACHI provides group rates for members). Typically, policies are annual. Often, insurers bundle E&O and general liability together.

Cost: Insurance cost varies based on coverage limits, your experience, and whether you want higher limits. For a new inspector meeting the $100k/$100k minimum, expect roughly $600–$1,200 per year in premiums. The cost can be higher if you choose greater coverage (many inspectors carry $250k or $500k E&O to be safe, which increases cost). You usually do not need to pay the full year up front; some insurers allow monthly payments.

Tip: Shop around for quotes while you are finishing your exam or waiting on the background check. Ensure the policy will be active by the time you submit your application. You will include the insurance declaration page or certificate with your application as proof.

Step 6: Submit Your License Application

With training, exam, experience, background check, and insurance in hand, you’re ready to apply for your Nevada home inspector license. Nevada refers to this as applying for a Certificate of Inspection of Structures. Follow these steps to file your application:

• Complete the Application Form: Use Form 573 (Application for Inspector of Structures Certification) . You can obtain this form from the NRED website or by contacting the Real Estate Division. Fill it out fully and honestly. It will ask for personal information, education details (list your 40-hour course provider and completion date), exam details (where/when you passed the NHIE), and your supervising inspector for the 25 inspections or course info. Don’t forget to sign and date the application.
• Attach All Required Documents: Along with the form, include:
  • Certificate of Completion for your 40-hour (or more) course.
  • Exam passing proof (NHIE score report, dated within last 12 months) .
  • Inspection Log or Course Certificate showing 25 inspections completed (signed by your supervising inspector or issued by the course instructor) .
  • Fingerprint Waiver (Form 619) and fingerprint receipt from the vendor.
  • Proof of Insurance ($100k E&O and $100k liability) – usually an ACORD certificate from your insurer naming you and showing active coverage.
  • High School Diploma/GED proof (if required – the application may ask for a copy to verify you meet the education prerequisite).
• Fees: Include the licensing fee of $365 (check or money order payable to the Nevada Real Estate Division) . This fee covers your initial certification and is typically non-refundable. Note: This $365 is separate from any exam fees or course tuition you paid; it’s the state’s fee to issue the license.
• Submit the Application: Nevada may allow applications by mail or in person. Currently, applications are often mailed to the NRED office (in Las Vegas at 3300 W. Sahara Ave, or check the form for the exact address). Double-check if any components can be done online – as of now, original inspector applications are usually paper-based. Make a copy of your entire packet for your records. If mailing, use a traceable method to confirm delivery.
• Processing Time: Once received, the Real Estate Division will review your application. If everything is in order and background check is clear, they will issue your Certificate of Inspection (license). Processing can take a couple of weeks. You may contact the Division to check status if you haven’t heard back in e.g. 2–3 weeks. When approved, you should receive your certificate and license number.

Tip: Ensure all information is complete to avoid delays. Any missing piece (e.g. forgotten insurance proof or incomplete log) will result in the Division contacting you for clarification, which will prolong the process. It’s wise to use the application checklist and double-check each requirement against what you’re enclosing.

After approval, you will be a Nevada Certified Residential Inspector – congratulations! You can now legally perform home inspections on residential properties (1-4 units) in Nevada for a fee. Keep your license certificate handy because you may need to show your license number on reports and advertising per state regulation.

Expected Timeline: From the point of submitting your application, expect roughly 2–4 weeks to receive your license (assuming all requirements were met). In some cases, it can be faster, especially if no background issues. Overall, if we tally the previous stages: 40-hr training (~1 week), 25 inspections (~4–8 weeks), exam prep and scheduling (~2–4 weeks), application processing (~3 weeks), the total timeline to become licensed could be around 3 to 4 months with efficient progress. More conservative estimates put it at 4–6 months if scheduling or availability is limited. Plan accordingly; individual experiences vary.

Step 7: (Optional) Upgrade to Certified General Inspector for Commercial Inspections

Once you have your residential inspector license, you may later pursue the Certified General Inspector certification if you wish to inspect commercial buildings or larger multi-unit properties. Nevada’s general inspector is essentially an advanced license that permits you to inspect any structure, including commercial and industrial properties, whereas the residential certification limits you to residential (typically 1-4 unit dwellings).

How to Qualify as a Certified General Inspector: This is not an entry-level license – it builds on your experience as a residential inspector. The requirements are more extensive :

• Experience Requirements: You must first complete at least 200 paid inspections as a certified residential inspector . These are inspections you conduct on your own license after getting certified. Out of those 200 inspections, at least 25 must be on commercial structures or buildings with more than 4 residential units (i.e. apartment buildings, etc.) . Essentially, you need to get a mix of experience that includes some commercial properties under your belt.
• Education: Complete an additional 50 hours of approved classroom instruction related to structural inspections . (If you only did 40 hours initially, you’ll need 10 more hours; many inspectors take a 50-hour general inspector course or additional modules on commercial inspections and advanced topics to satisfy this total.)
• Commercial Supervision: You also must perform at least 3 commercial inspections under the supervision of a Certified Master Inspector . The master inspector will evaluate your work and sign off on a state-provided form for each of those three inspections. This step is to ensure you can handle complex commercial systems.
• Examination: Nevada uses the same Inspector of Structures exam for all levels, so if you already passed the NHIE, you may not need a new exam. (The initial exam you took is “approved by the Division” for general as well.) However, ensure your exam results are still recent; if it’s been over 12 months or the Division has updated exam requirements, you might be asked to retake it. Generally, if you upgrade within a reasonable time, the exam will not be repeated.
• Application for Upgrade: You’ll submit a new application to upgrade to General Inspector, including logs of your 200 inspections, proof of the additional education hours, the 3 supervised commercial inspection evaluations, and a fee (the application fee for upgrade is typically the same order of magnitude as initial, e.g. a few hundred dollars). You must also maintain your E&O and liability insurance – likely at or above the same $100,000 level.

Timeframe: Achieving the General Inspector license is a longer-term goal. The limiting factor is completing 200 inspections as a residential inspector. If you are active and build your business, you might hit this number in a year or two. For others, it could take longer. Once you have the numbers, the process of upgrading (education + application) might take a couple of months.

Why Upgrade? If you plan to inspect commercial buildings (office buildings, retail, large multi-family complexes, etc.), Nevada law requires you to be a Certified General Inspector. It can also enhance your credibility and marketability, as it reflects a higher level of verified experience. Some inspectors choose to remain residential specialists, which is perfectly fine; upgrading is optional based on your career goals.

Step 8: Maintaining Your License – Renewal & Continuing Education

Congratulations, you are now licensed! But the journey doesn’t end here – you must renew your license every two years and stay current with continuing education:

• Renewal Cycle: Nevada home inspector certificates expire on a biennial cycle (every 2 years) . The expiration date is printed on your certificate. NRED will typically send a renewal notice, but it’s your responsibility to renew on time.

• Renewal Requirements: To renew an active Inspector of Structures certificate, you need to submit: (1) a Renewal Form (Form 578), (2) proof of 20 hours of continuing education (CE) completed in the past 2 years, (3) proof of current insurance (E&O and liability), and (4) the renewal fee of $265 .

• Continuing Education: Nevada requires 20 hours of CE every two years for inspectors . Within those 20 hours, certain topics are mandatory – at least 3 hours must be on safety practices (e.g. inspecting safely, personal protective equipment, etc.) and 2 hours must be on Nevada law or ethics . The remaining hours can be general inspection topics (technical subjects, new technology, etc.) approved for inspector CE. There are many CE courses available through inspector associations (InterNACHI, ASHI, etc.) and training providers. Notably, Nevada does allow online continuing education , so you can conveniently take CE courses via the internet, unlike pre-licensing which had to be live.

• Timely Renewal: It’s important to renew before your certificate expires. Nevada gives a short grace period of 60 days after expiration where you can late-renew with penalties. If you renew late (within 60 days after expiration), you’ll owe a $125 late fee in addition to the $265 renewal fee . If more than 60 days pass (but less than 1 year), you can reinstate by meeting additional CE (30 hours) and paying extra fees ($125 late + $20 reinstatement fee) . Beyond one year expired, you may have to reapply as a new applicant. Clearly, mark your calendar for renewal to avoid these headaches.

• License Upgrades at Renewal: If you achieved a Certified General or Master Inspector certification, the renewal requirements are essentially the same (20 hours CE, insurance, fee). You’ll need to include relevant advanced topics in your CE.

Keep records of all CE classes and insurance policies. When you renew, you might need to attach course completion certificates to prove your 20 hours. Nevada’s Real Estate Division may audit or request evidence of the courses.

Staying up-to-date through continuing education not only satisfies the law but also keeps your knowledge sharp – the home inspection industry evolves with new building practices, codes, and tools, so ongoing learning is crucial for your success and professionalism.

Job Outlook and Average Salary in Nevada

Entering the home inspection field in Nevada can be rewarding. Here’s a look at the career outlook and earnings:

• Job Outlook: Nevada’s strong real estate market – especially in areas like Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno – drives demand for home inspections. Whenever homes are bought or sold, inspectors are needed, so a booming housing market means more work. Nevada’s real estate market is currently robust, with many new and resale homes changing hands . This suggests steady opportunities for home inspectors. Nationally, home inspection as a profession tends to track the real estate industry’s health. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics groups home inspectors with “Construction and Building Inspectors” and projects about 15,000 job openings each year on average, mainly to replace retirees or those leaving the field . While the **national job growth is projected to be flat (0% from 2023 to 2033) **, this “no growth” forecast is mostly for governmental building inspectors. In the private sector (home inspectors), demand should remain stable or grow in active markets. In short, as long as properties are being bought, sold, or built in Nevada, licensed home inspectors will be in demand. Networking with real estate agents, joining inspector associations, and marketing your services can help you capture a share of the market.

• Average Salary (Nevada): Home inspectors in Nevada earn fees per inspection that typically range from $300 to $500 or more, depending on the property and scope. Over a year, this translates to a solid income if you perform a high volume of inspections. According to industry data, the average annual salary for a home inspector in Nevada is around $67,000 . This corresponds to roughly $32–$35 per hour or about $350 per inspection on average. Some sources report Nevada inspectors earning slightly more; for example, one training organization cites an average of $72,000 per year ($34.66/hour) . Your actual income can vary widely based on how many inspections you do, your fee schedule, and your business expenses. Many inspectors are self-employed, so if you “hustle” and build a strong reputation, you could earn above the average by taking on more inspections or offering ancillary services (like radon testing, pool inspections, etc. for additional fees).

• Self-Employment vs. Employment: Most home inspectors operate as independent businesses, setting their own fees and schedules. This means income isn’t a fixed salary – it depends on your workload. In Nevada’s urban areas, a busy inspector might do 250+ inspections a year. At $400 each, that would be $100,000 gross revenue. On the other hand, if you only do a few a week, your income will be lower. Inspectors who partner with established multi-inspector firms might start with a moderate salary or per-inspection pay. As you gain experience (and possibly add the General Inspector license to inspect commercial properties), you can command higher fees. Also, market conditions matter – if home sales temporarily slow, inspection volume might dip, but when sales pick up, you could have more work than you can handle.

In summary, Nevada offers a promising market for home inspectors, with competitive earnings potential. The key is to establish your business, maintain high quality and professionalism, and adapt to market changes. Many inspectors also find the work fulfilling – each day is different, and you play a crucial role in real estate transactions by helping clients understand the homes they’re buying.

Nevada vs. Other States: Licensing Requirements Comparison

Home inspector licensing varies widely across the United States. Nevada’s requirements are considered moderate – not the toughest, but more involved than states with no licensing. The table below compares Nevada’s licensing requirements with three other example states (Arizona, Florida, and California) to show how they stack up:

Requirement	Nevada (NV)	Arizona (AZ)	Florida (FL)	California (CA)
State Regulation	Yes – License (Inspector of Structures) required	Yes – License required (AZ BTR regulates)	Yes – License required (DBPR regulates)	No state license (unregulated) . Trade practice act prohibits unethical practices.
Pre-Licensing Education	40 hours (Residential) 50 hours (General) 60 hours (Master)	84 hours classroom training	120 hours approved training	No requirement (voluntary training recommended)
Field Experience	25 inspections observed (ride-along) required	30 parallel inspections (with a licensed inspector) required	None required by law (just complete course & exam)	No requirement (no license law)
Exam	Yes – NHIE (National Home Inspector Exam)	Yes – NHIE	Yes – Exam required (NHIE or state-approved exam)	No state exam (no license; many pursue certification through ASHI/CREIA)
Insurance Requirement	Yes: $100k E&O and $100k General Liability	Yes: $100k E&O per claim / $200k aggregate, OR $25k bond	Yes: $300k General Liability (no E&O required by law)	No mandate, but liability insurance recommended for business protection
Background Check	Yes – FBI Background via fingerprints	Yes – DPS Clearance Card & fingerprints	Yes – Background check & fingerprints	No (since no license; but background could be checked by employers)
License Term	2 years (biennial renewal)	1 year (annual renewal)	2 years (biennial, fixed 7/31 even years)	N/A
Continuing Education	20 hours every 2 years (incl. 3 hrs safety & 2 hrs law)	No CE required for renewal	14 hours every 2 years (after first renewal)	N/A (no license)
Initial License Fees	$365 application fee	$175 application fee	$125 application fee	N/A
Regulator / Board	Nevada Real Estate Division	AZ Board of Technical Registration	FL Dept. of Business & Professional Regulation	No state board for home inspectors (CA relies on trade orgs)

Comparison Highlights:

• Nevada vs Arizona: Both states require education, the NHIE, and field inspections. Arizona’s hours (84) and parallels (30) are higher than Nevada’s 40 hours and 25 ride-alongs. Arizona also mandates insurance (similar E&O levels or a bond) . Nevada and Arizona both have strong requirements, but Arizona’s is slightly more intensive upfront (and renews annually without CE, whereas Nevada renews every 2 years with CE).
• Nevada vs Florida: Florida requires 120 hours of education – three times Nevada’s hours – but does not require any ride-along inspections . Florida’s exam can be the NHIE or a state-specific exam, and it requires a higher liability insurance ($300k) but no compulsory E&O . Both states require fingerprints and have similar renewal periods (biennial, though Florida has 14 hours CE vs Nevada’s 20). Nevada’s 25 supervised inspections requirement is a key difference – Florida inspectors can be licensed without ever having done a real inspection (which is why many new Florida inspectors seek mentorship on their own).
• Nevada vs California: California stands out because it does not license home inspectors at all . Anyone can technically perform home inspections in CA without a state license, though they must follow a 1996 trade practice law that sets standards and prohibits certain unethical practices. Many California inspectors voluntarily get certified through organizations like CREIA or ASHI, but the barrier to entry is lower. In contrast, Nevada’s licensing ensures a minimum standard of competency and ethics through its requirements.

Every state has its own approach – some with very strict criteria (e.g. Texas or New York have extensive training/apprenticeship requirements), others with none. Nevada’s licensing process is moderate and ensures that inspectors start with a baseline of education and experience, which can enhance consumer protection. If you plan to operate in multiple states, always check each state’s current requirements, as laws can change.

Additional Tips and Resources

• Join Professional Associations: Consider joining groups like InterNACHI or ASHI or the Nevada Association of Certified Real Estate Inspectors (NACREI). These organizations offer support, additional training, marketing exposure, and sometimes required standards of practice and code of ethics to follow. Nevada law expects inspectors to adhere to professional standards (for instance, courts may look at ASHI or NACREI standards if questions of negligence arise) . Association membership can also often satisfy some continuing education requirements and keep you informed of industry trends.
• Business Setup: If you’ll be self-employed, register your business with the Nevada Secretary of State (e.g. form an LLC or sole proprietorship – Nevada’s SilverFlume online portal can help with licenses and business registration). Also check city or county requirements – for example, Clark County or city of Las Vegas may require a local business license to operate in their jurisdiction. (This is separate from your inspector certification.)
• Tools and Software: Invest in good inspection tools (flashlight, GFCI tester, ladder, etc.) and inspection report software. Many training courses include trial software. Modern, easy-to-read reports with photos will improve client satisfaction and referrals.
• Mentoring and Networking: The learning curve continues even after getting licensed. Try to partner with experienced inspectors or seek a mentor during your initial years. Shadowing a seasoned inspector on a few jobs (even after you’re licensed) can be invaluable for real-world tips. Networking with peers will also help you get leads or handle overflow jobs.
• Marketing Your Services: Build relationships with real estate agents, as they often refer homebuyers to inspectors. Create a professional website, have business cards, and possibly attend real estate industry events. Emphasize your Nevada certification and any credentials (if you’ve passed the NHIE, you can mention you are a “Nationally Certified Home Inspector”). Over time, client word-of-mouth will be a major asset – always aim for thorough, unbiased inspections and good client communication.

Becoming a licensed home inspector in Nevada requires an investment of time, effort, and money, but it sets you up in a profession where no two days are the same. You’ll be your own boss in many cases, helping people make informed decisions about their homes. By following the steps above and leveraging official resources and training, you can navigate the process smoothly and start your career as a Nevada home inspector.

Sources:

• Nevada Real Estate Division – Inspectors of Structures: Initial Requirements
• Nevada Administrative Code §645D – Inspector qualification rules
• Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors – Nevada Exam Info (NHIE)
• ATI Training – Nevada Home Inspector Steps
• AHIT Training – State Licensing Requirements (AZ & FL)
• Nevada Real Estate Division – Renewal Requirements
• ICA School – Nevada Home Inspector Average Salary
• Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook (Inspectors)
• Spectora – State-by-State Licensing Map (2025)