New Jersey requires the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Licensing is handled by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (Home Inspection Advisory Committee). Pre-licensing education: 180 hours of pre-licensing education; distance education is not accepted. Insurance: $500,000 in insurance.
New Jersey requirements at a glance
| Exam | National Home Inspector Examination (or a committee-approved test) |
|---|---|
| License type | Home inspector |
| Pre-licensing education | 180 hours of pre-licensing education; distance education is not accepted. |
| Field training / experience | 40 hours of unpaid field inspections with a licensed inspector present (within the 180 hours), or 250 fee-paid inspections under supervision. |
| Insurance | $500,000 in insurance. |
| Continuing education | 40 hours per two-year renewal cycle. |
Other requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Who regulates home inspectors in New Jersey
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (Home Inspection Advisory Committee)
(973) 504-6460 · [email protected]
How to prepare for the exam in New Jersey
The NHIE is 200 multiple-choice questions (175 scored) with a 4-hour limit, and you need a scaled score of 500 to pass. It is weighted 70% Property Inspection, 20% Analysis & Reporting and 10% Professional Responsibilities, so weight your study the same way. Take a diagnostic practice test first, drill your weakest categories, and sit at least one full timed practice exam before test day.
Summarized from the state regulation summary published by the NHIE's exam board, checked October 2026. Licensing rules change, so confirm current requirements with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs (Home Inspection Advisory Committee) before you apply.