Top 10 Electrical Inspector Certifications

Certifications for an electrical inspector are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. They show potential employers that the inspector is qualified to do the job, and that they have a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety regulations, and other related topics. Certified inspectors also tend to be more sought after than those without certifications because they have proven their competency through education and experience. This can give them an advantage when it comes to finding employment or negotiating salaries.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Electrical Inspectors and explain how they can help advance the career of an Electrical Inspector.

What are Electrical Inspector Certifications?

Electrical inspector certification is a specialized form of certification for individuals who are responsible for the inspection and approval of electrical installations. Electrical inspectors must have extensive knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and other local, state, or federal regulations governing electrical systems. They must also be familiar with the latest developments in electrical safety practices and technology.

Having an electrical inspector certification can help both individuals and businesses in several ways. First, having a certified inspector ensures that all work performed meets the highest standards of safety and quality. This can help to protect people from potential hazards caused by faulty or outdated wiring, as well as reduce the risk of fires or other electrical accidents. Second, having a certified inspector on staff demonstrates that a business takes safety seriously, which can give customers peace of mind when using their services. Finally, having a certified inspector can also make it easier for businesses to get permits from local authorities or insurance companies when needed.

Pro Tip: When considering an electrical inspector certification, make sure to research the certifying organization to ensure that it is nationally recognized and accepted by your local jurisdiction. This will help ensure that your certification is valid and up-to-date.

Related: What does an Electrical Inspector do?

Top 10 Electrical Inspector Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Electrical Inspectors today.

1. National Electrical Code (NEC) Certification

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of safety standards for the installation and maintenance of electrical systems. It is updated every three years to keep up with changing technology and industry standards. NEC Certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the installation, inspection, and maintenance of electrical systems. This certification is offered by several organizations, including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI), and National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA).

In order to become certified, individuals must complete a course or program that covers all aspects of the NEC. The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the organization offering the certification, but typically ranges from two weeks to one year.

In addition to completing a course or program, applicants must also pass an exam in order to become certified. The cost of this exam varies depending on the organization offering it, but typically ranges from $100-$200.

Once certified, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in electrical safety standards by displaying their credentials on resumes and other professional documents. They can also use their certification as proof of competence when applying for jobs or contracts in the electrical industry.

2. International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) Certification

The International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) is a non-profit organization that provides certification for electrical inspectors. The IAEI Certification Program is designed to recognize the professional achievements and qualifications of individuals in the field of electrical inspection. It is a voluntary program that requires applicants to meet certain criteria and pass an examination in order to be certified.

Getting IAEI Certified typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the applicant’s experience level and preparation for the exam. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application form, provide proof of their education and experience, and pay a fee. After submitting all required documents, applicants must take and pass a written examination administered by the IAEI. Once they have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their certification from the IAEI.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of certification sought; however, it generally ranges from $100 - $500 USD. This includes fees for application processing, examination administration, and certification issuance.

3. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E Certification

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E Certification is an electrical safety certification program for professionals who work in hazardous areas. The certification is designed to ensure that workers are knowledgeable about the safe practices for working with electricity and to reduce the risk of injury or death due to electrical hazards.

It takes approximately 8-10 hours of study time to prepare for the NFPA 70E exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. The exam must be taken at an approved testing center and must be passed with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive certification.

In order to get certified, you must first complete a training course that covers topics such as electrical safety, arc flash protection, and other related topics. After completing the training course, you will need to register for the NFPA 70E exam at an approved testing center and take the exam.

The cost of taking the NFPA 70E exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking a training course prior to taking the exam if one is required.

4. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification is a voluntary program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that provides safety training to workers in the construction industry. The program is designed to help employers and employees recognize and reduce the risks of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person class. The online course covers topics such as hazard recognition, safe work practices, personal protective equipment, scaffolding safety, fall protection, electrical safety, confined spaces, and more. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the online course.

To get your OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification you must first register for an OSHA approved training provider. You can find a list of approved providers on OSHA's website or by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742). Once you have registered with a provider they will provide you with instructions on how to access the online course material. After completing the online course you must attend an in-person class where you will be tested on your knowledge of the material covered in the online course. Upon successful completion of both parts of the certification process you will receive your official OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification card.

The cost for obtaining your OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification varies depending on which provider you choose to register with but typically ranges from $75-$150 USD.

5. NFPA 70B Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification

NFPA 70B Electrical Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely maintain, inspect, and test electrical systems. The program is offered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and is recognized by many employers as a standard of excellence in electrical maintenance.

The certification process takes approximately four to six months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete an online application, attend an in-person training course, pass a written exam, and submit proof of work experience in electrical maintenance. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider offering the program but typically ranges from $500-$900 USD.

In order to become certified as an Electrical Maintenance Technician through NFPA 70B, applicants must have at least two years of documented experience working with electrical systems or equipment. They must also be able to demonstrate their understanding of NFPA codes and standards related to electrical safety. Additionally, they must successfully complete both the online application process and the in-person training course before taking the written exam.

Once all requirements are met, applicants can take the written exam which consists of multiple-choice questions based on NFPA 70B topics such as circuit analysis, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting techniques, safety considerations for working with electricity, and more. After passing this exam with a score of 80% or higher, applicants will receive their certification from NFPA 70B.

6. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Inspector (CQI)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect products and services to ensure they meet quality standards. The CQI credential is recognized internationally as a symbol of excellence in quality assurance.

To become an ASQ Certified Quality Inspector, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles of quality inspection by passing an exam. The exam covers topics such as inspection techniques, sampling plans, statistical process control, calibration, metrology, problem solving, and root cause analysis.

It typically takes about 6 weeks to prepare for the CQI exam. To prepare for the exam, applicants should review the ASQ Body of Knowledge (BOK), which outlines the topics that will be covered on the exam. Applicants may also find it helpful to take practice exams or attend a review course offered by ASQ or other organizations.

The cost of taking the CQI exam varies depending on where you live and whether you are an ASQ member or not. In general, non-members pay $325 while members pay $295. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking a review course or purchasing study materials.

Once applicants pass the CQI exam, they will receive their official certification from ASQ indicating that they have achieved Certified Quality Inspector status. This certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years by passing a recertification exam or completing continuing education credits.

7. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Field Evaluator Certification

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Field Evaluator Certification is a certification program for individuals who are involved in the evaluation of products and systems in the field. This certification program is designed to ensure that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to properly evaluate products and systems in the field, as well as to verify compliance with UL standards.

To become certified, individuals must complete a two-day training course conducted by UL. The course covers topics such as safety requirements, product evaluation techniques, and inspection procedures. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion from UL.

The cost of the two-day training course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$600 per person. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging if required.

Once an individual has completed the two-day training course, they must then pass a written exam administered by UL in order to become certified as a Field Evaluator. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety requirements, product evaluation techniques, and inspection procedures. Once an individual passes the exam, they will receive their official UL Field Evaluator Certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

In summary, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Field Evaluator Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills to properly evaluate products and systems in the field. It requires successful completion of a two-day training course followed by passing an exam administered by UL. The cost of this certification ranges from $400-$600 per person plus any additional costs associated with travel and lodging if required.

8. International Code Council (ICC) Residential and Commercial Electrical Inspector Certification

The International Code Council (ICC) Residential and Commercial Electrical Inspector Certification is a program that certifies individuals as qualified to inspect electrical systems in residential and commercial buildings. This certification is widely accepted by municipalities and other agencies across the United States.

In order to become certified, applicants must first complete a minimum of 80 hours of approved training from an accredited institution. This training covers topics such as electrical safety, building codes, inspection techniques, and more. After completing the required training, applicants must pass an exam administered by the ICC to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject matter.

The cost of the certification process varies depending on the institution providing the training and the number of exams taken. The ICC charges a fee for each exam taken which can range from $100-$200 per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining course materials or taking practice exams prior to taking the official exam.

Once all requirements have been met, it typically takes between 4-6 weeks for applicants to receive their certification card in the mail. Once certified, inspectors are expected to remain up-to-date on changes in electrical codes and regulations in order to ensure they are properly performing inspections according to current standards.

9. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level IV Fire Alarm Systems Inspector/Plans Examiner

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level IV Fire Alarm Systems Inspector/Plans Examiner certification is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise of individuals who inspect, test, and maintain fire alarm systems. It is an advanced certification that demonstrates the individual’s knowledge and skill in inspecting, testing, and maintaining fire alarm systems.

To obtain this certification, individuals must have at least five years of experience in the field of fire alarm systems inspection and plan examination. They must also pass an exam administered by NICET. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as codes and standards; system design; installation; maintenance; inspection; testing; troubleshooting; and repair.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the exam. To do so, individuals should study relevant codes and standards, review NICET materials related to fire alarm systems inspection and plan examination, practice with sample questions from NICET, attend seminars or workshops on the subject matter, or seek mentorship from experienced professionals in the field.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on the state or jurisdiction where you are located. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $150-$500 to take the exam.

10. International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Traffic Signal Inspector Level I or II

The International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Traffic Signal Inspector Level I or II certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies a professional’s knowledge and skills in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of traffic signals. This certification is designed for individuals who are responsible for the management of traffic signal systems and related components.

To obtain the IMSA Traffic Signal Inspector Level I or II certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field and pass a written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as traffic signal design, operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety. Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, codes, and standards.

The cost to take the IMSA Traffic Signal Inspector Level I or II exam varies depending on location. Generally speaking, it costs between $100-$200 USD to take the exam. The exam typically takes around three hours to complete.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam they will receive their IMSA Traffic Signal Inspector Level I or II certification. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by completing continuing education courses or retaking the exam if necessary.

Do You Really Need a Electrical Inspector Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the context. If you are an electrician or contractor who works in the electrical field, then yes, it is important to have an Electrical Inspector Certificate. This certificate allows you to inspect and certify that electrical systems, components, and equipment meet standards set by local and state laws. It also provides proof that you have the necessary knowledge and abilities to do this work safely and correctly.

For homeowners or other individuals who are not involved in the electrical field, having such a certificate may not be necessary. However, if you plan to work on any type of electrical system yourself—even something as simple as replacing a light switch—it is highly recommended that you obtain at least a basic understanding of electricity and safety protocols before attempting any repairs. Taking a course on home wiring can provide valuable information to help ensure your safety as well as protect your property from potential damage due to improper wiring or installation.

In summary, while having an Electrical Inspector Certificate is important for those in the electrical field, it may not be necessary for everyone else. However, no matter who you are or what project you are working on, it is always wise to educate yourself about electricity and safety protocols before attempting any repairs or installations related to electricity.

Related: Electrical Inspector Resume Examples

FAQs About Electrical Inspector Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an electrical inspector?

Answer: To become an electrical inspector, you must have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as a valid driver’s license and experience in the field of electrical inspection. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may also be required to obtain certifications from nationally recognized organizations such as the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI).

2. How long does it take to become certified as an electrical inspector?

Answer: The length of time for certification varies depending on the type of certification and the organization providing it. Generally, certification can range from six months up to two years or more.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an electrical inspector?

Answer: Becoming an electrical inspector provides individuals with job security and stability, as well as a sense of accomplishment that comes with ensuring public safety through proper inspection and regulation of electrical systems. Additionally, many jurisdictions offer compensation packages that include health insurance and retirement plans.

4. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Certifications typically require renewal every three years in order to maintain their validity. Renewal is usually done through continuing education courses or retesting with the certifying agency.

5. Are there any online courses available for electrical inspectors?

Answer: Yes, there are several online courses available for those interested in becoming certified as an electrical inspector. These courses typically cover topics such as theory and application, inspection techniques, codes and regulations, safety practices, and other relevant topics related to the field of electrical inspection.