How to become a home inspector in New York
New York home inspectors are licensed by the New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services. Here is what it takes to work as a licensed home inspector in New York, from official sources checked November 4, 2026.
Who can become a home inspector in New York?
- High school diploma or equivalent
- No disqualifying criminal convictions
New York home inspector license requirements
| State license | Yes. New York requires a home inspector license from the Department of State. |
|---|---|
| Licensed by | New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services |
| License name | Home Inspector License |
| Education or training | A Department-approved course of at least 140 hours, 40 of them unpaid field-based inspections; or at least 100 supervised home inspections. |
| Exam | Pass the NYS written exam or the National Home Inspector Examination (PSI). |
| Insurance or bond | File proof of liability coverage of at least $150,000 per occurrence and $500,000 aggregate. |
| License term | 2 years |
| Continuing education | 24 hours of approved continuing education every 2-year term. |
How much does it cost?
| Initial application | $250 |
|---|---|
| Written exam | $50 |
| Renewal | $100 |
Fees as listed by the state. Schools, courses, exam prep, insurance and equipment cost extra and vary by provider.
Steps to become a home inspector in New York
- Complete a 140-hour approved course with 40 hours of field inspections (or 100 supervised inspections)
- Pass the NYS exam or the NHIE
- Get liability coverage of $150,000/$500,000
- Submit the Home Inspector Application with fees to the Division of Licensing Services
Apply on the official New York site
How do you check a home inspector's license in New York?
- Search the name or license number on the official New York home inspector license lookup.
- Check that the status is active and the name matches the person or company you're hiring.
- Ask how long they've been licensed and whether any complaints or discipline are on record.