Virginia is unique in that the commonwealth offers, but does not require, a credential.  Some inspectors choose to acquire state certification; others do not.

Basic requirements for Virginia Certification (paraphrased):

• Minimum age: 18 years
• High school diploma or equivalent; and
• One of the following:
  • Completed 35 contact hours of classroom instruction and have completed a minimum of 100 home inspections or
  • Completed 35 contact hours of classroom instruction and have completed a minimun of 50 certified home inspections under the direct supervision of a certified home inspector or
  • Completed 70 contact hours of classroom instruction and have completed a minimum of 50 home inspections or
  • Completed 70 contact hours of classroom instruction and have completed a miimum of 25 certified home inspections under the direct supervision of a certified home inspector
    
• Pass the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)
• $250,000 in general liability insurance

An inspector who cannot fulfill the classroom instruction requirement as outlined in this subsection may substitute a minimum of 10 years of experience as a home inspector to satisfy this requirement. The experience substitution is subject to board review and approval.