Start Your
Inspector
Career.
Complete your 25 DPOR-required supervised inspections with NextDay Inspect — real homes, real clients, real mentorship across Northern Virginia.
Inspections
Compliant
Counties
Not just a checkbox. A launchpad.
Virginia requires 25 supervised inspections before you can get licensed. But our ride-along program isn't about rushing through a checklist — it's about building the confidence, instincts, and professionalism you'll carry into every inspection for the rest of your career.
You'll work alongside licensed inspectors on real homes with real clients. You'll crawl through attics, test electrical panels, evaluate foundations, and learn how to explain complex findings in plain English. By the time you're done, you won't just be eligible for a license — you'll be ready to use it.
From student to licensed inspector
A simple, guided path. We handle the logistics so you can focus on learning.
Apply Online
Tell us about yourself and your training background. We'll review your application and reach out within 48 hours to get you started.
Pick Your Schedule
Choose from available inspections on our calendar. Mornings, afternoons, weekdays, weekends — you set the pace that works for your life.
Inspect & Learn
Shadow a licensed inspector through complete residential inspections. Observe, ask questions, and progressively take on more responsibility as your confidence grows.
Get Your License
We sign your DPOR Experience Verification Form. Submit it with your application and officially launch your career as a Virginia-licensed home inspector.
What Virginia DPOR requires
Here's the full path to becoming a licensed home inspector. We'll help with the parts that matter most.
Be at least 18 years old
Minimum age requirement for all DPOR home inspector applicants.
Complete 70 hours of pre-license education
A DPOR-approved home inspection course — at least 35 hours must be in-person. The rest can be completed online.
ICA School PartnerPass the National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)
The standardized, nationally-recognized exam required by Virginia. Study materials are widely available.
Complete 25 supervised ride-along inspections
Each inspection must be completed under direct supervision — meaning a licensed inspector is physically present the entire time. This is our core program.
We Provide ThisObtain general liability insurance
Minimum $250,000 per occurrence. Proof of coverage is submitted with your DPOR application.
Submit your DPOR application
Include your signed Experience Verification Form, Inspection Log, and required fees. We handle the documentation.
We Sign Your FormsRequirements are set by the Virginia Board for Asbestos, Lead, and Home Inspectors. Always verify current standards at dpor.virginia.gov. NRS (New Residential Structure) inspections require an additional 8-hour training module after licensure.
Common questions
Most participants finish in 4–8 weeks, depending on availability. If you can attend multiple inspections per week, it can go faster. We work together to find a pace that fits your schedule.
We recommend being enrolled or finished before starting. The foundational knowledge makes your field experience much more meaningful. Our partner ICA School can guide you through the coursework.
Under DPOR regulations, it means your supervising inspector must be physically present on the property at all times during the inspection. They're responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. You're never on your own.
Yes. When you've completed all 25 inspections, your supervising inspector signs the official DPOR Experience Verification Form and Inspection Log. These go directly into your license application.
Across Northern Virginia — including Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, Arlington, and Alexandria. You'll see a real variety of property types and ages.
No. You can begin ride-alongs before passing the NHIE. However, you'll need to pass it before submitting your DPOR license application. Many people do both concurrently.
Absolutely. We view this program as a talent pipeline. Trainees who demonstrate skill, professionalism, and work ethic are encouraged to apply for full-time positions. Several of our current inspectors started here.
Reach out to us for current pricing. The program is structured to deliver exceptional value — real mentorship, verified documentation, career placement potential, and training that goes far beyond a basic ride-along. Contact us to learn more.
Ready to start your journey?
Take the first step toward becoming a licensed Virginia home inspector. We'll be with you every step of the way.