TREC Licensing Guide
How to Become a Home Inspector in Texas
Texas is one of the most regulated states for home inspectors. Here's everything you need to know about getting licensed.
Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC)
The Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) is the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating home inspectors in Texas.
TREC establishes licensing requirements, sets education standards, and administers the state licensing examinations.
Industry Statistics
The average passing rate for Texas home inspector schools is only 58.79%.
That means nearly half of all students fail their first exam attempt. Choosing the right school matters.
Licensing Paths
Texas Inspector License Levels
Apprentice Inspector
Entry-level license to work under supervision
Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien
- Be sponsored by a Professional Inspector
- Pass background check
- Provide proof of liability insurance
Work under direct supervision to gain experience.
Real Estate Inspector
Mid-level license for residential inspections
Requirements
- Complete 90-154 hours of approved education
- Complete Texas Practicum (if using education pathway)
- Pass national (NHIE) and state exams
- Pass background check
- Provide proof of liability insurance
Required Courses
- Property & Building Inspection I
- Property & Building Inspection II
- Business Operations & Professional Responsibilities
- Texas Standards of Practice
Professional Inspector
Full license to operate independently
Requirements
- Complete 154+ hours of approved education
- Complete Texas Practicum (if using education pathway)
- Pass national (NHIE) and state exams
- Pass background check
- Provide proof of liability insurance
Required Courses
- Property & Building Inspection I
- Property & Building Inspection II
- Analysis of Findings & Reporting
- Business Operations & Professional Responsibilities
- Texas Standards of Practice
- Texas Law
The Tests
The Licensing Exams
National Home Inspector Exam (NHIE)
Required for all inspector licenses
- 200 multiple-choice questions
- 4-hour time limit
- Covers all aspects of home inspection
- Must complete core courses before testing
Texas State Exam
Texas-specific requirements
- Covers Texas Standards of Practice
- Texas-specific laws and regulations
- Must complete Texas courses before testing
- Administered by TREC-approved testing centers
Why TIA
Why Choose The Inspection Academy?
Most home inspector schools were built by inspectors who know their trade but don't know how to teach it. We're different.
Traditional Schools
- ✗Rushed classroom sessions
- ✗Passive video lectures
- ✗“Good luck” with textbooks
- ✗58.79% average pass rate
The Inspection Academy
- Self-paced online learning
- Interactive exercises & activities
- Adaptive test prep included
- Built to help you pass first time
Ready to Start Your New Career?
Join The Inspection Academy and get the training you need to pass your exam on the first try.