Changes to ICC Special Inspector Exams coming in December

Starting December 1, 2017, a majority of ICC’s two-part special inspector exams will be split into three separate exam modules: general requirements, codes and plan reading. As an exception, the spray-applied fireproofing special inspector will be split into two exam modules (general requirements and codes & plan reading) and will have a slightly different breakdown than the other exams.

To achieve a special inspector certification, you will need to pass each module along with any other prerequisites for specific special inspector certifications. If you plan to pursue a reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete or structural welding special inspector certification, you are still held to the additional prerequisites in order to achieve those certifications.

What else is new with the special inspector exams? Here’s a breakdown of the features and improvements.

Modularized exams allow for better exam prep
In the past, if you wanted to become a special inspector, you were required to pass one 3–1/2 hour exam which had two parts; it was up to you to decide how much of your exam time you would use to spend on codes and plans.

With this new modular approach, you will have the opportunity to schedule each exam at separate times. This breakdown allows you more time to prepare for each part of the exam and not worry about dividing your time between testing on the codes and plans.

Electronic plans go digital
For the plan reading module exams, instead of having a set of paper plans, the plans will be available to display on the computer during your exam. You will also be able to use a zoom function to carefully view the plans.

General requirements module: A one-time requirement
Fortunately, the special inspector general requirements exam is a one-time requirement that can be applied to all other special inspector certification paths. For instance, let’s say you’ve already passed the general requirements exam and the codes and plan reading exams for the reinforced concrete special inspector. If you would now like to pursue the prestressed concrete special inspector certification, you’ll be required to take only the codes and plan reading exams since you’ve already taken the general requirements exam.

If you already have a special inspector certification, great! That means you’ve already passed the general requirements module. Should you wish to pursue another special inspector certification, your focus will be on the codes and plans module exams and any other prerequisites required for achieving certification.

Timeline to pass all module exams for certification. You will have 18 months to pass all necessary modules and prerequisites to achieve special inspector certification. You won’t have to take these exams in any particular order, so you can make the decision on which module you want to assess yourself first. Don’t forget you may also take an exam a total of six times in a six-month period.

Technical breakdown of new special inspector module exams for the following certifications:

• 47 Reinforced Concrete
• 92 Prestressed Concrete
• 84 Structural Masonry
• S1 Structural Steel and Bolting
• S2 Structural Welding
• EC Soils

Stay up-to-date when exams become available through our News & Resources page or follow us on Twitter and spread the word!

Click here to view computer-based exam requirements for the special inspector exams.

The chart below details more information on ICC’s special inspector certifications, including the prerequisites and upcoming module exams necessary to pass for achievement:

Special inspector certifications and ICC module exam requirements

Pass the three exams listed above to complete category 47

Obtain certification by ACI as an ACI concrete field testing technician — grade I; and achieve the associate reinforced concrete special inspector certification; category 48

Complete the education/work experience requirements and apply for reinforced concrete special inspector certification; category 49

** Certification as prestressed concrete special inspector requires the prerequisite of obtaining reinforced concrete special inspector certification; category 49.

*** Certification as structural welding special inspector requires the prerequisite of structural steel and bolting special inspector certification; category S1.