Fire Inspectors

Certification or Licensing

Most fire departments look for employees who have been educated in fire science. But you do not have to be certified before being hired. Most people take the majority of their classes while they are working as fire inspectors.

Local regulations may differ, but generally, fire inspectors obtain certification as a fire prevention officer levels 1 and 2 (sometimes 3) from the office of the state fire marshal. There is a series of classes for each level. The International Code Council offers examination and certification services for various fire-related inspectors. The National Fire Protection Association offers the certified fire inspector designation at two skill levels, the certified fire plan examiner designation, and other credentials. It also offers the certified wildfire mitigation specialist credential. The International Code Council offers several fire sprinkler and fire alarm certification credentials.

The Uniform Fire Code, as well as the Uniform Building Code, provides code requirements on building construction, fire-prevention regulations, and system maintenance.

Other Requirements

If the job requires candidates to first serve as firefighters, then certain physical and personal requirements must be fulfilled. Check with your local fire department to learn more about the necessary qualifications. Fire inspectors usually must pass a background check, which may include a drug test.