Building Plans Examiner - B3
Credential: Building Plans Examiner - B3
Credentialing Agency: International Code Council (ICC)
Renewal Period: 3 years
The International Code Council (ICC) Building Plans Examiner – B3 certification is an intermediate-level credential for individuals who review and examine building construction documents for conformity to building codes and regulations. Building Plans Examiners are responsible for reviewing submitted plans to determine if the plans meet requirements set by the jurisdiction within which the building stands. At this level of certification, the examiner reviews plans for any size of building in any occupancy classification. The ICC B3 exam validates an individual's basic technical knowledge, education and related experience as an examiner. The certification holder demonstrates the ability to read blueprints, and has a strong knowledge of building codes, and can determine if plans meet regulated criteria for safety, utilities, and installations. Additionally, examiners with the B3 certification review the status of and land and building permits. Certified individuals understand building planning, footings, foundations, floor construction, wall construction, coverings, roof and ceiling construction, and public safety construction as it applies to building code compliance. There are no experience requirements, education requirements, or pre-requisites that must be met prior to taking the written exam. However, individuals seeking the Building Plans Examiner certification should have technical knowledge and related experience in their chosen field of expertise. Candidates are required to pass an exam.
More information can be found on the certifying agency's website.
Building Plans Examiner - B3
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility Requirements (View Details)
- Credential Prerequisite
- Experience
- Education
- Training
- Membership
- Other
- Fee
Note: This credential may have multiple options for becoming eligible. Listed are the minimum requirements based on the minimum degree required. To view other options, see the Eligibility tab.
Exam Requirements (View Details)
- Exam
- Written Exam
- Oral Exam
- Practical Exam
- Performance Assessment
RECERTIFICATION SUMMARY
Renewal Period: 3 years
AGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
International Code Council (ICC)
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (888) 422-7233
Fax: (202) 783-2348
Contact Page
Other REQUIREMENTS
The Building Plans Examiner - B3 credential has the following other requirements:
- Applicants must adhere to the ICC Code of Ethics.
Exam Preparation Resources
There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the Building Plans Examiner - B3 examination:
- Best Sources
- Books and Reports
- General References
- Related Courses
- Related Training
Testing Information
Testing for this credential is handled by Pearson VUE. The test centers are located in the U.S. They also have some test centers on military bases.
To find out more, use the following links on the Pearson VUE website:
- Search for Testing Program
- Learn About Testing for Military Communities
- Agency/Certification Specific Testing Information
- Contact Pearson VUE
For more information on the International Code Council (ICC) testing process, visit the agency website.
RECERTIFICATION
Building Plans Examiner - B3
Renewal Period: 3 years
Additional considerations for the Building Plans Examiner - B3 include:
- Though ICC does not require meeting experience requirements, education requirements, or pre-requisites prior to taking the written exam, individuals seeking the Building Plans Examiner certification should have technical knowledge and related experience in their chosen field of expertise. Related education and management experience is useful when taking the certification examination.
- Some states and cities have specific construction and building inspection licenscing requirements. Candidates must check the licensing regulations specific to the location. ICC develops and administers customized construction trade licensing exams for state and municipal jurisdictions. Additional information can be obtained from the ICC Exam Catalog page; key in the exam title into the search field.
- Successfully passing this exam in combination with other specific exams and requirements may allow a candidate to obtain a combination designation. A combination designation is granted automatically through a candidate's myICC account once all prerequisites are met and all exams have been passed.
Visit the ICC's page on Combination Designations to learn more about earning a designation.