The ICC Building Plans Examiner Certification is offered by the International Code Council to evaluate building plan examination skills. The assessment tests candidates across 7 distinct domains, featuring a total of 80 multiple-choice questions administered during a structured duration of 210 minutes to verify professional code compliance competency and technical knowledge.
Professionals pursuing a career as a building plans examiner. Candidates need practical knowledge of construction documents, public safety requirements, and code compliance principles set by the International Code Council.
Review the complete content outline to understand each domain weight and focus area. Study all recommended reference materials, building codes, related appendices, and detailed footnotes. Utilize a structured study calendar to plan daily reviews across all relevant structural provisions and technical requirements represented in the national examinations.
This domain focuses on general administration rules, code compliance agency creation, permit administration procedures, and the specific statutory duties and responsibilities assigned to the building official during plan review.
This domain covers standard building planning principles, including height limitations, specific area requirements, and precise occupancy classifications necessary for safe and legally compliant structural designs under current regulations.
This domain specifically addresses footings and foundations, underlying soil properties, and foundational structural design requirements needed to ensure stability and proper load-bearing safety for the bases of buildings across various projects.
This domain deals with standard floor construction standards, approved materials, and necessary structural support systems mandated by modern building codes to maintain structural integrity across different building levels.
This particular domain covers wall construction methodologies, exterior and interior wall coverings, and all associated fire safety and structural performance standards required for both exterior and interior partitions.
This domain examines roof and ceiling construction assemblies, structural dead and live loads, and rooftop structures to ensure weather resistance and structural safety at the top of buildings.
This domain focuses heavily on public safety and special construction requirements, representing a massive portion of the exam content and testing standard life safety systems across various building projects.
Bring your government-issued photo identification with your first and last legal name matching your registration. Arrive prepared to manage your time across the 210-minute testing period.
The exam consists of a total of 80 multiple-choice questions presented in a standard four-option format, with exactly one correct option scored for every question.
The passing score is evaluated on a pass-fail basis, with a scaled passing score typically established at 70 or 75 by the Code Council and the Exam Development Committee.
The official exam has a strict total duration of 210 minutes allocated for candidates to successfully complete all questions across the 7 distinct content domains.
Professionals seeking validation of their skills in reviewing building plans, checking construction documents, and enforcing code compliance should take this exam. Check with International Code Council for the current certification path.
Verified 2026-09-13
This page was built using verified facts and official source documentation from the International Code Council exam guides, outlining domain weights, scoring, and test requirements.