All boiler and pressure vessel inspectors working in Washington are required to have a "work card" issued by L&I.
To be eligible for a work card, you must:
- Submit an Application for Certificate of Competency as an Inspector of Pressure Retaining Items (F620-040-000).
- This application must be submitted at least 30 days prior to your scheduled exam.
- Successfully pass the National Board and the Washington State boiler examination.
- Submit the appropriate fee.
Washington State boiler inspector exams are administered upon request. For exam scheduling and information, please contact the Boiler Program's Administrative Assistant at 360-902-5271. Applications must be received 30 days prior to the test day. An examination fee will be charged.
Re-Examination
National Board commissioned inspectors who have not worked in the State of Washington for 3 years must re-take the Washington State Examination.
National Board Inservice Commission Exams are offered by request four times a year, namely the first Wednesday and following Thursday of the months of March, June, September and December. For more information, please visit the National Board website.
- Examination fee: A fee of $107.50 will be charged for each applicant sitting for an inspection examination(s).
- Special inspector commission: An initial fee of $58.00 (including work card).
- Total Due: $165.50 (exam and work card fee).
- This amount must be paid before the exam. Payment can be made at the Labor & Industries office, online, or mailed and received by our office before the exam date.
- If paid at a service location, or online, please retain a copy of the receipt and send it to us prior to the exam.
- Annual special inspector commission: A fee of $36.00 for annual renewal.
- If a special inspector changes companies: A work card fee of $58.00 will be charged.
- Total Due: $165.50 (exam and work card fee).
A boiler operator's license is not required for individuals who operate boilers in the state of Washington. However, a valid boiler operator's license is required for:
- City of Seattle - 206-684-5174.
- City of Spokane - 509-625-6313.
- City of Tacoma - call Bates Technical College at 253-680-7400.
- Companies or facilities that have internal boiler operator licensing requirements – refer to your company’s policies.