How to Become a Shotcrete Special Inspector

How to Apply for Shotcrete Special Inspector Certification

1. Apply For The Shotcrete Inspector Exam

   A detailed description of the application process is as follows:

   Eligibility

   • Applicants must hold current/valid certification as a Reinforced Concrete Special Inspector through the International Code Council (ICC).
   • Applicants must be at least 25 years old.
   • Evidence of at least three years of experience in construction work or special inspection work on one or more projects similar to anticipated work project.

   Apply Online

   Applicants must submit an online Special Inspector application to establish eligibility to take the examination.

   Click Here to apply

   Application Fee: $100

   Application fees are nonrefundable and must be paid at the time of application submission.

   When submitting your application, you must include:

   • Required supporting documentation demonstrating minimum qualifications.
   • Completed DSA 650: Disclosure of Social Security Number and/or Federal Taxpayer Identification Number. This form must be submitted with your application. Issuance of certifications will not be granted until this information is received. Please see DSA’s Taxpayer ID and Social Security Number Disclosure for Certification webpage for additional application requirements related to collection of social security/tax identification numbers 

   DSA will review and evaluate each application to verify that the applicant meets the minimum qualification requirements. Upon approval by DSA to sit for the exam, the applicant will receive a detailed admittance letter and exam outline.

   Transition Notice

   Effective February 1, 2026, DSA will no longer accept paper (physical) DSA Form 175 applications. Applicants who have already begun preparing a paper application should submit it prior to this date.

2. Prepare for Exam

   The exam is 60 questions, with a two-hour time limit, and is open book format. Exam references and content are listed on the International Code Council's Exam Catalog webpage for the California state specific DSA Shotcrete Special Inspector exam. Upon passing the exam, DSA will post his/her name on the DSA Certified Shotcrete Special Inspector List.
   

3. Renew Your Certification

   All DSA certified Shotcrete Special Inspectors must renew their DSA certification every four years prior to expiring. To apply for certification renewal, follow the same steps outlined above with two exceptions: evidence of work history and resubmittal of the DSA 650 is not required.

    

   Upon approval by DSA to sit for the exam, the applicant will receive a detailed admittance letter. Upon passing the exam, DSA will extend the applicant's certification for another four years on the DSA Certified Shotcrete Special Inspector List.

4. Project Approval

   Approval for a project is only required when the Shotcrete Special Inspector contracts individually and directly with the school board or design professional. Application for approval shall be made on form DSA 5-SI. The Shotcrete Inspector shall forward a copy of the completed, signed form to the design professional in responsible charge of the project for his/her signature and submission to DSA for approval. A Shotcrete Special Inspector is not considered approved until such time as his/her completed form bears the signature of the responsible DSA Field Engineer.

   Please note: Shotcrete Special Inspectors employed by the Laboratory of Record (LOR) do not file this form.

   DSA 5-SI: Special Inspector Qualification and Approval (project specific)

   Individuals will be evaluated in accordance with the following criteria prior to approval:

   • Shall be listed on the DSA website as currently certified as a Shotcrete Special Inspector.
   • Shall have met the minimum experience requirements for similar project types.
   • Shall have been approved by the school district, design professional in responsible charge, structural engineer and DSA.