Apply and Maintain Masonry Special Inspector Certification

How To Apply For Masonry Certification

1. Apply for the Masonry Inspector Exam

   A detailed description of the application process is as follows:

   Step 1:

   • Applicants must hold current/valid certification as a Structural Masonry Inspector through the International Code Council (ICC).
   • Applicants must be at least 25 years old.

   Step 2:

   Applicants shall submit all of the following to DSA as one package to apply to sit for an exam:

   • Completed DSA 177: Special Inspector Examination Application.
   • Evidence of ICC certification.
   • Evidence of at least three years of experience in construction work or special inspection work on one or more projects similar to anticipated project work.
   • 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 
   • The application fee of $100.00.

   Upon approval by DSA to sit for the exam, the applicant will receive a detailed admittance letter and exam outline. Upon passing the exam, DSA will post the applicant’s name on the DSA Certified Masonry Special Inspector List.

2. Prepare For Exam

   The exam is based on the reference material listed below. The exam is 60 questions, with a two-hour time limit, and will be open-book format. Exam references and content are listed on the International Code Council's Exam Catalog webpage for the California state specific DSA Masonry Special Inspector exam.

3. Renew Your Certification

   All DSA certified Masonry 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 Masonry Special Inspector List.

4. Approve A Project

   Approval for a project is only required when the Masonry Special Inspector contracts individually and directly with the school board or design professional. Application for approval shall be made on form DSA 5-SI: Special Inspector Qualification and Approval. The Masonry 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 Masonry Special Inspector is not considered approved until such time as his/her completed form bears the signature of the responsible DSA Field Engineer.

   Note: Masonry 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 Masonry 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.