2020 Edition

General Contractor Practice Test

Try this free general contractor practice exam to get an idea of what type of questions are on an actual contractor's licensing exam.

Many states require building contractors to be licensed. To get licensed, you may need to take a business and law exam, as well as a trade exam. The trade portion of the exam will cover subjects such as plan reading and estimating, site engineering, sitework and excavation, footings and foundations, concrete, masonry, carpentry, metals and safety.

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Carpentry

1.	What is a conceptual estimate?
		a. A preliminary estimate based on the owner's ideas of design.
		b. It is the actual budget for the project developed by an architectural/engineering firm.
		c. An owner's initial estimate of cost.
		d. An estimate based on blue-prints.
Conceptual estimates are produced from merely the notion the owner has pictured to be constructed. They help the owner determine early on whether a project is financially feasible. More detailed estimates come after the conceptual estimate. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

2.	In a set of blueprints, where would you find the required window sizes?
		a. Elevation plan
		b. Window plan
		c. Window schedule
		d. Architectural plan
The window schedule would be found on a drawing in a box format of detail. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

3.	How is the 3-4-5 method applied in layout situations?
		a. To find perpendicular lines
		b. To square two lines at 90°
		c. To find parallel lines
		d. To get vertical measurements
The 3-4-5 method is the most accurate method to find a 90° angle. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

4.	What types of trees does hardwood lumber come from?
		a. Deciduous (leaf-barring)
		b. Trees grown in the north
		c. Coniferous (cone barring)
		d. Evergreens
Hardwood trees only grow leaves so it makes this easy to determine. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

5.	What is the margin of safety when operating a table saw?
		a. 1'
		b. 2"
		c. 4"
		d. 6"
You should never rip or cut a piece of lumber on a table saw with the fence closer than 4" to the blade. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

6.	Which of the following practices is important to prevent injury while using a chisel?
		a. Always chisel in a direction away from you.
		b. Always use a sharp chisel
		c. Clamp or vice wood stock down.
		d. All the above
You should always take proper precautions when using any sharp tool. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

7.	What is the type of square used for layout of rafters using the step method?
		a. Speed square
		b. Try square
		c. Combination square
		d. Framing square
The framing square has a ruler on both sides. The 16" and 24" surfaces using both sides can determine what the pitch is for the rafter. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

8.	What is the actual size of a piece of 1" x 8" #2 pine?
		a. 1" x 7 ½"
		b. 34" x 7 ½"
		c. ¾" x 7 ¼"
		d. 1" x 7 3/8"
The nominal size is 1" x 8" but the dimensional or actual size is ¾" x 7 ¼" when dressed to size. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

9.	What is another name for saber saw?
		a. Portable electric jig saw
		b. Builders saw
		c. Drywall cutter
		d. Reciprocating saw
This saw is commonly referred to as a jig saw. Its purpose is to cut odd shapes in material. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

10.	The air pressure for an air powered nail gun should not exceed what PSI?
		a. 40 psi
		b. 120-150 psi
		c. 160 psi
		d. Manufactures set the maximum psi.
If you exceed the manufactures maximum psi you void the warranty and put safety in question. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

Plumbing

11.	For the issuance of a plumbing permit, which of the following is normally required?
		a. Design plans
		b. Complete specifications
		c. A description of the use of the building
		d. All of the above
When you apply for a plumbing permit you must provide a full description of the work to be done. Plumbing plans are often required for larger jobs. Specifications of all materials to be installed are a common requirement for a plumbing permit. Permit applications require the physical address of the property to receive plumbing services. The use of the property is often required. It makes a difference if a structure is a home or a daycare. The owner's name of the proper is generally required. You are also required to detail the number and type of plumbing fixtures to be installed. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

12.	What is the maximum distance allowed between pipe supports for plastic DWV piping that is installed horizontally?
		a. 12 inches
		b. 24 inches
		c. 30 inches
		d. 48 inches
Four feet is the maximum distance allowed between pipe supports for plastic DWV piping that is installed in a horizontal position. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

13.	Which of the following types of faucet handles are not allowed for use with faucets that will be installed on accessible fixtures?
		a. Blade handles
		b. Crossbar handles
		c. Single handles
		d. Wing handles
Crossbar handles are not allowed for use in conjunction with accessible faucets. The types of handles that are allowed include: push-button handles, sensor-units, blade handles, wing handles and single handles. The reason for this is that finger dexterity is not a requirement for operating the handles. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

14.	What is the rodding clearance for a 3" drain?
		a. 12"
		b. 18"
		c. 30"
		d. 40"
The rodding clearance for a 3" drain is 18". Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

15.	Why are plumbing traps required to be vented?
		a. To avoid traps being drained of their liquid seals
		b. To convey sewer gas to outside air
		c. To enable drains to drain better
		d. All of the above
Installing vents on plumbing traps enable the drains to drain faster and better. This is due to the air that is allowed to circulate in the drainage system as a result of the vent. Self-cleaning traps, such as P traps, are at risk of being drained of their liquid trap seals if they are not vented. Sewer gas is a health hazard. Vents protect against this risk by transporting sewer gas to open air outside of the building where plumbing is installed. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

16.	A horizontal drain pipe with a diameter of four inches is required to have __________.
		a. A cleanout installed vertically
		b. A cleanout installed at the beginning of the piping run
		c. A cleanout installed at the end of the piping run
		d. A cleanout with a flush-mount plug
Horizontal drain pipes are required to have cleanouts installed at the end of the piping run. Additional cleanouts may be needed when the drain extends for a distance in excess of 50 feet. In the case of the drain terminating at a water closet, the water closet can be considered a cleanout. Likewise, a horizontal drain equipped with a P-trap is considered to have a cleanout as a result of the removable U-bend of the trap. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

17.	The maximum allowable water pressure in residential water distribution systems is __________.
		a. 40 pounds per square inch
		b. 60 pounds per square inch
		c. 80 pounds per square inch
		d. 100 pounds per square inch
Residential plumbing systems are to be equipped with water distribution systems that operate at no more than 80 pounds per square inch. Street pressure for the water delivered from a municipality can be higher than this. If this is the case, the installation of a pressure reducing valve is required near the connection between a water service and a water distribution pipe. This valve allows you to adjust the pressure rating to remain in compliance with the plumbing code. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

18.	Which of the following types of joints can be used to join dissimilar piping materials?
		a. Mechanical
		b. Soldered
		c. Welded
		d. Brazed
Mechanical joints are used when joining dissimilar pipes. These mechanical joints can be made with compression joints or mechanical-sealing devices. The devices used to make the joints are required to have approved elastomeric seals. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

19.	Copper with a green stamp is used in a Med Gas system. What grade of copper does the color denote?
		a. M
		b. L
		c. K
		d. Both B and C
A green stamp denotes the heavier grade of K copper. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

20.	What type of water valve should be installed on a water heater?
		a. Check Valve
		b. Stop and Waste Valve
		c. Full Port Valve
		d. Needle Valve
Only a full port valve can be used on a water heater on the cold inlet side of the water piping. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

Electrical

21.	A premises wiring system supplied by a grounded ac electrical service, shall have a grounding electrode conductor connected to _____ .
		a. the grounded service conductor
		b. the service disconnect enclosure
		c. the equipment grounding conductor
		d. the meter socket enclosure
The grounded conductor of an ac service is connected to a grounding electrode system to limit the voltage to ground imposed on the system by lightning and line surges. It also stabilizes the voltage to ground during normal operation, including short circuits. Refer to Section 250.24(A). Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

22.	A conductor with THHN marked on the insulation has a temperature rating of ______.
		a. 90 degrees F
		b. 90 degrees C
		c. 75 degrees F
		d. 75 degrees C
As shown in Table 310.104(A) and Table 310.15(B)(16) conductors with THHN insulation have a temperature rating of 90ºC. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

23.	At the electrical service provided for a residence, the service-drop conductors shall have a MINIMUM clearance from final grade of _____.
		a. 8 feet
		b. 10 feet
		c. 12 feet
		d. 15 feet
To minimize the potential for making inadvertent contact, overhead service-drop conductors are to have a clearance from final grade of not less than 10 ft., where the voltage does not exceed 150 volts to ground. Refer to Section 230.24(B)(1). Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

24.	Which one of the following listed circuit breakers is NOT a standard ampere rating as per the NEC?
		a. 75 amperes
		b. 90 amperes
		c. 35 amperes
		d. 110 amperes
Standard ampere ratings of fuses and fixed-trip circuit breakers are listed in Table 240.6(A). Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

25.	In Class II, Division 1 locations, an approved method of connection of conduit to boxes or cabinets is _____ .
		a. compression fittings
		b. threaded bosses
		c. welding
		d. all of these
In Class II, Division 1 locations, boxes or fittings shall be provided with threaded bosses for connection to conduit or cable terminations and shall be dusttight. This requirement helps to prevent the entrance of combustible dust. Refer to Section 502.10(A)(3). Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

26.	Where used outdoors, aluminum grounding electrode conductors shall not be terminated within _____ of the earth.
		a. 18 inches
		b. 24 inches
		c. 30 inches
		d. 36 inches
To prevent corrosion of aluminum grounding electrode conductors, where used outside, they are not permitted to be terminated within 18 inches of the earth. Refer to Section 250.64(A). Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

27.	Where the motor controller also serves as a disconnecting means, it shall open all _____ conductors to the motor.
		a. grounded
		b. neutral
		c. grounding
		d. ungrounded
As allowed by the exception to Section 430.84, where the motor controller also serves as the disconnecting means, it shall open all ungrounded conductors to the motor. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

28.	What is the MAXIMUM standard size overcurrent protective device that may be used to protect a storage-type water heater with a rating of 4,500 watts, 240-volts, single-phase?
		a. 20 amperes
		b. 25 amperes
		c. 30 amperes
		d. 35 amperes
In compliance with Section 422.11(E)(3), the overcurrent protective device for a non-motor operated appliance is permitted to be sized at 150% of the current rating of the appliance. Where the value selected does not correspond with the rating of a standard size overcurrent device, you are permitted to go up to the next standard size as shown in Table 240.6(A). I = 4,500 watts = 18.75 amperes x 150% = 28.15 amperes 240 volts Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

29.	Edison base fuses are prohibited _____.
		a. for new work in all buildings
		b. in commercial occupancies for existing work
		c. in residential occupancies for existing installations
		d. in damp locations
As mandated in Section 240.51(B), Edison-base type fuses shall be used only for replacements in existing installations. The purpose of this requirement is to phase out the old-style fuses. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

30.	According to the NEC, recessed lay-in type luminaires installed in suspended ceilings shall:
		a. be supported independently of the ceiling grid.
		b. not be attached to the ceiling framing members.
		c. be attached to building support framing members.
		d. be attached to the ceiling framing members by bolts, screws rivets or clips.
Where lay-in type luminaires are installed in suspended ceilings, Section 410.36(B) calls for the luminaires to be securely fastened to the ceiling framing members by mechanical means. The use of bolts, screws, rivets and clips are permitted for the fastening means. Clips that are used to support a luminaire to the framing members of a suspended ceiling assembly must be of a type listed for the application. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

HVAC

31.	Which of the following would be considered an inductive load?
		a. Transformer
		b. Start capacitor
		c. Solid state relay
		d. Electric heat strip
An inductive load is a load consisting of a coil of wire which will cause current to lag voltage; such as a motor or transformer. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

32.	Heat can travel by:
		a. latent, sensible and radiation.
		b. convection, compression and radiation.
		c. radiation only.
		d. conduction, convection and radiation.
Heat transfer is a discipline of thermal engineering that concerns the conversion, and exchange of thermal energy and heat between physical principles. Heat transfer is classified into various methods, such as thermal conduction, thermal convection, and thermal radiation. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

33.	What does a temperature differential across a filter-drier indicate?
		a. Normal operation
		b. Refrigerant overcharge
		c. Restricted filter-drier
		d. Refrigerant undercharge
When a system has a restricted filter drier, it causes a pressure drop across the drier, thus restricting the flow of refrigerant, and the difference in pressure results in a temperature drop across the drier at the point of the restriction. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

34.	An increase in water flow, when using a water cooled condenser, would _____.
		a. increase the power consumption of the compressor
		b. increase the fouling factor of the water
		c. decrease the operating discharge pressures
		d. increase the power consumption of the compressor
By increasing water flow, this will cause the discharge pressure to drop. More water at a cooler temperature will absorb more heat and lower the pressure. Water cooled condensers are designed to maintain a 10 degree differential between the refrigerant and water temperature. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

Welding

35.	What type of electrodes must be used with a process the produces no flux residue (slag) that covers the entire weld?
		a. solid
		b. metal cored
		c. flux cored
		d. Both a and b
A process that produces no flux residue (slag) must only use solid and or metal cored electrode wires. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

36.	The endurance limit of a material must be considered when concerned about which property?
		a. Fatigue
		b. Tensile strength
		c. Yield strength
		d. Hardness
The ability of a material to be effected by repeated load (generally more than 250,000 cycles) is considered fatigue or cyclic loading. The endurance limit of a material is the load that can be applied for an unlimited number of cycles without failure occurring. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

37.	If the weld does not combine with another weld or the base metal it is referred to as:
		a. Incomplete penetration
		b. Incomplete bonding
		c. Incomplete inclusion
		d. Incomplete fusion
If the weld does not combine with another weld or the base metal it is referred to as Incomplete fusion. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

38.	Arc time is:
		a. the total time the welder is clocked into work.
		b. the time the arc is on during the arc welding operation.
		c. the non-arc time.
		d. the total arc and non-arc time.
This is also considered the operating factor and is thought of as the percentage of a shift that a welder/welding operator is actually welding. For robotic and mechanized welding, it can be as high as 90% while for manual and semiautomatic welding it can be as low as 10-20% operating factors. Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

Miscellaneous Construction

39.	When a vertical wall is correctly installed, it is said to be?
		a. Square
		b. Vertical
		c. Plumb
		d. Upright
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

40.	Which is the most durable wallpaper?
		a. Vinyl
		b. Hemp
		c. Foil
		d. Burlap
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

41.	How deep is a standard closet?
		a. 16 inches
		b. 18 inches
		c. 22 inches
		d. 24 inches
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

42.	In an attic, what is the minimum clearance?
		a. 24 inches
		b. 28 inches
		c. 30 inches
		d. 32 inches
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

43.	For scaffolding, what is the minimum railing height?
		a. 48 inches
		b. 42 inches
		c. 40 inches
		d. 36 inches
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

44.	When is asbestos most dangerous?
		a. Encapsulated
		b. Friable
		c. Forming
		d. None of the above
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

45.	Which is the smallest wire gauge?
		a. 3
		b. 1
		c. 0
		d. 00
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

46.	How high are standard kitchen cabinets?
		a. 38 inches
		b. 36 inches
		c. 34 inches
		d. 32 inches
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

47.	One story buildings should have a minimum foundation depth of?
		a. 24 inches
		b. 18 inches
		c. 12 inches
		d. 6 inches
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

48.	The minimum gauge for galvanized steel valley flashing should be?
		a. No. 36
		b. No. 34
		c. No. 30
		d. No. 28
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

49.	What is the purpose of the fascia board?
		a. Esthetics
		b. Waterproofing
		c. Drainage
		d. Protection
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

50.	What materials are best used for exterior siding?
		a. Redwood and Pine
		b. Cedar and Pine
		c. Redwood and Cedar
		d. Fur and Redwood
Incorrect answer. Please choose another answer.

Quality starts with...

...who wrote the material.
Our practice exam writers:

Ray Holder

is a Certified Electrical Trade Instructor & Electrician License Exam Expert. Ray Holder has worked in the electrical industry for over 45 years as an apprentice, journeyman, master, field engineer, estimator, business manager, contractor, inspector, consultant and instructor.

Dodge Woodson

was a master plumber and gas fitter for over 30 years. In addition to being a field plumber and contractor, Woodson served as adjunct plumbing licensing faculty at Central Maine Technical College. As R. Dodge Woodson, he is a best-selling author and is the most prolific plumbing author in print with McGraw-Hill. He is often referred to as America’s Plumber.

Charles Redecker

is a master plumber instructor and education director with the National Center for Construction Education and Research. Charles has taught plumbing with the NCCER for over 10 years.

Terry Lunt

is a plumbing and master craft instructor with Associated Builders and Contractors in Southern California. He has also been a core curriculum instructor and subject matter expert in plumbing with the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

HVAC Professionals

at HVAC Excellence, The Leading HVAC Authority. The questions are based on industry standards and offer a comprehensive coverage of the fundamental subject matter found on most HVACR certification exams.

Edward Bohnart

is an AWS certified master welder and welding educator who has over thirty five years of experience in the welding industry. He has served as a Board member of the American Welding Society for over a decade and was its National President from 1995 – 1996.Ray Holder is a Certified Electrical Trade Instructor & Electrician License Exam Expert. Ray Holder has worked in the electrical industry for over 45 years as an apprentice, journeyman, master, field engineer, estimator, business manager, contractor, inspector, consultant and instructor.

John Howley, Jr.

is a certified carpentry instructor from Homosassa, Florida. John was head of the carpentry department and taught carpentry at a technical high school for over twenty years. He taught rough carpentry, finish carpentry, millwork and cabinet making.

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