Choosing the right contractor licensing exam is a crucial step in launching or advancing your career. If you’re a prospective contractor, you’ve likely come across two major licensing exams: the NASCLA exam and the ICC exam. Both serve different purposes, so selecting the right one for your future aspirations is key.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between the NASCLA and ICC exams, their difficulty levels, and the benefits of each. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which exam aligns with your career goals.
Background on NASCLA and ICC Exams
What is NASCLA?
The National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) is an organization dedicated to improving contractor licensing and regulatory practices across the United States. One of its biggest initiatives is the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors.
The NASCLA exam is designed to streamline the licensing process for general contractors, allowing those who pass to obtain licenses in multiple states without having to take additional trade exams.
The following state boards accept and/or administer the National NASCLA Examination for Commercial and General Building Contractors:
- Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors
- Arizona Registrar of Contractors
- Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board
- Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors
- Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board
- Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors
- Mississippi State Board of Contractors
- Nevada State Contractors Board
- New Mexico Construction Industries Division
- North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors
- Oregon Construction Contractors Board
- South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board
- South Carolina Residential Builders Commission
- Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors
- Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing, Construction Trades Bureau
- Virginia Board for Contractors, Department of Professional and Occupational Licensing
- Virgin Islands Department of Licensing & Consumer Affairs
- West Virginia Contractors Licensing Board, Division of Labor
What is ICC?
The International Code Council (ICC) is a leading organization responsible for developing and enforcing building codes and safety standards. The ICC offers a wide range of exams tailored to specific trades and specialties, such as residential and commercial building codes, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical disciplines.
The ICC exam, also referred to as the ICC National Standard General Building Contractor exam, ensures contractors understand essential building regulations, zoning laws, and safety standards.
Unlike NASCLA, which is accepted across multiple states, ICC exams are often specific to regions or municipalities, making them ideal for contractors working within a state or region that licenses at the municipal level and requires applicants to supply proof of a passing National Standard examination score.
Exam Topics
NASCLA Exam
The NASCLA exam covers a broad range of topics, including:
- Business management and project organization
- Construction safety and regulations
- Estimating, bidding, and project scheduling
- Building materials and sitework
ICC Exam
The ICC exam focuses more on building codes and compliance, covering topics such as:
- International Building Codes (IBC)
- Zoning and land use regulations
- Structural and fire safety regulations
- Specialized trade requirements (electrical, plumbing, mechanical)
Who Benefits from Each Exam?
NASCLA Exam
The NASCLA exam is ideal for:
- Contractors planning to work in multiple states
- General contractors looking for streamlined licensure reciprocity
- Business owners who want the flexibility to expand their operations
ICC Exam
The ICC exam is well-suited for:
- Contractors specializing in a specific trade (electrical, plumbing, etc.)
- Professionals who need certification for a local or state-specific jurisdiction
- Individuals working in municipalities that require ICC certification for building permits
Why Choose One Over the Other?
Reasons to Take the NASCLA Exam
- Allows for licensure reciprocity in multiple states
- Provides broader career flexibility and mobility
- Suitable for general contractors managing large-scale projects across different regions
Reasons to Take the ICC Exam
- Provides targeted certification for specific trades or locations
- Ensures deep knowledge of building codes, which is critical for permit approval
- Often required for local municipal work
Choosing the Right Exam for Your Career
When deciding between the NASCLA and ICC exams, consider the following:
- Where do you plan to work? If you want to operate in multiple states, NASCLA is the better option. If you plan to stay local, ICC may be a better fit.
- What type of contractor are you? General contractors typically benefit from NASCLA, while specialized tradespeople may need ICC certification.
- What are your long-term career goals? If mobility and flexibility are priorities, NASCLA is the way to go. If you prefer to establish deep expertise in local building codes, ICC is a strong choice.
Additionally, researching your state’s specific licensing requirements is crucial. Some states require certain exams for various aspects of licensing or certification, so understanding your local regulations is key.
Properly Prepare for Both Exams
Both the NASCLA and ICC exams offer valuable opportunities for contractors, but choosing the right one depends on your career goals. NASCLA provides multi-state licensing benefits, while ICC ensures deep expertise in building codes and regulations.
At Contractor Training Center, we provide comprehensive NASCLA exam prep and ICC exam prep materials, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to pass on your first attempt.
Still not sure which is right for you? Talk to one of our expert education consultants for free!