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Flexible Online Learning That Fits Your Life — AND Gets You Exam-Ready 

Master the Closed-Book Exam 

Master the Closed-Book Exam 

Feel fully prepared with a California-specific curriculum built for closed-book mastery and real exam expectations.

Remember What Matters

Remember What Matters

Short videos, quick drills, and targeted quizzes help you lock in key concepts—without long, overwhelming lessons.

Simplify Your Study Path 

Simplify Your Study Path 

A clean, focused study plan removes the clutter so you can stay organized, on track, and ready to finish strong.

Explore Our Exam Prep Packages

Online + Live Cram Sessions

$699.00

WHAT’S INCLUDED 

All components in the Online package, plus: 

Weekend Live Cram Sessions to help sharpen your skills fast—join intensive 2-day livestreams led by live instructors, offered every month with unlimited sessions all year 

FREE Course Trial—Experience It Now

Feel confident in your decision with a 7-day free trial!

With an inside look at the course structure and a full study module—including videos, drills, and a quiz—you’ll see how easy and effective online studying with CTC can be.
  • "I honestly could not have passed the exam without the class. It was well worth the money and I'd recommend your class to anybody!"

    K. Rose

  • "Absolutely love it! Fantastic customer service as well."

    J. Wheeler

  • After taking your class for 1-day Contractor-A/Bldr, I took all 4 sections the next week and passed all 4 on the first try. Sure was glad to get through it so quick and easy - thanks for the help preparing.

    W. Solterbeck

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Overview

Your guide to the California General Building (B) Contractor Exam

The California General Building (B) Contractor Exam is a rigorous assessment of your understanding of building regulations, industry best practices, and key terminology. But with the right study materials and expert-led courses from Contractor Training Center, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence needed to pass the exam and launch your career as a licensed contractor.

Exam Breakdown

What's on the exam

# of Questions Minimum Passing Score Time Allowed
230 166 (72%) 420 minutes
Subject Area # of Questions
Planning and Estimating 39
Framing and Structural Components 50
Core Trades 69
Finish Trades 43
Safety 27

For more information on testing policies, please refer to the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin.

Exam Preparation

How to prepare for the California General Building (B) Contractor Exam

California contractor exams are administered by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Their purpose is to evaluate aspiring contractors' knowledge of their specific field.

Effective preparation involves a thorough review of all study materials and reference books and relevant California state codes. General Building contractor exam prep courses like the packages available through Contractor Training Center can explain exactly what you need to know to pass your exam the first time. 

License Requirements

How to get your California General Building (B) Contractor license

Contractor Training Center will be with you every step of the way on your path to obtaining a California Contractor License. Here’s what you need to know to get started:

  • You’ll need to be at least 18 years old. 
  • Have four years of verifiable journey-level experience in general construction within the last ten years. College degrees in construction-related fields may substitute for up to three years of experience. 
  • Possess a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). 
  • Obtain a contractor's bond. As of January 1, 2023, the amount was set at $25,000
  • You’ll be required to submit proof of workers' compensation insurance if you have employees. 
  • Pass the General Building (B) Contractor Exam. 
  • Pass the Law and Business Exam. 
  • Submit application and fees. 
  • Submit fingerprints for a mandatory criminal background check after your application is accepted.

Meeting license requirements ensures that those engaged in construction-related activities in California possess the necessary knowledge and understanding of building codes, construction practices, and business principles to operate safely and responsibly. To learn more about the process, check out this blog post about becoming a contractor in California

Browse All California General Building (B) Contractor Exam (B) Prep Tools & Courses