National NASCLA Commercial Builder License Exam

• Accepted in 16 states • Everything you need to prepare for the exam • All packages approved for open-book exam

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Overview & Benefits

Your guide to the NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam

Are you eager to become a licensed contractor in one or more states/jurisdictions? Then the NASCLA Accredited Examination Program may be right for you.

The National Association of State Contractor Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) has made it easier for contractors to become licensed in multiple state licenses by offering an accredited examination that is accepted in the following 16+ states as a general contractor licensing exam. 

  1. Alabama  
  2. Arizona  
  3. Arkansas  
  4. Florida 
  5. Georgia  
  6. ⁠Louisiana  
  7. Mississippi  
  8. ⁠Nevada  
  9. ⁠New Mexico  
  10. ⁠North Carolina  
  11. ⁠Oregon  
  12. South Carolina 
  13. Tennessee  
  14. ⁠Utah  
  15. ⁠Virginia  
  16. Virgin Islands  
  17. ⁠West Virginia   

The NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam will test your knowledge of building regulations, best practices, and terminology. While it is a challenging test, Contractor Training Center has everything you need to help you feel confident and prepared on exam day.

What's on the Exam?

What’s on the exam?

# of Questions Minimum Passing Score Time Allowed
115 81 (70%) 330 minutes
Subject Area # of Questions
General Requirements 25
Site Construction 15
Concrete 6
Masonry 4
Metals 6
Wood 5
Thermal and Moisture Protection 5
Doors, Windows, and Glazing 4
Finishes 5
Mechanical and Plumbing Systems 6
Electrical Systems 3
Procurement and Contracting Requirements    31

You can also refer to the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin for more information on testing policies, locations, and fees.

Exam Preparation

How to prepare for the NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam

NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam Prep Course

The National NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam is a standardized exam used to assess the contractor license candidate's knowledge and understanding of various aspects of commercial building construction, ensuring they are qualified to manage projects effectively and safely.

The NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam covers a wide array of subjects related to commercial building, including: 

  • Site Construction 
  • Concrete 
  • Masonry 
  • Metals 
  • Wood 
  • Thermal and Moisture Protection 
  • Doors, Windows, and Glazing 
  • Finishes 
  • Mechanical and Plumbing Systems

To pass the exam, you must achieve a score of 70% or higher. Effective preparation involves a thorough review of all study materials and reference books. 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. 

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License Requirements

How to get a NASCLA Commercial Builder license

To register for the NASCLA Commercial Builder Exam, you'll need to: 

  • Apply to take the exam with NASCLA by visiting ned.nascla.org. 
  • Submit your application and the $35 application fee (Applications are typically processed within 7 business days and valid for one year from the date of approval).    
  • Schedule your exam with PSI. Once your application is approved, you will receive an email with a candidate ID number and a link to schedule your exam. 
  • Pass the five-hour, open-book test consisting of 115 questions. A 70% score is required to pass. 

Once you’ve taken and passed the exam, you will receive a score report validating your results. Then:

  • Return to the NASCLA National Examination Database (NED) at ned.nascla.org and create a user account. 
  • Link your score to your profile.  
  • Purchase a transcript to send to your state board. The transcript fee is $30 per state.

Important Notes:

  • You must be pre-approved by NASCLA before you can take the exam. 
  • Once approved, you are eligible to take the exam for one year and may attempt the exam up to three times within that year. 
  • Transcripts are valid for two years. 
  • Passing the NASCLA exam is just one step in your state’s licensing process. You will also need to meet other state requirements.