National 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 states by offering an accredited examination that is accepted in 16+ states. 

NASCLA does not impose prerequisites for the exam, but passing the NASCLA exam does not automatically grant a contractor's license. Each state has its own licensing requirements, which may include additional exams (such as Business and Law), experience qualifications, or other criteria. 

The following states accept the NASCLA Commercial Builder 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. U.S. Virgin Islands    
15. ⁠Utah  
16. ⁠Virginia  
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.

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

Pass the Exam

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. 

Submit Transcript to State Board

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.