CTQP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CTQP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What document should an inspector review before pile driving begins to understand subsurface conditions? → The geotechnical investigation report and boring logs
2. What is the inspector's responsibility during pipe trench backfill operations? → To verify compaction lifts, material, and density testing around and over the pipe
3. What does 'SP-9.5' or 'SP-12.5' designate in FDOT Superpave mix naming? → The nominal maximum aggregate size in millimeters
4. Which of the following sets for the Department's methods and Procedures for preparing and checking final estimates? → Preparation and Documentation Manual
5. At what point during pile driving must the inspector notify the engineer? → When a pile reaches refusal before achieving the minimum tip elevation
6. What is a 'settlement monument' used for in earthwork inspection? → A device installed to monitor vertical movement of embankments over time
7. What are 'drums' or 'channelizing devices' used for in a work zone? → To delineate the edge of the travel lane and guide traffic through the work zone
8. What minimum percent compaction is typically required for embankment fill under Florida Department of Transportation specifications? → 95%
9. What type of roller is used for final compaction (finish rolling) of an asphalt mat? → Steel-wheel static roller or vibratory roller in static mode
10. Which soil classification system is most commonly referenced in FDOT earthwork specifications? → AASHTO Soil Classification System
11. What is the required inspection frequency for a temporary traffic control setup on an active FDOT project? → Daily inspection by the inspector and documented on the daily work report
12. What method is used to test newly installed storm drain pipe for joint integrity and alignment? → Mandrel testing and visual inspection or video inspection
13. What does the Los Angeles Abrasion test (AASHTO T 96) measure for coarse aggregates? → The resistance of coarse aggregate to degradation by abrasion and impact
14. What does 'Level of Service' or 'LOS' refer to in FDOT asphalt density acceptance? → The statistical acceptance procedure used to evaluate lot density results
15. Which of the following is NOT officially considered to be a "Contract Document"? → Both B and D
16. What is the purpose of a 'Portable Changeable Message Sign (PCMS)' in a construction work zone? → To provide dynamic messages about work zone conditions, delays, or alternate routes
17. What type of pile is most commonly used in FDOT bridge foundation construction? → Prestressed concrete piles
18. What does 'headwall' refer to in roadway drainage construction? → The upstream end of a culvert protected by a concrete or masonry wall
19. What is a 'restrike' in pile driving and when is it performed? → Re-driving a pile after a waiting period to assess capacity after soil setup
20. When must a Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) plan be submitted and approved by FDOT? → Before any traffic control devices are placed or any lane closures are made
21. What is the primary function of type A water-reducing admixtures in concrete? → Reduce the water content to enhance workability and increase strength
22. What is the purpose of 'string lining' or 'joint matching' at a longitudinal joint? → To ensure the new mat is placed flush with the existing lane edge
23. What information does a sieve analysis (gradation test) provide about an aggregate sample? → The particle size distribution (gradation) of the aggregate
24. What is the minimum distance from a previously driven pile that a new pile can be driven without risk of damage? → Specified in the contract documents and geotechnical report
25. What is the significance of the 'invert elevation' of a storm drain pipe? → The elevation of the bottom inside of the pipe, which controls flow direction and capacity
26. What is the primary purpose of a tack coat in asphalt pavement construction? → To provide a bond between existing and new asphalt layers
27. What is a 'temporary traffic signal' used for in a work zone? → To coordinate alternating one-way traffic flow through a single-lane section
28. What is 'pipe bedding' and why is it important? → The granular material placed under and around a pipe to provide uniform support
29. What is the minimum pavement temperature at which asphalt compaction must be completed per FDOT specifications? → 175°F
30. During earthwork inspection, what is the maximum lift thickness typically allowed for general embankment before compaction? → 12 inches loose measure