General Contractor License Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. In project scheduling, which of the following best describes the 'Critical Path'? → The longest sequence of dependent tasks that determines the minimum project duration.
2. __________ is the amount of unused latex paint in solidified form. → A non-hazardous waste
3. A general contractor is creating a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) for a custom home build. Which of the following is the primary purpose of developing a WBS? → To break down the total project scope into smaller, more manageable work packages.
4. A laboratory soil analysis, known as a Proctor test (ASTM D698), is performed on a soil sample from a job site. What is the primary purpose of this test? → To establish the optimal moisture content for maximum compaction.
5. Which fire-resistance rating is typically required for a floor-ceiling assembly separating dwelling units in a two-family residential building? → 1 hour
6. Which mortar type is recommended for load-bearing exterior masonry walls in moderate climates? → Type N
7. If you see that a fireproof door is needed but it is not included in the drawings, you should: → Report it to the architect immediately
8. Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of a construction daily report? → To provide a legal, historical record of job site activities, progress, and conditions.
9. How much cash can be given as a deposit on a home renovation project to a contractor? → 10 % or $1000.00 whichever is less.
10. A contractor discovers the water supply pressure at a residential project measures 95 psi. What corrective action is required by code? → Install a pressure reducing valve (PRV) to bring pressure below 80 psi
11. Which of the following financial statements provides a snapshot of a construction company's assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time? → Balance Sheet
12. Which license or licenses are needed when a client wants carpets and paint done in their home? → Painting, flooring
13. Which plumbing fitting is required at the base of a soil stack where it transitions from vertical to horizontal? → Long-sweep 1/4 bend
14. Which of the following activities is a key component of the project closeout phase? → Delivering as-built drawings and owner's manuals.
15. Under ASHRAE 62.2, which ventilation method is considered the minimum standard for indoor air quality in new residential construction? → Whole-house mechanical ventilation
16. Which of the following joint types can be used to bring different pipe materials together? → Mechanical
17. What kind of screws are utilized for light-gauge steel and gypsum installation? → Type S screws
18. What is not required on a Home Renovation Contract? → A list of all personnel’s name and home address that is listed on the license
19. A contractor has current assets of $250,000 and current liabilities of $120,000. What is the company's working capital? → $130,000
20. What is the acronym CSI? → Construction Specifications Institute
21. Which drywall type is required by code in areas exposed to high moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens? → Moisture-resistant (green board) or cement backer board
22. What is the definition of Ductility? → Ductility generally refers to the amount of inelastic deformation.
23. What does the designation 'W8x31' refer to in structural steel? → A wide-flange beam 8 inches deep weighing 31 pounds per linear foot
24. When putting together a bid for a house construction project, which of the following is least significant? → The Cost of Permits
25. When installing forced-air HVAC ductwork, what is the primary reason supply registers and return air grilles should NOT be located in the same wall cavity? → Short-cycling occurs when conditioned air is immediately pulled back to the return
26. Which of the following would be classified as an inductive load? → Transformer
27. What is the minimum rebar cover required for concrete in direct contact with the earth (cast against earth)? → 3 inches
28. According to the IRC, what is the maximum distance a P-trap can be located from its fixture drain outlet (trap arm length)? → 24 inches
29. The majority of a building's _____ load is often provided by the structural members' self-weight. → Dead
30. When a contractor works directly with the owner of residential property and the contract fee is: a written agreement between the parties is necessary. → $2,000 or more