81

Correct Scored Answers to Pass

115

Scored NASCLA Questions

5.5H

Five-and-a-Half-Hour Examination

OPEN

Approved Open-Book References

Important Arizona licensing distinction: NASCLA is an accredited trade examination, not an independent Arizona general contractor license. Arizona recognizes the Commercial General Building exam for qualifying commercial and dual building license paths, including B-1, B-2, KB-1, and KB-2. Applicants must still satisfy Arizona Registrar of Contractors requirements for the correct license classification, qualifying party, experience, Statutes and Rules Exam or approved waiver, bonding, and business approval. The Arizona-specific PSI trade exam and the NASCLA commercial exam are different tests with different formats and book lists.

What Is the Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam?

The NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is a standardized construction trade examination accepted by participating licensing agencies.

NASCLA stands for the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies.

Its commercial general building examination helps contractors demonstrate trade knowledge that may satisfy the technical examination requirement in more than one participating jurisdiction.

Arizona is one of the states that accepts the exam for specified general commercial and dual building contractor classifications.

The main classifications are B-1 General Commercial, B-2 General Small Commercial, KB-1 Dual Building, and KB-2 Dual Residential and Small Commercial.

The exam covers construction knowledge needed to manage commercial projects. That includes contracts, estimating, bidding, construction codes, safety, structural materials, jobsite planning, and subcontractor coordination.

For example, a general contractor might coordinate excavation, structural concrete, steel erection, framing, roofing, building finishes, mechanical systems, and electrical work on one commercial project.

The exam tests how construction systems fit together and how contractors manage the work from early planning through project completion.

A candidate first applies for NASCLA examination eligibility. After approval, PSI handles testing.

Passing candidates can use NASCLA's National Examination Database to send an official score transcript to participating licensing agencies.

Arizona decides whether the result satisfies the trade examination requirement for the requested classification.

The applicant must still complete all remaining Arizona ROC licensing steps.

NASCLA does not issue a national contractor license or automatically authorize work in every state. Think of it as a reusable examination result, not a magic construction permit that works everywhere.

Official exam: NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors.

Exam organization: NASCLA.

Testing provider: PSI.

Arizona licensing authority: Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

Scored questions: 115.

Unscored pretest questions: 10.

Time limit: 330 minutes.

Passing requirement: 81 correct scored answers.

Format: Open book using approved references.

Review the Arizona ROC application process and NASCLA Commercial Exam information.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Licensing Path

Follow the NASCLA examination process while completing Arizona's separate business licensing requirements.

Step Requirement What to Verify
Choose the Arizona License B-1, B-2, KB-1, or KB-2 Confirm the classification matches your intended commercial or dual construction scope.
Identify Your Qualifying Party AZ ROC Qualification Determine who meets the required construction experience and examination criteria.
Document Experience Construction Background Prepare verified experience appropriate for the selected general building classification.
Confirm NASCLA Acceptance Arizona Trade Exam Alternative Confirm that AZ ROC accepts the NASCLA Commercial General Building result for your application.
Apply Through NASCLA Exam Eligibility Complete the NASCLA application and pay the current fee.
Receive PSI Eligibility Approval Email Wait for NASCLA approval and the scheduling instructions from PSI.
Prepare Official References Current Book List Check each title and edition against the latest NASCLA/PSI bulletin.
Take the NASCLA Exam Open-Book PSI Test Complete 115 scored questions plus 10 unscored items in 330 minutes.
Meet the Passing Standard 81 Correct Answer at least 81 scored questions correctly.
Order Your NASCLA Transcript NED Database Send the official result electronically to Arizona ROC.
Complete Arizona SRE State Contractor Rules Complete Arizona's online Statutes and Rules requirement unless an applicable waiver is approved.
Submit the Contractor Application Arizona ROC Complete business registration, bonding, fees, and other licensing documentation.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor 2026 Exam Snapshot

The NASCLA examination details below follow the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin updated July 7, 2026. Arizona licensing requirements remain separate.

Exam Information Authority Current Detail
Official Examination NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors
Testing Provider PSI Computer-delivered examination
Arizona Licensing Board State Arizona Registrar of Contractors
Applicable Arizona License Paths AZ ROC B-1, B-2, KB-1, KB-2 as approved for the application
Scored Questions PSI 115
Additional Pretest Questions PSI 10 unscored questions
Possible Questions Presented PSI 125 total
Exam Duration PSI 330 minutes, 5.5 hours
Passing Score PSI 81 of 115 scored questions
Exam Format PSI Open book, approved references only
General Requirements PSI 25 questions
Site Construction PSI 15 questions
Concrete PSI 6 questions
Masonry PSI 4 questions
Metals PSI 6 questions
Wood PSI 5 questions
Thermal and Moisture Protection PSI 5 questions
Doors, Windows, and Glazing PSI 4 questions
Finishes PSI 5 questions
Mechanical and Plumbing Systems PSI 6 questions
Electrical Systems PSI 3 questions
Procurement and Contracting PSI 31 questions
International Building Code PSI 2021 or 2024 edition
NASCLA Business Guide PSI Basic 14th Edition
Arizona State Rules Exam AZ ROC Separate online SRE requirement unless appropriately waived
NASCLA Application Fee NASCLA $65, subject to change
PSI NASCLA Examination Fee July 2026 Bulletin $130, subject to change
NASCLA State Transcript NASCLA NED $45 per agency, subject to change
Exam Eligibility NASCLA One year after approval
Attempts During Eligibility NASCLA Maximum of three attempts
Transcript Date for Arizona NASCLA Arizona Agency Information Examination date must be within the previous two years

Key exam numbers: 115 scored questions, 10 additional unscored questions, 330 minutes, and 81 correct scored answers to pass.

Important fee note: Older Arizona ROC pages and current NASCLA/PSI publications do not show identical historical fee amounts. Use NASCLA and PSI's live checkout information before paying.

Licensing note: Arizona SRE, contractor license fees, financial requirements, and bonding are separate from the NASCLA trade examination.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Breakdown

The NASCLA Commercial General Building examination tests much more than the ability to identify construction materials.

The exam measures the knowledge contractors need to plan, supervise, coordinate, and complete commercial building projects.

Procurement and Contracting Requirements is the largest category, with 31 scored questions. Study bids, contract documents, subcontracting, purchasing, estimating, payment, project administration, and construction agreements.

General Requirements contains 25 questions. Review project management, jobsite safety, building codes, accessibility, inspections, quality control, and general construction administration.

Site Construction contains 15 questions. Study excavation, earthwork, grading, site preparation, drainage, stormwater management, and related jobsite operations.

These three categories account for 71 of the 115 scored questions. That is more than 60% of the published examination.

Concrete contains six questions. Review reinforcement, placement, curing, structural concrete, and quality practices.

Metals contains six questions. Study structural steel, steel decking, joists, and installation procedures.

Mechanical and Plumbing Systems also contains six questions. Understand the systems contractors must coordinate during commercial building construction.

Wood, Thermal and Moisture Protection, and Finishes each contain five questions.

Wood topics include framing and truss handling. Thermal and moisture protection covers roofing, insulation, and protection against water intrusion. Finishes involve gypsum systems and other commercial construction materials.

Masonry and Doors, Windows, and Glazing each contain four questions.

Electrical Systems contains three questions, emphasizing the general contractor's need to understand building-system coordination.

A strong study plan must cover every subject while giving the largest share of practice time to procurement, general requirements, and site construction.

SEO TopicArizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Prep
Official ExaminationNASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building Contractor
Exam OrganizationNASCLA
Testing ProviderPSI
Arizona Licensing AuthorityArizona Registrar of Contractors
Relevant Commercial ClassificationsB-1 and B-2
Relevant Dual ClassificationsKB-1 and KB-2
Scored Questions115
Additional Pretest Questions10
Total Items Presented125
Testing Time330 minutes
Passing Requirement81 correct scored answers
Exam FormatComputer-based, open book
Official Subject Categories12
Largest SubjectProcurement and Contracting, 31 questions
General Requirements25 questions
Site Construction15 questions
Concrete6 questions
Masonry4 questions
Metals6 questions
Wood5 questions
Thermal and Moisture Protection5 questions
Doors, Windows, Glazing4 questions
Finishes5 questions
Mechanical and Plumbing6 questions
Electrical Systems3 questions
Current IBC Edition Options2021 or 2024
NASCLA Basic Business Guide14th Edition
NASCLA EligibilityOne year
Allowed AttemptsThree during eligibility
Arizona State Rules RequirementSeparate SRE or qualifying approved waiver

How to Study for the Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam

Begin with the official NASCLA content outline. It shows the 12 subjects and exactly how many scored questions each subject receives.

Then organize your study materials by construction topic and reference book.

Contracts and Procurement: Review bidding, contract requirements, purchasing, estimating, change orders, and subcontract agreements.

General Requirements: Study commercial construction practices, building codes, accessibility, safety, project administration, and management.

Site Construction: Practice excavation, grading, site preparation, drainage, underground work, and stormwater controls.

Concrete: Review ACI requirements, reinforcing steel, placement, curing, precast work, and post-tensioning.

Masonry: Study brick, block, mortar, reinforcement, grout, and installation procedures.

Structural Metals: Review steel decking, steel joists, erection requirements, and related construction methods.

Wood Construction: Study framing, carpentry, truss handling, restraint, and bracing.

Roofing and Waterproofing: Review thermal protection, insulation, weather barriers, and roofing construction.

Doors and Windows: Study glazing, openings, accessibility, and proper installation.

Finishes: Review gypsum systems, commercial finish materials, and exterior insulation systems.

Building Systems: Understand mechanical, plumbing, and electrical coordination.

Reference Navigation: Practice locating the correct book, chapter, table, and construction detail quickly.

Contractor Exam Preps provides the NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor Online Prep Course with self-paced review, practice questions, book tabbing guidance, and a simulated final examination.

Pair your course with the Arizona NASCLA Highlighted and Tabbed Reference Set if you want a pre-organized book library.

Commercial Building Construction, Plans, and Project Coordination

NASCLA general contractors must understand how different construction systems fit together. Commercial projects involve sitework, foundations, framing, roofing, exterior walls, interior finishes, and specialty subcontractors.

Plans • sitework • structure • contracts • safety

Simplified commercial building construction and project coordination study illustration.

  • Read the plans: Identify construction systems, dimensions, details, and specifications.
  • Review the sequence: Understand sitework, foundations, framing, enclosure, and finishes.
  • Learn structural basics: Study concrete, masonry, wood, steel, and related installation practices.
  • Coordinate subcontractors: Understand the relationship between major building trades.
  • Review safety: Apply OSHA construction principles and jobsite controls.
  • Practice estimating: Calculate quantities, material needs, and construction costs.
  • Find the reference: Practice selecting the correct book for each NASCLA question.

Your Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Licensing Roadmap

Eight practical steps from license classification to Arizona contractor application.

1

Choose Your Arizona General Building Classification

Review B-1, B-2, KB-1, and KB-2. Select the scope that matches your commercial or dual contracting business.

2

Review Qualifying Party and Experience Requirements

Check the experience and documentation Arizona ROC requires for the selected classification.

3

Confirm NASCLA Trade Exam Acceptance

Verify that the NASCLA Commercial General Building result can be used in place of the Arizona-specific trade examination.

4

Apply for NASCLA Examination Eligibility

Submit the application through NASCLA's National Examination Database and wait for approval.

5

Study the Approved Reference Library

Prepare the current IBC, NASCLA Business Guide, OSHA, project management, structural construction, and specialty references.

6

Pass the PSI NASCLA Commercial General Building Exam

Complete the 330-minute open-book examination with at least 81 correct scored answers.

7

Send Your Result to Arizona ROC

Create or access your NASCLA NED account and purchase the official transcript for Arizona.

8

Complete the Arizona Contractor Application

Satisfy the SRE or approved waiver, experience, business, bonding, and other Arizona licensing requirements before contracting.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Official Exam Topic Weighting

The current NASCLA/PSI content outline divides 115 scored questions into 12 categories. These bars show each subject's share of the official scored examination.

Procurement and Contracting Requirements31 questions • 27.0%

General Requirements25 questions • 21.7%

Site Construction15 questions • 13.0%

Concrete6 questions • 5.2%

Metals6 questions • 5.2%

Mechanical and Plumbing Systems6 questions • 5.2%

Wood5 questions • 4.3%

Thermal and Moisture Protection5 questions • 4.3%

Finishes5 questions • 4.3%

Masonry4 questions • 3.5%

Doors, Windows, and Glazing4 questions • 3.5%

Electrical Systems3 questions • 2.6%

Official total: 115 scored questions.

Top three categories: Procurement and Contracting, General Requirements, and Site Construction.

Combined weight: These three subjects account for 71 questions, approximately 61.7% of the scored exam.

Pretest note: The additional 10 experimental questions do not count toward the official scored-topic totals.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Official Reference Books

The NASCLA Commercial General Building exam has an extensive approved reference library. The entries below group the main titles from the July 2026 PSI bulletin. Always check the exact accepted editions before ordering.

Book or Reference Current Edition Information Study Purpose
International Building Code 2021 or 2024 Building classifications, code requirements, construction types, occupancy, and commercial building rules.
NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management Basic 14th Edition Contracting, business practices, project management, estimating, and procurement.
Construction Jobsite Management 4th or 5th Edition Site supervision, coordination, field administration, and construction operations.
Construction Project Management 4th or 5th Edition Scheduling, budgets, contracts, project controls, and organization.
OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926 2023 with amendments or approved PSI OSHA excerpts Jobsite safety, construction hazards, fall protection, excavation safety, and worker protection.
ICC A117.1 2017 Accessible and usable buildings and facilities.
ACI 318 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete ACI 318-14 or ACI 318-19 (2022) Structural concrete and related requirements.
BCSI Wood Truss Guide 2018 updated 2020 or 2025 Handling, installing, restraining, and bracing wood trusses.
Carpentry and Building Construction 2016 Carpentry, framing, and building construction methods.
Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Construction Managers 4th Edition, 2024 Coordination of mechanical, electrical, and other building systems.
Gypsum Construction Handbook 7th Edition, 2014 Gypsum systems, commercial finishes, and installation methods.
Modern Masonry 9th Edition, 2020 Brick, block, stone, masonry techniques, and related construction.
Principles and Practices of Commercial Construction 11th Edition, 2024 General commercial construction materials, systems, and procedures.
Pipe and Excavation Contracting 2011 Earthwork, excavation, utilities, and site construction.
Roofing Construction and Estimating 1995, reprinted 2022 Roofing materials, estimating, and installation.
Placing Reinforcing Bars 10th Edition, 2019 or later printing Rebar placing, support, layout, and reinforcing practices.
Technical Digest No. 9 3rd Edition, 2008 Handling and erection of steel joists and joist girders.
Steel Deck Institute Manual of Construction with Steel Deck 2016 Steel deck installation and coordination.
Contractor's Guide to Quality Concrete Construction 4th Edition, 2018 Concrete quality, placement, curing, and project practices.
Erectors' Manual for Precast Concrete Products 2nd Edition, 1999 Precast concrete installation and erection practices.
Post-Tensioning Field Fundamentals 3rd Edition, 2003 Unbonded post-tensioning and field procedures.
Green Building Fundamentals 2nd Edition, 2011 Sustainable construction practices and building systems.
Developing Your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan EPA, 2007 Site drainage, stormwater management, and pollution prevention.
ANSI/EIMA 99-A-2017 2017 Exterior insulation and finish systems and drainage.

2026 code update: PSI currently lists the 2021 or 2024 International Building Code for NASCLA Commercial General Building testing.

Important product check: Some store packages describe alternate editions of titles such as Modern Masonry or Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Construction Managers. Verify your exact physical books against the latest bulletin before testing.

Exam room reference rules: Approved references may be highlighted, underlined, or indexed and may use permanent tabs. Loose or attached extra papers and removable tabs are prohibited.

Blueprint packet: PSI provides a physical diagram or blueprint packet at the testing center.

How to Prepare for Arizona's Open-Book NASCLA Exam

NASCLA's open-book examination lets candidates use a large library of approved references. That sounds helpful until you realize just how many books are involved.

The goal is not to carry the tallest stack. The goal is to know which book contains the answer and where to find it.

Build These Habits

  • Read the current PSI/NASCLA bulletin.
  • Verify every approved reference edition.
  • Study the 12 exam categories.
  • Give extra attention to procurement.
  • Practice contract and estimating questions.
  • Learn IBC chapter navigation.
  • Review OSHA construction safety.
  • Practice locating concrete and steel topics.
  • Prepare permitted permanent tabs.
  • Review the NASCLA Business Guide.
  • Complete timed practice exams.
  • Practice the full 330-minute schedule.

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Using an outdated reference list.
  • Assuming any IBC edition is accepted.
  • Bringing temporary Post-it tabs.
  • Adding loose notes inside books.
  • Writing new notes in books during testing.
  • Ignoring procurement and contracts.
  • Skipping site construction.
  • Confusing NASCLA with Arizona's PSI exam.
  • Assuming NASCLA is a national license.
  • Using an unapproved calculator.
  • Spending too long on one lookup.
  • Ignoring Arizona's separate SRE requirement.

Book rules: PSI permits permanent reference tabs and certain pre-existing highlighting, underlining, and indexing. Materials must otherwise follow the exact published testing restrictions.

Calculator: Use a silent, nonprinting, nonprogrammable calculator meeting PSI's requirements.

Test-day organization: Practice locating the correct book before trying to solve a question. An efficient reference library is a major advantage.

What Can an Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Do?

Passing the NASCLA Commercial General Building examination can help a qualifying applicant satisfy the trade examination requirement for an appropriate Arizona contractor classification.

The permitted construction scope depends on the actual license Arizona ROC issues.

B-1 General Commercial Contractor allows broad commercial building construction, alteration, repair, and supervision within the classification's legal definition.

General commercial contractors may coordinate building construction and manage the work of subcontractors across many construction trades.

However, certain specialty work must be subcontracted to appropriately licensed contractors. The B-1 license does not automatically permit a contractor to perform every specialized trade directly.

B-2 General Small Commercial Contractor covers commercial construction within its defined smaller project scope and monetary limitations.

KB-1 Dual Building Contractor combines the corresponding B-1 commercial and general residential contractor scopes.

KB-2 Dual Residential and Small Commercial combines the applicable B-2 small commercial and residential contractor scopes.

The NASCLA examination can be relevant to these classifications because it measures broad commercial building construction knowledge.

A general contractor must understand planning, project management, jobsite supervision, construction materials, safety, schedules, contracts, and building systems.

For example, a commercial project may require excavation, foundations, structural framing, walls, roofing, interior systems, and inspections.

The general contractor's responsibility includes organizing those activities while following the correct license scope and applicable laws.

The NASCLA exam does not determine whether a business may perform work without obtaining an Arizona contractor license.

Always confirm the requested classification and any limitations directly with Arizona ROC.

B-1: General Commercial Contractor.

B-2: General Small Commercial Contractor.

KB-1: Dual Building Contractor.

KB-2: Dual Residential and Small Commercial Contractor.

NASCLA result: Trade examination credit where approved, not an independently issued contractor license.

Arizona NASCLA and General Contractor License Comparison

Arizona has different classifications for commercial, residential, and dual building work. The NASCLA examination applies to specified commercial and dual pathways.

License or Examination Authority Primary Purpose Important Difference
B-1 General Commercial Arizona ROC Broad general commercial building contracting NASCLA Commercial General Building exam can be an accepted trade-exam alternative.
B-2 General Small Commercial Arizona ROC Small commercial building contracting NASCLA may replace the state-specific trade exam for eligible applicants.
KB-1 Dual Building Arizona ROC General commercial and residential scope Combines B-1 and general residential scopes.
KB-2 Dual Residential and Small Commercial Arizona ROC Small commercial plus residential contracting Combines B-2 and general residential scopes.
B General Residential Arizona ROC General residential contracting A separate residential-only license; the NASCLA Commercial General Building exam is not the standard substitute for this standalone classification.
Arizona-Specific General Commercial Trade Exam PSI / AZ ROC State trade qualification Different test and book list from NASCLA.
NASCLA Commercial General Building Exam NASCLA / PSI Accepted commercial general building trade exam 115 scored questions plus 10 pretest questions, 330 minutes, 81 correct to pass.
Arizona Statutes and Rules Exam AZ ROC / GMetrix State-specific contractor licensing knowledge Separate Arizona requirement, subject to applicable approved waiver rules.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Licensing Requirements

Qualifying Party and Experience

Arizona ROC Approval
  • Correct general contractor classification
  • Eligible qualifying party
  • Qualifying construction experience
  • Experience verification
  • Proper business ownership or employment arrangement
  • Classification-specific work knowledge
  • State application documentation
  • Review of any accepted alternatives

Arizona Contractor License Issuance

Separate State Requirements
  • Arizona Statutes and Rules requirement
  • Business registration and documents
  • Correct legal entity information
  • Qualifying party records
  • NASCLA transcript
  • Contractor bond
  • Required license application fees
  • Recovery Fund requirements when applicable
  • Final Arizona ROC approval

Trade exam versus license: NASCLA provides a testing pathway, while Arizona ROC issues the actual contractor license.

Exam waiver distinction: Some applicants may qualify for trade examination waivers based on prior contractor licensing. Arizona has separate rules for its state SRE and approved in-state waivers.

Before applying: Check the official requirements for your exact license classification and business structure.

Six-Week Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Prep Plan

Use the 12 NASCLA subject categories and approved references to organize six weeks of commercial general building preparation.

Week 1

Exam Setup and Book Organization

  • Confirm your Arizona license classification
  • Read the current NASCLA bulletin
  • Check all reference editions
  • Organize books by subject
  • Learn the IBC structure
  • Practice short reference lookups
Week 2

Contracts and Project Management

  • Review procurement
  • Study bidding and estimating
  • Review construction contracts
  • Practice scheduling questions
  • Study subcontract management
  • Review project documentation
Week 3

General Requirements and Sitework

  • Study OSHA construction safety
  • Review accessibility
  • Practice building code navigation
  • Study excavation and grading
  • Review drainage and stormwater
  • Practice site management questions
Week 4

Concrete, Masonry, Metals, and Wood

  • Review structural concrete
  • Study rebar and post-tensioning
  • Review masonry systems
  • Study steel joists and decking
  • Practice wood framing questions
  • Review truss installation safety
Week 5

Envelope, Finishes, and Building Systems

  • Study roofing and waterproofing
  • Review glazing and openings
  • Practice gypsum and finishes
  • Study EIFS systems
  • Review mechanical and plumbing
  • Study electrical coordination basics
Week 6

Timed Simulation and Final Review

  • Complete long practice examinations
  • Use the 330-minute time limit
  • Review wrong answers
  • Repeat high-weight categories
  • Confirm book tabs and markings
  • Review test-day logistics

How Hard Is the Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam?

The NASCLA Commercial General Building examination can be challenging because it covers so many different parts of construction.

Experienced general contractors may understand project supervision and fieldwork, but the exam also tests contracts, estimating, code navigation, safety, and technical construction methods.

The exam contains 115 scored questions and 10 extra unscored questions. Candidates receive five and a half hours to finish.

That means you need both construction knowledge and a practical method for using the reference books.

The approved library includes business and law, project management, IBC, OSHA, concrete, masonry, wood, roofing, steel, excavation, glazing, finishes, and mechanical systems.

It is not realistic to search every page of every book during testing.

Procurement and Contracting is the largest subject. Candidates who focus only on field construction and ignore contracts may miss a major part of the exam.

General Requirements and Site Construction are also heavily tested. These subjects include project administration, code issues, safety, earthwork, and jobsite operations.

Smaller categories still deserve review. Contractors should understand construction materials and how various systems interact.

A useful study method is to identify the subject, select the correct reference, locate the answer, and record any mistake for later practice.

Repeat that process with short quizzes until reference selection becomes faster.

Then practice full-length exams so that five and a half hours feels manageable.

The largest mistake is assuming open book means easy. With a large stack of construction references, preparation matters more than ever.

Picture it this way: the books are your construction crew, and you are the project manager. If you do not know which book handles which job, the whole operation slows down.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Day Checklist

Do This

  • Confirm NASCLA approval.
  • Check your PSI exam appointment.
  • Arrive 30 minutes early.
  • Bring approved government-issued identification.
  • Check every reference edition.
  • Prepare permitted permanent tabs.
  • Review the NASCLA Business Guide.
  • Practice IBC and OSHA navigation.
  • Review procurement and contracting.
  • Bring a permitted calculator.
  • Practice 125 questions in 330 minutes.
  • Save your passing score report.

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Bringing outdated reference books.
  • Using Post-it notes or removable tabs.
  • Adding loose sheets to books.
  • Writing in books during testing.
  • Bringing unauthorized materials.
  • Using an unapproved calculator.
  • Ignoring project management.
  • Skipping procurement questions.
  • Confusing NASCLA and Arizona PSI exams.
  • Assuming NASCLA grants a contractor license.
  • Forgetting the Arizona SRE.
  • Running out of time on long lookups.

Exam clock: 330 minutes for 125 presented questions, including 10 unscored pretest items.

Passing requirement: 81 correct scored answers out of 115.

Reference rules: Use approved editions and permanent tabs only. Follow all PSI restrictions.

After passing: Send your NASCLA transcript to Arizona ROC and complete the separate license application.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Prep Options from Contractor Exam Preps

Contractor Exam Preps offers online NASCLA courses, complete book sets, highlighted and tabbed books, book rentals, reference tabs, and individual business and law books.

The following options are especially relevant to Arizona candidates preparing for the NASCLA Commercial General Building examination.

NASCLA Commercial General Building Online Exam Prep Course

Lessons + Practice Questions + Exam Strategies
  • Self-paced online preparation
  • One year of access advertised
  • Targeted practice questions
  • Simulated final practice exam
  • Open-book testing techniques
  • Highlighting and tabbing guidance
  • Contracts and procurement practice
  • Project management review
  • Building code study
  • Commercial construction topics
  • Books sold separately unless a package states otherwise

View NASCLA Online Exam Prep Course

Arizona NASCLA Highlighted and Tabbed Complete Book Set

Pre-Organized Open-Book Reference Package
  • Commercial building reference books
  • Pre-applied highlighting
  • Permanent navigation tabs
  • Construction code references
  • Project management references
  • Safety and structural references
  • Concrete, masonry, and steel topics
  • Carpentry, roofing, and finishes
  • Book navigation support
  • Special handling time may apply
  • Confirm each included edition before the exam

View Highlighted and Tabbed NASCLA Book Set

Arizona rental option: The Arizona NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor Book Rental provides a rental-based alternative to buying every reference.

Complete preparation: The NASCLA Complete Exam Prep Package combines reference books, online preparation, and navigation materials.

Permanent tabs: Review the NASCLA Commercial General Building Pre-Printed Tabs.

Business Guide: The NASCLA Business, Law and Project Management Basic 14th Edition is a major reference for contract and administrative topics.

Before ordering: Verify the live PSI book list, product contents, shipping times, rental terms, and approved editions.

ARIZONA NASCLA GENERAL CONTRACTOR EXAM PREP COMMERCIAL BUILDING Exam preparation graphic • Not a state-issued license

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Prep

This Arizona-specific credential-style illustration includes an Arizona silhouette, construction sun, commercial building frame, structural elements, crane, hard hat, and project blueprints.

It represents commercial general building contractor exam preparation. It is not an official NASCLA certification, license, or Arizona-issued credential.

• Arizona Registrar of Contractors

• NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building Exam

• B-1 General Commercial

• B-2 General Small Commercial

• KB-1 Dual Building

• KB-2 Dual Residential and Small Commercial

• PSI examination

• 115 scored questions

• 10 unscored pretest questions

• 330-minute exam

• 81 correct scored answers to pass

• Open-book reference library

• Construction project management

• Estimating and contracting

• Building codes and accessibility

• Site construction and safety

• Concrete, masonry, steel, and wood

• Roofing and building finishes

• Mechanical and electrical coordination

• Arizona Statutes and Rules licensing requirements

Prepare with the official NASCLA blueprint and the book editions currently allowed by PSI.

Explore NASCLA Complete Exam Prep

Frequently Asked Questions

Arizona NASCLA Licensing Basics

NASCLA stands for the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies.

Yes. Arizona recognizes the NASCLA Commercial General Building exam as an alternative trade examination for specified commercial and dual general building contractor license classifications.

The applicable categories include B-1 General Commercial, B-2 General Small Commercial, KB-1 Dual Building, and KB-2 Dual Residential and Small Commercial. Verify your exact classification with AZ ROC.

No. Passing NASCLA provides a trade examination result. You must still apply for and receive the appropriate Arizona ROC contractor license.

The Commercial General Building NASCLA exam is an alternative for the specified commercial and dual building categories. It is not the standard replacement for the standalone B General Residential trade examination.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors issues the contractor license after reviewing the complete application.

NASCLA PSI Examination Format

PSI administers the examination after NASCLA approves the candidate's application.

The examination contains 115 scored questions.

Yes. PSI adds 10 unscored pretest questions, bringing the possible number presented to 125.

The examination allows 330 minutes, which equals five hours and thirty minutes.

You need at least 81 correct answers out of the 115 scored questions.

Yes. The Commercial General Building examination allows the references listed in the current PSI bulletin.

Procurement and Contracting Requirements has 31 questions, General Requirements has 25, and Site Construction has 15.

The official outline contains 12 categories, covering construction management, technical trades, sitework, building systems, and contracting.

NASCLA Reference Books

The July 2026 PSI bulletin permits the 2021 or 2024 International Building Code.

The official reference list identifies the NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Basic 14th Edition.

Yes. OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926 is an approved construction safety reference, with edition and excerpt options specified in the bulletin.

Yes. PSI allows approved references to be highlighted, underlined, or indexed before testing, subject to its restrictions.

Yes. PSI permits properly attached permanent tabs on approved reference books.

No. Temporary tabs and loose or attached extra papers are not permitted.

Yes. The current bulletin says PSI provides a physical diagram or blueprint packet onsite.

No. Candidates must arrange their approved references. The testing center provides the identified blueprint packet, not the full book library.

Arizona Application and Fees

Apply through NASCLA's National Examination Database. After approval, PSI provides examination scheduling instructions.

NASCLA's current application instructions list a $65 application fee. Confirm the amount before checkout.

The July 2026 PSI candidate bulletin lists a $130 examination fee. Use the current PSI registration page for the amount charged when scheduling.

NASCLA's current National Examination Database information lists $45 per electronic state agency transcript.

NASCLA approval provides one year of examination eligibility.

NASCLA permits up to three attempts during the one-year eligibility period, subject to its reapplication rules.

NASCLA's Arizona participating-agency information says the examination date on the transcript must be within the preceding two years.

The Arizona SRE covers state-specific contractor statutes and regulations through an online course and examination administered using GMetrix. It is separate from the NASCLA trade exam.

Arizona provides specific trade examination and in-state Statutes and Rules waiver processes for qualifying applicants. The Registrar decides whether a waiver applies.

Contractor Exam Preps Products

Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers an Arizona NASCLA Commercial General Building Complete Book Set and a separate highlighted and tabbed version.

Yes. The NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor Online Prep Course includes guided preparation, practice questions, book navigation help, and exam techniques.

Yes. Contractor Exam Preps lists an Arizona NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor Book Rental. Check the rental duration, deposit, delivery, and return terms before ordering.

Yes. The store sells a NASCLA Commercial General Building Pre-Printed Tabs set designed to support reference navigation.

The advertised NASCLA Complete Exam Prep package includes reference books and online study resources. Confirm the exact edition and package details at purchase.

NASCLA states that it does not endorse independent third-party preparatory schools. Commercial prep resources are study aids, not official licenses or guarantees of passing.

Watch: NASCLA Examination Commercial General Building Contractor by 1 Exam Prep

Watch this 1 Exam Prep YouTube video for an overview of the NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor examination and how organized preparation can help candidates review construction references, practice test questions, and develop open-book exam strategies. The video is an introduction, so use the current 2026 PSI bulletin for updated examination details and book editions.

Video: NASCLA Examination Commercial General Building Contractor.

Channel: 1Exam Prep.

Related subjects: NASCLA contractor examinations, commercial general building licensing, reference books, online preparation, and practice testing.

Current exam reminder: The July 2026 bulletin lists 115 scored questions, 10 unscored pretest questions, 330 minutes, and 81 correct scored answers to pass.

Arizona licensing note: Passing the NASCLA examination may fulfill an accepted trade examination requirement, but AZ ROC issues the license only after the remaining state requirements are met.

Watch the NASCLA video on YouTube.

Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Prep Resources

Use Contractor Exam Preps for NASCLA reference books, online courses, rental packages, and construction exam preparation. Use NASCLA, PSI, and Arizona ROC for current examination and license requirements.

Trade examination: NASCLA Commercial General Building Contractor, 115 scored questions, 10 unscored pretest questions, 330 minutes, 81 correct to pass.

Arizona licensing: NASCLA may be used for approved B-1, B-2, KB-1, and KB-2 application pathways.

Core books: International Building Code, NASCLA Business Guide, project management, OSHA, and commercial construction technical references.

State requirement: Arizona's Statutes and Rules requirement is separate from the NASCLA trade examination.

Before buying or scheduling: Check the current PSI bulletin and Arizona ROC instructions, especially book editions, fees, transcript requirements, and license classification.

Ready for Arizona NASCLA General Contractor Exam Prep?

Prepare for the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors with stronger knowledge of procurement, contracting, estimating, project management, building codes, safety, site construction, concrete, masonry, metals, wood framing, roofing, finishes, and building systems.

Study the official 115-scored-question examination, including the additional 10 unscored questions, and practice working through the complete 330-minute testing period.

Use the approved reference library efficiently. Learn how to identify the correct book, find the needed chapter, read technical requirements, and complete calculations before the clock runs out.

Make procurement and contracting, general requirements, and site construction a central part of your preparation because they account for 71 scored questions.

Remember that NASCLA is an examination pathway, not a contractor license. Arizona applicants must still meet their classification, qualifying party, experience, business, Statutes and Rules, bonding, and application requirements.

Contractor Exam Preps offers Arizona NASCLA complete reference sets, highlighted and tabbed books, rentals, online preparation, and related business and law materials.

Choose the exam path that fits your Arizona licensing goals, confirm the current PSI book list, and build your study plan around the actual examination outline.

Good preparation is not about carrying more books. It is about knowing which book to open, finding the answer efficiently, and understanding the commercial construction work behind each question.

Find more construction licensing and contractor exam preparation at ContractorExamPreps.com.