Nevada State Contractors Board • PSI Class B • 80 Questions • 3 Hours • 70% Passing • 2018 IBC • Concrete • Masonry • Steel • Building Construction
Planning to become a licensed Nevada General Building Contractor? This complete guide explains the Nevada Class B contractor license, PSI trade examination, approved reference books, work experience, application requirements, construction subjects, business and law testing, and study products from Contractor Exam Preps.
General building contractors are responsible for some of the most complicated construction projects.
They coordinate multiple building trades, manage schedules, understand plans, organize workers, oversee materials, and help make sure construction follows approved requirements.
In Nevada, general building contractors may work on offices, retail centers, hotels, apartment buildings, warehouses, and other construction projects within their license and project requirements.
A contractor might begin the morning reviewing concrete forms, spend lunch discussing structural steel deliveries, and finish the afternoon checking moisture protection around the building exterior.
That is a lot of responsibility for one hard hat!
Becoming licensed requires more than understanding one construction trade.
Nevada Class B exam preparation includes sitework, concrete, masonry, structural metals, carpentry, thermal and moisture protection, doors and windows, drywall, finishing work, safety, plan reading, estimating, and Nevada One Call.
Understanding how these subjects fit together is central to general building work.
The Class B General Building license is a contractor classification issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board.
Under Nevada law, general building contracting involves constructing or remodeling buildings or structures where construction requires more than two unrelated building trades or crafts.
The contractor generally acts as a prime contractor, and construction or remodeling of the building is the primary purpose of the project.
This means a Class B contractor may oversee projects involving multiple construction systems and specialty subcontractors.
Those systems can include foundations, framing, concrete, masonry, structural steel, roofing, insulation, wall systems, and interior finishes.
However, there are important limits.
A Nevada B contractor cannot automatically perform specialty plumbing, electrical, refrigeration and air-conditioning, or fire-protection work without the appropriate specialty license.
The authority to coordinate licensed specialty subcontractors is different from personally performing restricted specialty work.
The Nevada State Contractors Board is the agency responsible for contractor licensing.
The Board reviews applications, determines qualifying individual requirements, evaluates experience, and handles financial responsibility requirements.
It also determines whether applicants are eligible to take the required examinations.
After the application is reviewed and testing authorization is issued, candidates schedule their examinations through PSI.
PSI administers the Class B General Building trade examination.
Applicants generally must also satisfy the separate Nevada Contractor Management Survey examination, commonly called the CMS business and law exam.
These are two different examinations with different subject matter.
The Nevada B General Building Contractor trade examination contains 80 scored questions.
Candidates have three hours, or 180 minutes, to complete the examination.
The minimum passing score is 56 correct answers.
That equals 70%.
With 180 minutes available, candidates average approximately two minutes and fifteen seconds per scored question.
Some questions may involve basic construction knowledge.
Others may require reading drawings, calculating material quantities, or locating technical code provisions.
PSI may include unscored questions that are not identified during testing, so candidates should follow the current bulletin and answer every question seriously.
Yes. The Nevada B General Building trade examination is open book, with specifically approved references.
The current approved reference list includes:
The 2018 IBC is the primary general building-code reference.
ACI 318 helps with structural concrete questions.
ACI 530/530.1 helps with masonry construction questions.
Other books on OSHA safety, steel joists, gypsum construction, excavation, field concrete practices, and Nevada One Call may be listed as technical study references but are not automatically approved for the examination room.
For an exam-room-focused set, Contractor Exam Preps offers the Nevada General Building Contractor B Books Allowed into Exam Package.
The official Class B examination blueprint contains eleven technical categories.
These eleven categories total 80 scored questions.
Concrete, Metals, and General Code, Plan Reading, and Estimating are the three largest categories at 12 questions each.
Together, they account for 36 of the 80 questions.
Thermal and Moisture Protection adds another nine questions.
These large categories deserve significant study time, but every subject matters.
Sitework is the starting point for many building projects.
Before foundations are placed, contractors may need to address grading, excavation, soil conditions, drainage, utilities, access, and site safety.
Students should review construction layout, excavation procedures, trenching, compaction, and foundation preparation.
Understand how poor site preparation can affect the building structure.
Study the relationship between underground utilities and construction excavation.
Sitework accounts for six questions on the current Class B outline.
Concrete is one of the largest examination subjects.
It accounts for 12 questions.
Students should understand footings, foundations, slabs, walls, reinforcement, formwork, placement, curing, and construction joints.
Review the basic roles of concrete and reinforcing steel.
Understand how concrete strength, reinforcement details, and construction practices influence structural performance.
The approved ACI 318 reference supports structural concrete code study.
Students should also review practical field installation concepts before the exam.
Masonry accounts for six questions.
Important topics include concrete masonry units, brick, mortar, grout, reinforcement, masonry walls, openings, connections, and construction details.
Study how masonry interacts with other structural systems.
Understand basic masonry terminology and material behavior.
The approved ACI 530/530.1 reference contains masonry design and construction requirements relevant to examination preparation.
Metals is another 12-question subject.
Students should review structural steel members, steel connections, erection procedures, steel joists, metal decking, and related construction concepts.
Understand the relationship between drawings, structural members, connections, and installation methods.
Know why temporary bracing and proper erection sequencing are important.
Study handling and erection of steel joists and joist girders.
These topics can also involve safety and inspection considerations.
Carpentry accounts for seven questions.
Review wood framing, wall systems, floors, roofs, sheathing, openings, headers, fastening, and building layout.
Learn how framing is represented on construction drawings.
Understand how carpentry connects foundations to roof and wall systems.
Review dimensional lumber, engineered wood, wood trusses, and installation precautions.
Carpentry knowledge helps contractors understand construction sequencing.
Thermal and Moisture Protection represents nine questions.
Students should review insulation, roofing, weatherproofing, waterproofing, vapor control, flashing, and building-envelope installation.
Understand how walls and roofs resist weather.
Study how moisture can enter a structure and how construction assemblies manage it.
These subjects are especially important when coordinating roofing, siding, windows, and exterior building components.
A good building envelope should prevent unwanted water intrusion while meeting the applicable design requirements.
Doors and Windows contributes four questions.
Students should understand openings, frames, installation practices, flashing, hardware, structural coordination, and weather resistance.
Review door and window schedules on construction drawings.
Study the role of doors in access and life safety.
Learn why rough-opening accuracy affects the quality of installation.
Drywall and Finishes accounts for four questions.
Topics may include gypsum board, fastening, interior partitions, ceiling systems, finishing materials, and construction coordination.
Review how interior finish systems connect to framing and fire-resistance requirements.
Study basic installation methods and defect prevention.
Safety accounts for five questions.
General building contractors must understand jobsite hazards, scaffolds, ladders, fall protection, excavation safety, material handling, and protective equipment.
Students should review OSHA construction safety principles, particularly those applicable to major building operations.
Hazard recognition is important even when work is performed by subcontractors.
Contractors need to plan projects with worker and public safety in mind.
This category accounts for 12 questions.
Students need to understand how to read architectural and structural drawings.
Review floor plans, elevations, sections, details, symbols, dimensions, and schedules.
Learn the difference between general notes and project-specific details.
Practice estimating materials from drawings.
Work through measurements involving area, volume, length, quantities, and material takeoffs.
Learn how to locate appropriate building-code provisions.
Good plan reading helps prevent work from being installed in the wrong location.
Good estimating helps prevent construction budgets from turning into unpleasant surprises.
Nevada One Call represents three questions.
Students should understand the purpose of locating underground utilities before digging.
Review safe excavation planning and the need to protect existing buried facilities.
Know why excavation notices and utility markings are important.
Utility damage can create safety hazards, service interruptions, delays, and repair costs.
General building contractors should coordinate excavation carefully.
The full Nevada B General Building classification is different from B-2 Residential and Small Commercial.
B is the broader general building classification.
B-2 covers qualifying residential and small commercial work under its specified building size limits.
The B-2 classification includes structures that do not extend more than three stories above ground and one story below ground.
Both examinations involve broad construction knowledge, but they have separate examination outlines and approved references.
Candidates should not purchase a B-2 book package assuming it automatically matches the full B examination.
The Nevada State Contractors Board generally requires the trade qualifying individual to document four years of qualifying experience within the 15 years immediately before the application.
Acceptable experience may include work at a journeyman level or as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor within the requested classification.
Qualifying education may count toward part of the experience requirement under Nevada's rules.
Applicants should review the current application to determine what experience certificates, resumes, and supporting records are required.
Experience should match general building construction, not just an unrelated trade.
The Nevada State Contractors Board lists a $300 contractor application processing fee.
After approval, the Board lists a $600 biennial license fee.
Applicants must also satisfy the applicable financial responsibility requirements.
The Board determines the required contractor license bond amount.
Workers' compensation compliance or an applicable exemption may be required.
Examination payments, reference books, insurance, and other costs are separate.
Always use the current Board fee schedule before submitting an application.
The Contractor Management Survey, or CMS examination, covers Nevada contractor business and law.
This examination is separate from the Class B General Building trade test.
Applicants should prepare for topics such as licensing laws, business organization, contracts, financial management, employment responsibilities, project administration, and compliance.
The applicable reference is the Construction Business and Law Manual for Nevada, as identified in the current PSI bulletin.
Passing the trade examination alone is not enough if the CMS requirement still applies.
Nevada recognizes a possible alternative for eligible General Building applicants.
The Nevada State Contractors Board states that candidates who have passed the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors can seek a waiver of the state-specific B trade examination.
Applicants must send the required official examination transcript through NASCLA's National Examination Database.
The waiver applies to the eligible trade examination requirement.
It does not automatically waive Nevada business and law, experience, financial, bond, and other licensing requirements.
Contractor Exam Preps offers a Nevada NASCLA Commercial General Building Book Set for candidates studying the separate NASCLA path.
NASCLA has a different examination format, time limit, and reference list from Nevada's standard B examination.
Contractor Exam Preps offers several directly relevant Nevada B General Building products.
The Nevada B Books Allowed into Exam Package includes the 2018 IBC, ACI 318-14, and ACI 530/530.1-13 references.
The Nevada B Highlighted and Tabbed Books Allowed into Exam Package provides prepared references for organized code navigation.
The Nevada B Highlighted and Tabbed Book Package offers a broader study option.
The Nevada B Books and Course Rental Package combines exam-room reference rentals with training options.
There are also Nevada B Books and Courses Rental Packages for broader preparation.
Choose a product based on whether you need only approved books or a combination of references, training, and study support.
Start by confirming the Class B classification and your current PSI examination authorization.
Review the official content outline.
Obtain the permitted code references.
Learn how to navigate the 2018 IBC and the approved ACI concrete and masonry publications.
Study the construction process from sitework through structural systems, building enclosure, and finishes.
Practice construction drawings and material estimates.
Complete timed 80-question review sessions using the three-hour examination limit.
Review errors and repeat weak topics.
Include the separate CMS business and law examination in your preparation plan.
With steady study, correct references, and practical construction knowledge, candidates can approach the examination more confidently.
Important Nevada B General Building Contractor 2026 Update: The full Nevada Class B General Building trade examination is administered by PSI after authorization from the Nevada State Contractors Board. The exam contains 80 scored questions, allows three hours, and requires 56 correct answers to pass. It is open book with specified references: the 2018 International Building Code, approved ACI 318 concrete editions, and approved ACI 530/530.1 masonry editions. Other trade publications are study-only unless the current bulletin permits them. Full Class B is not the same as B-2 Residential and Small Commercial. Qualified applicants who have passed the NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building examination may use the Board's NASCLA trade-exam waiver process, but separate licensing requirements remain.
A Nevada Class B General Building Contractor is a licensed contractor whose principal business involves constructing or remodeling buildings requiring more than two unrelated building trades or crafts.
Building construction or remodeling must be the primary purpose of the project.
The Class B contractor generally acts as the prime contractor, coordinating the different parts of the building project.
Typical project responsibilities include construction planning, scheduling, materials, subcontractor coordination, quality control, code compliance, and jobsite safety.
The classification covers broad building construction work but does not erase specialty licensing laws.
Electrical, plumbing, refrigeration and air-conditioning, and fire-protection work require the appropriate specialty license when performed directly, subject to statutory exceptions.
Classification: Nevada B General Building.
Licensing agency: Nevada State Contractors Board.
Trade exam provider: PSI.
Main project type: Buildings involving more than two unrelated trades.
Role: General building prime contractor and project coordinator.
Separate specialty licenses: Required for applicable restricted specialty work.
| Step or Requirement | Nevada Information | What to Prepare |
|---|---|---|
| State | Nevada | Identify intended general building work. |
| License Classification | B General Building | Confirm correct classification. |
| Licensing Agency | Nevada State Contractors Board | Use official application forms. |
| Trade Exam Provider | PSI | Wait for testing authorization. |
| Trade Examination | B General Building | Study the current B blueprint. |
| Scored Questions | 80 | Practice 80-question exams. |
| Time Allowed | Three Hours | Practice 180-minute sessions. |
| Passing Answers | 56 | Target 70% or higher. |
| Trade Exam Format | Open Book | Follow PSI reference rules. |
| Building Code | 2018 IBC | Practice code navigation. |
| Concrete Reference | ACI 318-11 or ACI 318-14 | Study structural concrete. |
| Masonry Reference | ACI 530/530.1-11 or -13 | Study structural masonry. |
| Sitework | 6 Questions | Excavation, grading and foundations. |
| Concrete | 12 Questions | Reinforcement and placement. |
| Masonry | 6 Questions | Block, brick and structural masonry. |
| Metals | 12 Questions | Structural steel and erection. |
| Carpentry | 7 Questions | Framing and wood systems. |
| Thermal and Moisture | 9 Questions | Building envelope and insulation. |
| Doors and Windows | 4 Questions | Openings and installation. |
| Drywall and Finishes | 4 Questions | Gypsum systems and finishes. |
| Safety | 5 Questions | OSHA construction concepts. |
| General Code, Plans and Estimating | 12 Questions | Drawings and quantity takeoffs. |
| Nevada One Call | 3 Questions | Underground utility safety. |
| Business and Law | CMS Examination | Separate Nevada management and law study. |
| Trade Qualifier | Qualified Individual | Identify responsible trade qualifier. |
| Experience Requirement | Four Years Generally | Within preceding 15 years. |
| Education Credit | May Be Allowed | Confirm Board acceptance. |
| Application Processing Fee | $300 | Submit with official application. |
| Biennial License Fee | $600 | Pay after approval. |
| Financial Responsibility | Required | Provide required records. |
| Contractor Bond | Board-Determined | Follow Board approval letter. |
| Workers' Compensation | Compliance or Exemption | Submit required proof. |
| NASCLA Trade Waiver | Potential Alternative | Submit official qualifying NASCLA transcript. |
| B-2 Classification | Separate Residential and Small Commercial | Do not mix the exams. |
| Specialty Work | Appropriate Licenses Required | Coordinate authorized trades. |
| Detail | Category | Published Information |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Name | Trade | B General Building |
| State | License | Nevada |
| Testing Provider | Testing | PSI |
| Number of Questions | Format | 80 Scored |
| Time | Format | Three Hours |
| Minutes | Format | 180 |
| Passing Requirement | Scoring | 56 Correct |
| Passing Percentage | Scoring | 70% |
| Exam Type | References | Open Book |
| Building Code | Approved Book | 2018 International Building Code |
| Concrete Code | Approved Book | ACI 318-11 or ACI 318-14 |
| Masonry Code | Approved Book | ACI 530/530.1-11 or -13 |
| Sitework | Blueprint | 6 |
| Concrete | Blueprint | 12 |
| Masonry | Blueprint | 6 |
| Metals | Blueprint | 12 |
| Carpentry | Blueprint | 7 |
| Thermal and Moisture Protection | Blueprint | 9 |
| Doors and Windows | Blueprint | 4 |
| Drywall and Finishes | Blueprint | 4 |
| Safety | Blueprint | 5 |
| General Code, Plan Reading and Estimating | Blueprint | 12 |
| Nevada One Call | Blueprint | 3 |
| Blueprint Total | Testing | 80 |
| OSHA Publications | Study | Not Listed as Approved B Trade Exam References |
| Gypsum Publications | Study | Supplemental Study Only |
| Steel Joist Reference | Study | Supplemental Study Only |
| Business and Law Exam | Separate Test | Contractor Management Survey |
| NASCLA Alternative | Waiver | Potential B Trade Exam Waiver |
| Class B Versus B-2 | License | Different Classifications |
Trade exam: Nevada PSI B General Building.
Scored questions: 80.
Time: Three hours.
Passing: 56 correct answers.
Approved references: 2018 IBC and specified ACI concrete and masonry editions.
Excavation, grading, earthwork, foundation preparation, utility planning, and soil-related construction.
Concrete materials, formwork, reinforcement, structural elements, concrete placement, curing, and code requirements.
Brick, block, mortar, grout, reinforced masonry, walls, openings, and masonry installation.
Structural steel, steel members, metal connections, steel joists, decking, handling, and erection.
Wood framing, floors, walls, roofs, sheathing, openings, fastening, and construction details.
Insulation, roofing, waterproofing, flashing, weather barriers, and building-envelope protection.
Door and window installation, openings, frames, hardware, flashing, and related requirements.
Gypsum systems, interior wall and ceiling finishes, installation practices, and finishing work.
OSHA construction safety concepts, fall protection, excavation hazards, scaffolds, and protective equipment.
Building-code provisions, construction drawings, material quantities, measurements, and estimates.
Utility locating, excavation notices, underground facility protection, and safe digging practices.
Largest categories: Concrete, Metals, and General Code/Plan Reading/Estimating.
Each largest category: 12 questions.
Combined: 36 of 80 questions.
Official exam outline total: 80 questions.
Begin by confirming that you are preparing for the full B General Building classification.
Read the official Nevada State Contractors Board application instructions and current PSI examination bulletin.
Get the correct code editions listed for your exam.
Practice navigating the 2018 International Building Code.
Review the approved ACI 318 structural concrete code.
Become familiar with the approved ACI 530 masonry reference.
Study the eleven official examination subjects.
Prioritize concrete, structural metals, plan reading, and estimating because these are the three largest categories.
Study thermal and moisture protection next, then cover sitework, masonry, carpentry, safety, openings, finishes, and Nevada One Call.
Practice drawing interpretation, construction measurements, and material quantities.
Complete repeated timed exams.
Review mistakes and locate the applicable reference section.
The Nevada B Books Allowed into Exam Package provides the principal exam-room references.
The Nevada B Highlighted and Tabbed Books offers organized reference preparation.
First: Confirm Class B PSI requirements.
Second: Learn the approved IBC and ACI references.
Third: Study all eleven content areas.
Fourth: Practice plans, estimates, concrete, and metals.
Fifth: Complete 80-question simulations in three hours.
A Class B General Building Contractor needs to understand how multiple construction systems support a completed building.
This simplified illustration shows the sequence of site preparation, structural support, framing, enclosure, and building finishes.
Simplified educational construction sequence. Actual work must follow approved project documents, local codes, inspections, and qualified trade requirements.
Identify the buildings and projects your business plans to construct. Compare B with B-2, B-6, and other classifications.
Determine who satisfies the applicable trade and management qualifications.
Organize evidence of four years of relevant experience within the applicable previous 15-year period.
Provide the Board's required forms, experience records, background information, financial information, and application fee.
Follow the Board's instructions to schedule the required trade and business examinations.
Practice general construction knowledge, approved building references, plan reading, estimating, and Nevada business and law.
Pass the required Class B and CMS examinations or complete an accepted NASCLA or endorsement-based trade waiver process.
Meet financial responsibility, bond, workers' compensation, payment, and any other Board requirements before operating under the license.
The following values follow the published PSI Class B content outline. Percentages are calculated from 80 scored questions.
Total: 80 questions, 100%.
Largest categories: Concrete, Metals, and General Code/Plan Reading/Estimating.
Combined largest categories: 45% of scored questions.
Passing requirement: 56 of 80.
Not every book appearing on a PSI examination reference list may be taken into the examination center.
The three permitted code-reference families should receive special attention during open-book practice.
| Reference | Edition | Examination Use |
|---|---|---|
| International Building Code | 2018 | Allowed B trade examination reference. |
| Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary | ACI 318-11 or ACI 318-14 | Allowed specified concrete edition. |
| Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures | ACI 530/530.1-11 or -13 | Allowed specified masonry edition. |
| OSHA Construction Safety | 29 CFR Part 1926 | Technical study only for the B trade exam. |
| Handling and Erection of Steel Joists and Joist Girders | Technical Digest No. 9 | Study only. |
| Pipe and Excavation Contracting | Applicable Study Edition | Sitework and excavation study only. |
| Gypsum Construction Handbook | Seventh Edition | Drywall and finishes study only. |
| Modern Masonry: Brick, Block, Stone | Applicable PSI-Listed Edition | Masonry study only. |
| Contractor's Guide to Quality Concrete Construction | Fourth Edition, 2018 | Field concrete study only. |
| Training and Certification of Field Personnel for Unbonded Post-Tensioning | Level 1, Third Edition | Post-tensioning study only. |
| Nevada One Call Information | Current | Underground utility safety study only. |
| Construction Business and Law Manual for Nevada | Current PSI-Listed Edition | Separate CMS business and law preparation. |
Exam room: 2018 IBC and the specified ACI concrete and masonry references.
Study room: OSHA, steel joists, excavation, gypsum, masonry field books, concrete field books, and Nevada One Call materials.
Business and law: Separate CMS examination with its own reference rules.
The Nevada B trade examination is open book, but the available books are limited.
Candidates should become familiar with the IBC, ACI 318, and ACI 530/530.1 before testing.
Practice deciding which reference applies to a question.
Broad building-code questions often lead to the IBC.
Structural concrete questions may require ACI 318.
Structural masonry questions may require ACI 530.
Practice using tables of contents, indexes, headings, tables, and code definitions.
Only use highlighting, tabs, and reference preparation that complies with PSI rules.
Temporary tabs, loose papers, and handwritten notes may be prohibited.
Do not depend on searching all three books for every answer.
With 80 questions and three hours, strong construction knowledge and disciplined timing are essential.
The Nevada B General Building classification authorizes qualifying general building contracting activities within its legal scope.
The work generally involves building construction or remodeling requiring more than two unrelated trades, with the Class B contractor serving as the prime contractor.
Examples may include coordinating concrete foundations, structural steel, masonry, carpentry, weatherproofing, openings, and finishing work.
General building contractors may manage specialty subcontractors as part of a project.
However, direct performance of certain specialty trades requires the appropriate specialty license.
Electrical, plumbing, refrigeration and air-conditioning, and fire-protection work have particular restrictions.
Always review the applicable Nevada statutes, project scope, subcontractor licensing, permit requirements, and Board rules.
Building scope: Multiple unrelated trades.
Project role: Prime contractor.
Construction purpose: Building or remodeling structures.
Specialty coordination: Use appropriately licensed subcontractors.
Legal restrictions: Direct specialty work may require additional licenses.
| Classification | Main Focus | Important Difference |
|---|---|---|
| B General Building | Full general building construction and remodeling. | Broader building classification involving more than two unrelated trades. |
| B-2 Residential and Small Commercial | Qualifying residential and small commercial buildings. | Subject to specified height and basement limitations. |
| B-3 Speculative Building | Construction on contractor-owned property for sale or speculation. | Specialized general building subclassification. |
| B-5 Prefabricated Steel Structures | Prefabricated steel structures. | Focused on qualifying steel building construction. |
| B-6 Commercial Remodeling | Commercial interior remodeling. | Different scope and examination requirements. |
| B-7 Residential Remodeling | Qualifying residential remodeling. | Separate residential remodeling classification. |
| A General Engineering | Engineering-related works such as infrastructure. | Different construction scope and trade test. |
| C Specialty Contractors | Specific trades such as roofing, electrical, or plumbing. | Separate specialty licensing authority for restricted work. |
| NASCLA Commercial General Building | Accredited multi-jurisdiction trade examination. | May support Nevada B trade-exam waiver, not automatic licensing. |
80 Questions • 3 Hours • 70% Passing
Experience • Management • Application
Bond • Financial Requirements • NASCLA
This plan follows the PSI Class B outline and builds exam-room reference navigation skills.
The Nevada Class B examination can be challenging because it covers many construction trades.
Someone may be excellent at framing but less familiar with reinforced concrete.
Another candidate may know masonry well but struggle with structural steel or estimating.
The Class B examination measures construction knowledge across eleven categories.
Concrete, Metals, and General Code/Plan Reading/Estimating are especially important because each contributes 12 questions.
Candidates also need to know how to use the approved IBC and ACI books.
The test allows three hours for 80 scored questions.
That makes time management an important part of preparation.
Complete timed practice tests and identify questions that take too long.
Work on estimating problems, structural code navigation, and the subjects that are least familiar.
The Nevada B Approved Book Set provides the core reference books.
The Nevada B Books and Courses Rental Package offers a broader preparation option.
Contractor Exam Preps offers several Nevada General Building resources for candidates who need codebooks, prepared references, courses, and book rentals.
Choose the preparation option that matches your study needs and exam approval.
2018 IBC • ACI Concrete • ACI Masonry
Best for: Candidates needing the three listed exam-room reference books rather than a large technical study collection.
Prepared References • Faster Code Navigation
Best for: Candidates who want codebooks prepared for easier review and practice. All markings and tabs must comply with PSI rules.
Reference Rental • Training • Study Support
Best for: Candidates who want to combine reference books with structured training. Review the product page for current included services and rental terms.
Exam-room-only set: Nevada B Books Allowed into Exam Package.
Prepared codebooks: Nevada B Highlighted and Tabbed Books Allowed into Exam.
Book and training combination: Nevada B Books and Course Rental.
Separate alternative examination: NASCLA Commercial General Building.
Availability: Check the store's current product pages.
Nevada B General Building Contractor study product from Contractor Exam Preps.
General Building Construction, Licensing, PSI Testing, and Reference Topics
• Nevada B General Building
• Nevada State Contractors Board
• PSI General Building Examination
• 80 Scored Exam Questions
• Three-Hour Examination
• 56 Correct to Pass
• 70% Passing Score
• Open-Book Trade Examination
• International Building Code 2018
• ACI 318 Structural Concrete
• ACI 530 Masonry
• General Building Construction
• Prime Contractor Responsibilities
• Sitework and Grading
• Earthwork
• Excavation
• Soil Compaction
• Site Drainage
• Trench Safety
• Nevada One Call
• Construction Layout
• Foundations
• Concrete Footings
• Concrete Walls
• Concrete Slabs
• Formwork
• Concrete Reinforcement
• Reinforcing Steel
• Concrete Placement
• Concrete Curing
• Concrete Construction Quality
• Post-Tensioning
• Brick Masonry
• Concrete Block Masonry
• Mortar and Grout
• Reinforced Masonry
• Masonry Walls
• Structural Steel
• Steel Beams
• Steel Columns
• Steel Connections
• Steel Joists
• Joist Girders
• Metal Decking
• Steel Erection
• Wood Framing
• Floor Framing
• Wall Framing
• Roof Framing
• Roof Trusses
• Wood Sheathing
• Building Fasteners
• Building Envelope
• Thermal Insulation
• Waterproofing
• Roofing Systems
• Moisture Barriers
• Roof and Wall Flashing
• Door Installation
• Window Installation
• Rough Openings
• Door and Window Schedules
• Drywall Installation
• Gypsum Board
• Interior Finishes
• Ceilings and Partitions
• Building Occupancy
• Construction Types
• Fire and Life Safety
• Means of Egress
• Construction Plans
• Architectural Drawings
• Structural Drawings
• Building Sections
• Construction Details
• Material Takeoffs
• Construction Estimating
• OSHA Construction Safety
• Fall Protection
• Scaffold Safety
• Jobsite Hazard Recognition
• Construction Scheduling
• Subcontractor Coordination
• Construction Quality Control
• Nevada Contractor Application
• Four Years Qualifying Experience
• Qualifying Individual
• Contractor Management Survey
• Nevada Business and Law
• Financial Responsibility
• Contractor License Bond
• Workers' Compensation Requirements
• NASCLA Exam Waiver
• Nevada B Versus B-2
• Contractor Exam Preps Books
• Highlighted and Tabbed References
• Nevada Class B Rental Packages
• Timed PSI Practice Examinations
Nevada General Building Contractor Licensing
It is a Nevada contractor classification for qualifying building construction and remodeling projects generally involving more than two unrelated building trades, with the contractor acting as a prime contractor.
The Nevada State Contractors Board reviews applications, determines qualifications, and issues approved Class B General Building contractor licenses.
B is the broader General Building classification. B-2 Residential and Small Commercial applies to qualifying structures subject to its specific building size limits.
Direct performance of electrical, plumbing, refrigeration and air-conditioning, or fire-protection specialty work generally requires the appropriate specialty license. A Class B contractor can coordinate properly licensed subcontractors within its authorized project role.
Yes. Class B projects commonly involve coordination of multiple building trades and phases of construction, subject to Nevada's scope and specialty licensing rules.
Nevada PSI Class B Trade Exam
The current PSI Class B trade examination contains 80 scored questions.
Candidates have three hours, or 180 minutes.
At least 56 correct answers out of 80 are required, equal to 70%.
Yes. The examination is open book with specifically approved building, concrete, and masonry references.
The listed Nevada B examination reference is the 2018 International Building Code.
The current reference list identifies ACI 318-11 or ACI 318-14 for structural concrete, subject to the current PSI bulletin.
The current reference list identifies ACI 530/530.1-11 or ACI 530/530.1-13.
Those are study references, not books listed as allowed for use during the Class B trade examination. Follow the current PSI rules.
PSI permits certain highlighting, underlining, indexing, and permanent tabs under its published restrictions. Handwritten notes, loose papers, and temporary tabs may be prohibited.
General Building Exam Subjects
Concrete, Metals, and General Code/Plan Reading/Estimating are tied as the largest categories with 12 questions each.
Concrete accounts for 12 scored questions.
Yes. Metals accounts for 12 questions and includes structural steel and related construction concepts.
Yes. Masonry accounts for six questions and is supported by the approved ACI masonry reference.
Yes. Carpentry accounts for seven questions covering wood and framing-related construction.
Yes. Thermal and Moisture Protection covers building-envelope subjects such as roofing, waterproofing, insulation, and flashing.
General Code, Plan Reading, and Estimating accounts for 12 questions.
Nevada One Call is related to locating and protecting underground utility facilities before excavation. The Class B blueprint includes three questions on this subject.
Yes. Safety accounts for five questions, and candidates should review OSHA construction concepts and jobsite hazard recognition.
Application, Experience, and Fees
The qualifying individual generally needs four full years of relevant experience within the 15 years immediately before the application.
Qualifying education or training may satisfy part of the experience requirement under the Board's rules. Confirm credit limits and acceptable documentation before applying.
The Board currently lists a $300 application processing fee.
The Board currently lists a $600 biennial license fee after approval. Other costs may apply.
Yes. The Nevada State Contractors Board determines the bond amount for the applicant. It is not the same fixed amount for every Class B business.
No. Applicants must meet all applicable Board conditions, including experience, examinations, financial responsibility, bond, insurance or exemption, and fees.
CMS and NASCLA Alternatives
CMS stands for Contractor Management Survey. It is Nevada's separate contractor business and law examination, generally required unless an approved waiver applies.
Yes. Nevada recognizes the NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building examination for qualifying B trade-exam waiver applications with an official submitted transcript. Other licensing requirements remain.
No. NASCLA is a separate accredited commercial general building examination with its own subjects, references, format, and testing requirements.
Contractor Exam Preps Products
Yes. The store offers Nevada B exam-room reference sets, highlighted and tabbed packages, and books-plus-course rentals.
The focused set includes the 2018 IBC, ACI 318-14 concrete reference, and ACI 530/530.1-13 masonry reference.
Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers Nevada B highlighted and tabbed reference book packages designed to support organized code navigation.
Yes. Nevada General Building books and course rental products are available on the store, subject to current rental terms and availability.
Yes. Contractor Exam Preps sells NASCLA Commercial General Building study resources. These belong to the separate NASCLA examination path.
No. Study products support preparation but do not guarantee examination results, a trade-exam waiver, or license approval.
Watch this related 1ExamPrep video titled Training and Certification of Field Personnel Level 1 Overview Course Preview.
The video introduces construction field personnel training and a technical reference associated with general building and structural concrete preparation.
It is particularly relevant to candidates studying construction practices, field quality, materials, and post-tensioning concepts.
The video is a supplemental construction-study resource, not a Nevada PSI B examination bulletin.
For the actual Nevada B trade exam, use the current PSI outline and the approved 2018 IBC, ACI concrete, and ACI masonry references.
Creator: 1ExamPrep.
Video: Training and Certification of Field Personnel Level 1 Overview Course Preview.
Related subjects: Construction field practices, structural concrete study, technical references, and contractor exam preparation.
Nevada B exam: 80 scored questions, three hours, 56 to pass.
Important: This is general study support, not an additional approved exam-room reference.
Use the Nevada State Contractors Board and current PSI bulletin for official requirements.
Use Contractor Exam Preps for codebooks, highlighted and tabbed references, course rentals, and general building study packages.
Trade license: Nevada B General Building.
Trade exam: 80 questions, three hours, 56 correct to pass.
Approved references: 2018 IBC and specified ACI concrete and masonry codes.
Separate business exam: Contractor Management Survey.
Possible alternative: NASCLA-based trade-exam waiver.
Study resources: Nevada B books, highlighted references, rentals, and NASCLA preparation.
Preparing for the Nevada B General Building Contractor examination is an important step for construction professionals who want to obtain a general building contractor license.
General building contractors help manage some of the most complicated projects in construction.
These projects often involve several different trades working together to create a completed building.
Site preparation, foundations, structural concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, roofing, openings, insulation, and finishes all need to fit together.
Contractors also need to manage schedules, construction quality, worker safety, materials, subcontractors, and project requirements.
The Nevada Class B General Building license reflects this broad responsibility.
Under Nevada law, the classification generally applies to constructing or remodeling buildings requiring more than two unrelated building trades, with the general building contractor acting as a prime contractor.
The Nevada State Contractors Board administers the license.
PSI administers the trade examination after the Board determines applicant eligibility.
The current Nevada B General Building trade exam contains 80 scored questions.
Candidates have three hours to complete the examination.
The passing score is 56 correct answers, equal to 70%.
The test is open book, but only specified reference books are approved for exam-room use.
The approved references include the 2018 International Building Code, specified editions of ACI 318 for structural concrete, and specified editions of ACI 530/530.1 for structural masonry.
These books are important tools for examination preparation.
Students should become familiar with their organization, definitions, tables, and major requirements.
Knowing which reference applies to a question can save valuable time.
The examination covers eleven construction categories.
Concrete, Metals, and General Code/Plan Reading/Estimating are the three largest sections.
Each contains 12 scored questions.
Together, these categories represent 45% of the examination.
Other important subjects include Sitework, Masonry, Carpentry, Thermal and Moisture Protection, Doors and Windows, Drywall and Finishes, Safety, and Nevada One Call.
This broad content reflects the daily responsibilities of a general building contractor.
A contractor must understand how a project progresses from excavation and foundations through framing, building enclosure, and completion.
Concrete construction is an important study area.
Students should review footings, slabs, structural members, reinforcement, formwork, and curing.
Masonry study should include block, brick, mortar, grout, and reinforced masonry construction.
Structural metals preparation should include steel beams, columns, connections, joists, and erection concepts.
Carpentry preparation should cover wood framing, roof systems, walls, floors, sheathing, and openings.
Thermal and Moisture Protection includes roofing, waterproofing, insulation, flashing, and building-envelope concepts.
Doors and Windows and Drywall and Finishes are smaller examination categories, but they still require preparation.
Construction safety is another important responsibility.
Students should understand the hazards associated with excavation, scaffolds, fall protection, equipment, and material handling.
Nevada One Call questions address underground utility awareness and the importance of safe excavation practices.
Plan reading and estimating deserve regular practice.
Construction professionals must be able to interpret drawings, dimensions, details, schedules, and construction notes.
They also need to calculate areas, volumes, lengths, and material quantities.
Good estimating supports better planning and helps prevent unnecessary project costs.
Contractor Exam Preps offers multiple Nevada B General Building products.
The Nevada B Books Allowed into Exam Package includes the 2018 IBC, ACI 318-14, and ACI 530/530.1-13.
The highlighted and tabbed version helps students organize reference navigation.
Broader Nevada B book packages and rental options may provide additional training and preparation support.
Students should choose books based on the requirements of their actual exam and the amount of study support they need.
The licensing process also includes requirements outside the trade examination.
Applicants generally need a qualifying individual with four years of relevant experience within the previous 15 years.
The Board currently lists a $300 application processing fee and a $600 biennial license fee.
Financial responsibility, a contractor bond, workers' compensation compliance, and other requirements may apply.
Applicants generally need to satisfy the separate Contractor Management Survey business and law requirement unless a valid waiver is approved.
There is also a possible alternative to the standard Nevada B trade examination.
The Nevada State Contractors Board recognizes the NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building examination for qualifying trade-exam waiver applications.
Candidates who use that option must provide the required official NASCLA transcript.
A NASCLA trade-exam waiver does not automatically provide a contractor license.
Experience, business and law, financial, bond, and other requirements still apply.
A six-week study plan can help organize preparation.
Begin with licensing rules, sitework, safety, and codebook navigation.
Continue with concrete, masonry, structural steel, carpentry, moisture protection, openings, and finishes.
Include plan reading, estimating, Nevada One Call, and CMS business preparation.
Finish with repeated 80-question practice sessions using a three-hour time limit.
Review incorrect answers and work on weak subjects.
The most effective preparation combines practical construction experience with accurate reference books, organized study, and realistic examination practice.
With steady preparation, Nevada B candidates can develop a stronger understanding of the licensing process and the construction systems they will be responsible for managing.
Nevada B General Building Contractor Exam Prep helps construction professionals understand the licensing process, study the PSI trade examination, and prepare for the responsibilities of general building contracting.
In Nevada, the B General Building classification is regulated by the Nevada State Contractors Board. It applies to qualifying construction or remodeling projects that require more than two unrelated building trades or crafts, with the general building contractor generally serving as the prime contractor.
General building construction involves the coordination of many project phases. These may include sitework, excavation, concrete foundations, masonry, structural steel, carpentry, roofing, waterproofing, doors, windows, and interior finishes.
Class B contractors need to understand how these construction activities work together. They also need to plan construction schedules, coordinate subcontractors, review project documents, recognize safety hazards, and maintain compliance with applicable building requirements.
The Nevada B General Building trade examination is administered by PSI after applicants are authorized to test through the Nevada State Contractors Board.
The current examination contains 80 scored questions. Candidates have three hours to complete the test and must answer at least 56 questions correctly, equal to 70%.
The trade examination is open book, but only specified reference books are permitted. The current listed references include the 2018 International Building Code, ACI 318-11 or ACI 318-14 for structural concrete, and ACI 530/530.1-11 or ACI 530/530.1-13 for structural masonry.
These books help candidates answer questions involving building-code provisions, concrete construction, masonry requirements, definitions, and technical tables. Students should learn how to locate information efficiently before taking the examination.
Other construction references are useful for technical study, but they are not automatically approved for use during the test. OSHA construction safety references, gypsum publications, steel joist references, excavation books, and field concrete manuals should be used during preparation unless PSI explicitly lists them as permitted.
The Nevada Class B exam contains eleven major subject categories. Sitework has six questions. Concrete has twelve. Masonry has six. Metals has twelve. Carpentry has seven. Thermal and Moisture Protection has nine. Doors and Windows has four. Drywall and Finishes has four. Safety has five. General Code, Plan Reading, and Estimating has twelve. Nevada One Call has three.
Concrete, Metals, and General Code/Plan Reading/Estimating are tied as the largest examination categories. Together, they represent 36 questions, or 45% of the total examination.
Concrete preparation includes foundations, footings, slabs, formwork, reinforcing steel, placement, and curing. Students should practice locating applicable ACI 318 requirements.
Masonry preparation includes brick, block, mortar, grout, reinforced walls, and related construction methods. The approved ACI 530 reference supports code-based masonry study.
Structural metals study includes steel members, beams, columns, joists, metal decking, erection concepts, and connections. Students should understand how structural metal systems are represented on construction drawings.
Carpentry preparation involves wood framing, floors, roofs, walls, sheathing, openings, fastening, and project sequencing. Thermal and Moisture Protection includes roofing, insulation, waterproofing, flashing, and building-envelope systems.
Plan reading and estimating are important throughout the construction process. Candidates should understand construction drawings, elevations, sections, dimensions, schedules, quantities, areas, and volumes.
Safety study includes OSHA construction principles, scaffolds, excavation hazards, ladders, and fall protection. Nevada One Call covers underground utility location and excavation awareness.
Contractor Exam Preps offers several relevant Nevada B products. The Books Allowed into Exam Package contains the principal 2018 IBC and ACI code references. Highlighted and tabbed packages provide organized reference preparation. Books and course rental packages offer additional training options and study support.
These resources can help candidates build code-navigation skills, review construction topics, and prepare for timed examinations. However, purchasing preparation materials does not guarantee passing or licensing approval.
Nevada contractor applicants must also satisfy requirements beyond the trade test. The qualifying individual generally needs four years of relevant experience within the fifteen years immediately before applying.
The Board currently lists a $300 application processing fee and a $600 biennial license fee. Applicants may also need to satisfy financial responsibility, bonding, workers' compensation, and other requirements.
The Contractor Management Survey examination is Nevada's separate business and law requirement. Candidates generally need to satisfy this requirement unless an applicable waiver is approved.
An alternative trade-examination option may be available through NASCLA. The Nevada State Contractors Board recognizes qualifying results from the NASCLA Accredited Commercial General Building examination for possible waiver of the Nevada B trade test. The applicant must submit the required official transcript and complete other licensing requirements.
A six-week study schedule can divide preparation into manageable subjects. Begin with licensing rules, sitework, safety, and reference navigation. Continue with concrete, masonry, metals, carpentry, moisture protection, openings, and finishes.
Include regular plan-reading exercises, estimating questions, and Nevada One Call review. Finish with repeated 80-question practice examinations under a three-hour time limit.
Nevada B General Building candidates can prepare more effectively by confirming the correct classification, using the current PSI outline, practicing approved code-reference navigation, and studying every technical subject consistently.
Explore Nevada General Building contractor books, building-code references, structural concrete and masonry guides, tabbed exam materials, and training packages at ContractorExamPreps.com.
