Blog

Anyone who’s read the story of the three little pigs probably recalls that the brick house was the one that kept the big bad wolf at bay. It’s no wonder, considering how strong and durable masonry is. As a masonry contractor, you can participate in building structures that stand the test of time and provide families with a sense of security.

Before legally conducting business in the masonry field, you must obtain a license from the Nevada State Contractors Board. What is required to obtain this license, and what type of work can you do with it?

What Do Masonry Contractors Do?

With a C-18 Masonry Contractor License, professionals are allowed to select, cut, and lay a range of materials that fall under the category of masonry. This could include materials like brick and other baked clay products, artificial stone, precast blocks, and structural glass brick or block. 

This license covers laying materials with or without mortar in courses or random configurations, but it does not include applying tiles to existing surfaces.

Requirements to Become a Masonry Contractor

Like many skilled trades, construction work often requires some experience to qualify for licensure. 

Contractors in the state of Nevada must complete a minimum of four years of experience within 10 years before applying for a license. You may obtain this experience working as a journeyperson, foreperson, supervising employee, or contractor, or you may substitute approved education or training for a portion of this requirement.

When you submit your application, you’ll be asked to provide several documents, including proof of insurance, financial statements, and someone designated as a qualifying party. Finally, you’ll have to pass a trade exam, as well as the Contractor Management Survey Exam.

The latter is required for all contractor licenses. This open-book test consists of 60 questions covering topics like:

• Licensing
• Estimating and Bidding
• Liens Laws
• Financial Management
• Tax and Labor Laws
• Project Management
• Contracts
• Risk Management

To receive a passing score, you must answer at least 75% of the questions correctly. You’ll have 120 minutes to complete the exam. Contractor licenses also require a specialized trade exam. The C-18 Masonry Contractor Exam includes 50 questions on topics such as:

• Safety
• Brick
• Concrete Block
• Mortar and Grout
• Specialty Masonry

You will have two hours to complete this test, and you must answer a minimum of 35 questions correctly to pass.

Tips for Finding the Right Exam Prep Program

As a working professional, you need to pass state exams on the first try so you can move ahead with your career. The right exam prep program will help to ensure that you’re ready to ace your tests.

You’ll want to find a state-approved program that offers the convenience of 24/7 online access and a self-paced learning format. Courses designed by industry experts and educators provide the information you need to succeed.

You’ll enjoy all of these benefits and more when you choose RocketCert. If you’re ready to obtain your Masonry Contractor License in Nevada, contact us today to learn more and get started.