Blog

Whether you’re nervous about the price tag attached to a typical college degree, or you simply don’t want to spend the next four or more years stuck in a classroom when you could be working, you might be interested in a viable career in the skilled trades. 

Contractors, plumbers, electricians, HVAC specialists, and other skilled workers are always in high demand, so there’s a level of job security attached to these trades.

Also, you can often pair classroom or remote learning with on-the-job training through apprenticeship programs, in essence getting paid to learn your trade. This is a very attractive option for many people planning their professional path.

Before you jump in, you should know that most states have licensing requirements for those entering skilled trades. In New Jersey, you’ll have to sit for state exams to obtain a license from the New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs Licensing Board. 

What exams do you need to pass to get your license?

Required Licensing Exams in New Jersey

As you might expect, obtaining a license to practice a commercial trade starts with a trade exam designed to determine your knowledge of subject matter specific to your chosen profession. 

Maybe you want to install and repair electrical or plumbing systems. Perhaps you want to help people live comfortably in their homes by installing and maintaining heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems.

While New Jersey does not require general contractors to take an exam for licensure, skilled professionals entering fields like plumbing, electrical, and HVACR will have to take not only a trade exam but also the state Business & Law Exam. The latter is intended to test your knowledge of business laws and practices, and it covers topics like:

• Business organization
• Licensing
• Estimating and bidding
• Contract management
• Project management
• Risk management
• Safety
• Labor law
• Financial management
• Tax law
• Lien law

The Business & Law Exam is an open-book test featuring 50 questions. You will have 130 minutes to complete the exam, and you must answer a minimum of 70% of the questions correctly to pass.

Preparing for the Business & Law Exam

Passing your exam on the first try is essential if you want to continue progressing on your career path uninterrupted. The best way to pass both trade exams and the Business & Law Exam in New Jersey is with an effective exam prep program. 

You’ll want to choose courses geared toward working professionals that offer 24/7 online access and self-paced learning that works with your busy schedule.

The materials provided should prepare you for the math and accounting you might be tested on and cover critical information needed to pass. The best programs also offer quizzes to reinforce key concepts and test simulations to ensure you’re prepared for the real deal.

Are you ready to move ahead in your career by taking the trade exam and the Business & Law Exam in New Jersey? RocketCert has a state-approved exam prep program that helps you pass on the first try. Contact us today to get started.