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Homeowners and commercial organizations need reliable structures in which to live and conduct business. This means working with contractors who have the skill and experience to erect safe, functional buildings for people, animals, and property.

General contractors are the backbone of the construction industry, responsible for managing projects related to building and modifying residential and commercial structures. In this job, you’ll find your services in high demand when you exhibit strong organizational and leadership skills.

In the state of West Virginia, a general contractor license is required for any project exceeding $1,000. If you want to bid for projects over this amount, you must first obtain a license from the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board. What are the requirements?

Requirements for Licensure

Before you can obtain a license to work as a general contractor, you’ll have to provide several key documents. First, you must submit proof of education and experience related to contracting work so the board can determine which licenses and classifications you qualify to test for.

You must also prove that your business is registered with the state and provide a Business Registration Tax Number. You will be asked to provide a wage bond and, in some cases, a Certificate of Authority.

Proof of insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation, and unemployment compensation) is also required. Finally, you’ll have to pass state exams, including the Business Law Exam and a trade exam.

State Exams Required for a General Contractor License

The Business Law Exam consists of 50 questions covering topics like:

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

You will have three hours to complete this exam, and you must answer a minimum of 35 questions correctly (70%) to pass. The General Building Exam, or trade exam, includes 80 questions on topics like:

• Plan reading and estimating
• Sitework and foundations
• Concrete
• Masonry
• Structural steel
• Carpentry
• Associated trades (interior and exterior finishes, windows and doors, etc.)
• Roofing
• Safety-OSHA

You will have 180 minutes to complete this exam, and you must answer at least 56 questions correctly (70%) to pass. Both tests are open-book.

How Exam Prep Can Help

Passing your exams on the first try means you can move forward in your career without interruption. The best way to accomplish this is with the help of an exam prep program designed for working professionals.

The right program will feature 24/7 online access to courses so you can work at your own pace when it’s convenient for you. Courses created by industry experts and educators deliver the pertinent information you need to pass your exam and provide the best possible service to your clients. Look for a program that offers a no-pass, no-pay policy that shows a commitment to providing outstanding value for your money.

Are you ready to advance in your career with a general contractor license in West Virginia? Contact RocketCert to get started with an exam prep program that meets your needs.