Blog

Every state has its own rules and regulations surrounding licensing for skilled trades like plumbing, electrical, and contracting. However, there are also national and international organizations offering opportunities for licensure. 

One such regulatory and administrative body is the International Code Council (ICC). The ICC offers professional accreditation, training, and certification, among other services, with the goal of promoting standards and codes for building safety. 

Several jurisdictions throughout the U.S. accept ICC exams as a substitution for locally administered trade exams. The advantage of taking the ICC exam is that it could transfer to other regions, potentially saving you the trouble of passing multiple exams if you regularly cross state lines for work or plan to move to another state in the future. 

You’ll need to check with your jurisdiction to find out whether this option is available to you or not, and decide whether the benefits are worthwhile. If you do opt to take the G13-N exam for residential building contractors, what can you expect? 

What Passing the Exam Means 

The ICC offers a National Standard Building Contractor Exam (C) - G13-N for contractors interested in performing activities like construction, remodeling, and repair of 1- and 2-family residential structures up to two stories, as well as U occupancy buildings (such as accessory units for main residences) and attached, single-unit dwellings (like townhouses). 

What to Expect From the Exam 

While there are no formal requirements to take the National Standard Building Contractor Exam (C) - G13-N, you should know that you must still meet state requirements for education/experience, insurance coverage, and so on when obtaining a license.

It is recommended that you complete these requirements and study the International Residential Code (IRC) before taking the exam. 

The National Standard Building Contractor Exam (C) - G13-N is an open-book test consisting of 80 questions on topics like: 

• Permits and general regulations 
• Regulations and job planning 
• Code definitions and terms 
• Building planning and life safety 
• Fire, smoke alarms, and fire protection systems 
• Occupancy needs and interior environment 
• Exiting and means of egress 
• Structural systems 
• Footings and foundations 
• Concrete 
• Floors 
• Wall framing and stairs 
• Roof ceiling construction roof assembly 
• Masonry 
• Building envelope 
• Interior finishes 
• Glass and glazing 
• Exterior finishes and roof coverings 

You will have four hours to complete the exam, and you must answer at least 56 questions (70%) correctly to pass. 

Targeted Exam Prep for Working Professionals 

Licensing is an important part of pursuing a career in a skilled trade like contracting. If your jurisdiction is one of several that allow you to substitute the ICC National Standard Building Contractor Exam (C) – G13-N for a state or municipal trade exam, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for success. 

The right exam prep program will offer self-paced learning with 24/7 online access that accommodates your schedule. You should also look for courses designed by and for industry professionals. 

Are you ready to move forward in your career by taking the ICC National Standard Building Contractor Exam (C) – G13-N? Contact RocketCert now to sign up for an exam prep program.