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Are you looking for a job that allows you to be your own boss, offers new and exciting challenges all the time, and doesn’t require a four-year college degree? If so, working in a skilled trade like contracting might be right up your alley.

General contractors are responsible for tasks like construction, removal, repair, and improvement of a range of buildings and structures. It also has options for specializations like roofing, drywall, or framing.

Framing sub-contractors focus on rough framing tasks in construction, repair, and improvement projects. Before you can legally take on framing work, though, the state of Virginia requires that you obtain the proper licenses and classifications. What are these requirements, and how can you get the licensing process underway?

Choose a General Contractor License

In Virginia, skilled tradespeople are required to obtain a license from the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulations (DPOR) in order to perform jobs valued at over $1,000. You have three options when it comes to a General Contractor license: Class A, B, and C.

For each, you must be at least 18 years old, complete an eight-hour pre-licensing course, and pass a specialty trade exam. Along with two years of experience, this will earn you a Class C license. A Class B license requires three years of experience, and you must also pass the Virginia and General exams.

For a Class A license, you’ll need five years of experience, and you’ll have to pass the Virginia, General, and Advanced exams. A Class A license has no restrictions when it comes to the value of jobs you can bid on.

With a Class B license, you may take on individual contracts valued at less than $120,000, with annual earnings not exceeding $750,000. A Class C license limits you to individual contracts of less than $10,000 and annual earnings under $150,000.

Framing Sub-Contractor License Requirements

There are two main criteria for obtaining a framing classification. First, you have to obtain your General Contractor license. Once you’ve done that, all that remains is to take your Framing Contractor exam. This open book test covers topics like:

• Estimating and plan reading
• Materials and installation
• Taping
• Special applications
• Safety

You’ll have 90 minutes to answer 40 questions and must get at least 28 correct to earn a passing score. How can you prepare for success?

Prepare for Your Framing Contracting Exam

It’s important to find a program that offers more than just approved courses to help you prepare for licensing exams. You should make sure that it also has easy online access that allows for self-paced learning.

Courses designed by industry experts and educators are ideal for working professionals. You should also look for lifetime access so you can refer back to materials whenever you want.

With RocketCert, you’ll enjoy exam prep that includes critical information guides, essential math/calculations for your field, practice quizzes, test simulation, and professional test-taking tips.

Are you ready to obtain your Virginia Framing Sub-Contracting license? Contact us today to learn more and take one step closer to your future.