How to Pass the ICC General Contractor Exam

Here is the real scoop on what I did to pass the ICC General Contractor Class A F11 Exam. It is crazy to me how many companies want to sell you some practice materials but don't really explain how the test works, and how their materials relate to the test. This information applies to the F11, F12 and F13 ICC Contractor tests, which equate to the General Building Contractor A, the General Building Contractor B, and the Residential Building Contractor C respectively.
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[@ChristopherMichaelMusic]

I passed all my R5 certs on my first attempt. The key is 1) knowing the questions are weighted and 2) knowing the test is not your friend. It is designed to have a 50/50 pass fail rate (per an ICC proctor). Once I learned this, I over prepared by taking any and all practice test I could. By doing this, you almost memorize the section the question comes from (muscle memory). I will add to his good advice, if you`re not scoring 95% + on every practice test...WAIT. Another good piece of advice I received is....when they ask a chart question...its never the first chart and they take most answers from the bottom of a long form paragraph and not the top half. So yeah, ICC is not your friend, Its trickery, but once you know this info you will increase your speed and passing rates.

[@hubertschulz6005]

Obviously Contractors exam has been a pain in my ass, but that won't bother me anylonger i have gotten my license already thanks to you Mr James God bless you more cuz you made it possible for me

[@davidjohnson220]

ICC General Contractor exam is really difficult and frustrating, i can't believe i failed again after studying so hard

[@stevecollian5183]

Am sorry for that some people also passed through the difficulties just be patient and keep studying

[@susanedwards6856]

I'm really sorry about that but i got used to it until i succeeded, i failed 6 times before i finally passed, it would have been 6 but Mr James saved me from failing again

[@margarete7578]

i saw someone say he is not trustworthy i couldn't stop laughing, really people say a lot of shit these days

[@tomswilliamson9395]

@Fine Urban Interiors hello!!! This is a backdoor we're talking about not some kind of extra classes, you really won't expect him to have Facebook page it's not safe for him

[@mariozacarias2093]

You're awesome man. I'm currently in that situation, I didn't know how to prep. I saw websites that offer those test preps. I knew there had to be another way... checked youtube and you're video was the 1st one to pop!!

[@javierriverajr3283]

Hello I just wanted to comment to say that I really do appreciate your help. I felt like I wasn't capable of doing this, but this really motivated me. THANKS!

[@krisgehrholz9817]

Thank You for making this process more transparent! I really appreciate your time, and I have Subscribed to receive more future sage advice.

[@isaiahrawlison7211]

Great general overview of what to expect on the exam. Much appreciated! 🤙🏽

[@brennenballard8722]

I am so grateful that you put this video out! I have been searching for months for a guide or test prep questions and I live in Colorado as well so I’ll need to be licensed municipally as well. I am trying to go for the Type B license. I have been searching for a video just like this that gives me just a heads up to what was on the test and what I need to study for and if there was anything extra on the test that wasn’t in the books. From what it sounds like it’s all in the books. Did you take the test online or in person?

[@NichelleColvin]

I want to thank you for this content! This really helped me with my confidence!!! You are a blessing!

[@Bethannhayes]

Thank you so much! Taking my test next month. This seems very helpful. It looks like you color coded your tabs? I see large sections coded in the same color? Congrats on passing.

[@natebeca1471]

Your video is spot on , downloaded sample test and Ibc edition did a few questions see how it would go and yes this works , same concept when taking osha 30. Em385 40 hr , other online certifications .ive taken , its same but no book just pdf, You save me alot of time and money. Thanks i ordered what you got its on the way.👍

[@Onlyist]

Appreciate you. I passed my exam yesterday, One and done. Hope I'm not sharing too much, but didn't even look at concrete manual. Wish I knew final score but I did find the purchased tabs useful to find charts but it really was all about index, table of contents and chapter numbers as far as tabbing for me. I signed up with 3 weeks to study and got the tests you recommended. Thanks again for your information, and good luck to anyone else that is going to take it.

[@Umamis_Boy]

Man, thanks for laying the ground work and sharing your experience to save others time and money.

[@adrianm.8278]

Great video! Had a question tho? What was your thought on the “pronto” prep and testing on the ICC? Not sure if you will see this question, but would be nice to make a follow up video and your thoughts on how things are going since taking the test.

[@gregggriffith4795]

I appreciate the video and advice. I’m in WA, where there’s no testing, just a lot of compliance officers. I’m thinking of moving east, and I’m finding many of the more urban areas throughout the middle US does licensing by jurisdiction like where you are. I have been planning to take the test, just to give me more options. This gives me a good place to start. Thank you!

[@workinghands1805]

Awesome!! I’m currently just a residential (contractor) “remodeler” and I’m wanting to expand out into bigger and better things after 3 years of doing single man remodel jobs and believe me the amount I cover alone is allot thanks for the video!!

[@alexrivercitysa3407]

Where did you buy your books and the exam?

[@victoreisenman4076]

Thank you for posting this video, very helpful!

[@nativepangea]

I print out the Index and put in a small (reference book) 3 ring binder, saves me time as it is open to the side. I also write in the index if applicable and short enough the answer to what I am looking for. In the reference book I include any quick reference pages, I like pictures over text. In the book when you see a number written ex: four, I write 4 in the margin. Much faster to find when scanning.

[@ValOnufreychuk]

One of the best explained video on KZbin I think the idea of studying marking index and chapters it’s the best advise ever that’s what I realized too that finding and knowing index might help better gonna see in a week how I do

[@weldinggirl]

How did you do??

[@jeffreyvazquez8219]

Awesome video brother. Well spoken very informative.

[@lasvegas501]

Dude I'm from Paris and i can tell you that since know you're my Hero. A partir de maintenant, tu es mon héros . Merci

[@HUCKSTERING007]

Your video actually helped me before I got my license.. I finally get them! Thanks again!

[@naeemhassan4446]

I loved your video. Can you point to the direction what books and practice tests I need to take the general contractor class A test. such as the books names and tests and where I can get them from

[@throughahunterseyes7867]

Ok you are the only human on planet earth that has made a helpful video regarding this subject thanks

[@ND-tb4df]

Awesome video thank you so much! Also your shop is so organized!

[@vdimaio77]

hi

[@maxwellgill9450]

Thanks for the video and solid advice.

[@aprilhauk4744]

Great job sir!

[@livinginsumtersc]

Great and helpful video. Thanks for getting this out there. Question, are the tests multiple choice?

[@derikk123]

I super appreciate this video!

[@apostoloskoritas9149]

Thanks for sharing. God bless you. Can you make a video also for what you would need to have before you be prepared for the exams ( example ... what experience, how many years of work and in what job, any other degrees or recommendations..... etc). Thanks again( I subscribed because you sound honest)

[@Balticblue93]

I live in Jefferson County, Colorado and am currently studying for the G29 Master Mechanical test. I am studying IMC and IFGC books, study materials like a study guide and flash cards plus I am taking a four-day (24 hours of classroom time) ICC Code class in July. I hear it is about finding the answers fast and not necessarily memorizing everything, but I am studying already. I am an HVAC business owner and technician. I don't build anything, but I certainly understand how difficult these tests can be. Maybe someday I will be an inspector. I am not really sure where the best place to go for practice tests or the best resources besides the books and study guides.

[@thebestsongs9718]

Thank you from Colorado Springs. Great info.

[@adam_riley]

that was so helpful. Thank you.

[@chrisolavarrieta]

Thanks bro you gave me the confidence I needed to go after this test...all the way fr9m new orleans big thanks to you bro!!! ✊️

[@Neverstopbuilding]

Hell yeah man!

[@Chattaboulder]

Good info for someone who doesn’t know how the testing process goes .. they do not make that clear . Thanks man 👍

[@Neverstopbuilding]

Thank you!

[@Bobbyc719]

Nice video man thanks!

[@NickelPlatedProd]

I'm live in Colorado (adams county). I've owned my own remodeling company for 3 years now but have to turn down jobs that need permitting so just recently I decided I need to get liscensed. After some research I thought the contractor C liscense might be the easiest for me for the stuff I'm doing (basement and bathroom remodels). Am I wrong? After watching this video it sounds like I need the contractor B liscense. I got the IRC book and was just blown away how thick it was. I've heard from other people the contractor exam center was a little bogus and you just confirmed that for me. This video has helped a lot but one question I still have is - other then passing this test do I need anything else to be liscensed? Ex: proof of hours worked in the field, etc.

[@Bob-eb8km]

I am in Georgia which uses NASCLA test and business law. You mentioned the link to test preps and wanted to ask which one you thought was most helpful to you. Thanks, ans great video explanation. Look forward to watching more of your videos. Bob

[@thomasromero572]

Thanks so much for the video. Extremely helpful! I'm in Colorado as well and doing pre work to get my license. Debating between B or C. I was set on getting the C license but since seeing your video I'm not sure. In your video you mentioned that a certain municipality would not allow a class C license if you were working with an architect. What municipality is that?

[@thomasromero572]

@@Neverstopbuilding Thanks so much for the info! This has been so helpful. I think that I am going to get the B class license. Do you know what all books would be required for that test? Do I need all 3?

[@anthonysheppard72]

@@thomasromero572 did you ever find out

[@phonglecontractor]

Thank you for sharing.

[@bradhornick741]

Does anyone recommend a prep class that is the best?

[@noereyes1753]

Awesome video! Thank you! Humble informative and direct

[@SeaTaj]

Thank you! I am in Colorado as well. It sounds a lot like studying for standardized tests!!

[@samirpatel5048]

I had a question- I have my Class C, so am familiar with the format. However I have been preparing for the Class B. I am confused as to if the test actually addresses both the IBC and IRC books and concrete manual. In the sample test book- questions it seems like everything can be found in the IBC? Second question- I’m tempted to just start over and start prepping for the Class A test as it only uses the IBC and concrete manual. Any suggestions or info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[@vinedge]

Thanks Dude, very helpful, doing the test Monday morning

[@Neverstopbuilding]

Best of luck

[@lttldblj]

Did you pass???

[@dlang605]

Thank for the info S

[@dcijams]

my class c test in 2001 was 50 questions, but had 8 hours to answer the questions. and it took all of that time to do.

[@garveyglenn1283]

Will this video be helpful if iam taking the class C ? I know i dont need the concrete! Just looking to get my roofing on and siiding here in iowa!

[@Jpcookbook]

Great video. I’m also from Colorado, I’m trying to get my GC license soon, would you mind telling me what books to get as of August 2021? Thank you

[@Neverstopbuilding]

The books depend on the test you are taking, if you are going for the 2015 code, you need the 2015 books.

[@eddyhackleman]

You hit the nail on the head with this video. Thanks for putting it together.

[@charlesbullingor9388]

are there any prep test for spray applied fireproofing

[@jkglisson42]

Do you remember the online course that you used before the practice tests you listed above? It sounds like one that I was interested in. Also, before the practice tests, how would you recommend becoming more familiar with the material other than reading every word of every book?

[@huntersonnier6647]

@@Neverstopbuilding im in Colorado aswell in loveland. I do have a question for you i take my class A exam Tuesday Oct 16th and iv been doing practice test aswell I have both books 2015 ibc and 2015 concert code probably a dumb question but did you use the 2015 irc at all for the class A test or is that just for class B and C bc when I called icc and pearson vue they said I could bring up to 3 contents with me and they named those 3 2015 ibc, 2015 concert manual and 2015 irc so im debating if I should go out and buy the book but if I could save that 115 dollars I'd love to I'm not asking for any answers on the test by any means just asking if you brought the 2015 irc with u during the test thanks for the video its helped alot 😊

[@huntersonnier6647]

@@Neverstopbuilding thanks thats what I thought it just threw me off when they told me I could bring that book to I was almost sure but didn't wanna risk it you know since thats what the lady from. Pearson vue said. But thanks didn't wanna spend another 100 if I didn't have to

[@travisgarcia5588]

link to the tabs you used?

[@tinolimon9284]

Thanks for the info! Im in Colorado as well I'm a finished basement remodeler and kitchen and bath remodeler as well. I'm starting my journey to becoming a licensed contractor mainly to build my self my own home rather then buying off the market. Besides taking the tests and the great info what other requirements do you need to have to become a licensed contractor in the state of Colorado? Do you have a video containing this info? if so can you point me in the right direction? Once again thank you for the info time to study !

[@nicholethompson9831]

Hi, my husband is a contractor here too You will get a licensed in each city you work.

[@BryantAvant]

Man you're awesome. I'm in Kansas. Decided, like you, that I'm going for the Class A. Question I have is, do you think the 2018 books would work to pass the tests? I'm seeing that they still go buy 2015 but since 2021 is about to come out, they might bump up to 2018 by the time I go take the test.

[@eddyhackleman]

How long did you prep before you took the test?

[@cubanhandyman4179]

Is a little nervous about,I have the text next week . I’m been searching and your video show us the first on the list , I hope I can pass the text . I got all the stuff you mention . We’ll see how everything goes

[@FixMyHeatHVAC]

How did you do?

[@valentinacordoba0725]

The link for the practice test is missing. Great video!

[@orodhomes7921]

exactly! we need real practice questions not book tabs!

[@willamenaespinoza7502]

Thank you for this video... I take my test in 3 days !

[@Neverstopbuilding]

Best of luck!

[@user-dg8zd5ec1h]

Thank you for the video! Can you send the link for tab guidance?

[@amphaysoundara2733]

Which book do I study if im going for remodler examination

[@julietarios6130]

This works for the trade exam, did you take the business and law? is there any workbooks for that?.

[@peterjohnson7632]

I like your style of play

[@whiskeycast3785]

Thank you for this. Absolutely best advice I have found too

[@Neverstopbuilding]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kentallshouse4434]

Questions: #1. What format is the Class A test? (multiple choice, short answer, etc.) #2. Are you allowed to use your own books for the test? I was thinking my city hall said I have to use their books. #3 Is the Class A test only on the IBC and Concrete? Or, does it include the IRC info as well? Thanks for your video and I look forward to your response.

[@javierlepes4536]

After doing my own research , all are multiple choice, they are open book tests and you have to have the books needed for the type of test you are going to take. if you go to the exam catalog on the icc website, and fill in the info towards what youre looking for , itll tell you what books that exact test will be over.

[@melissacano3]

Hello I’m trying to become a general contractor and I wanted to know if you know if there is any schooling that you need to do for that or just study the books you have and take the test?

[@cs5981]

Depends on your state

[@tcardinal95]

Thanks! Very helpful!

[@tycook4675]

Awesome , thanks for the great info!!

[@ryanhaver7816]

I have the 2021 book. Is that an issue if I am purchasing the 2015 tests?

[@stephanymarquez4841]

Can someone please tell me what license I would need to become a roofer? I want to have my own roofing company I want to be a contractor but I don't know what type or class of license I will need if I'm in Colorado thank you in advance

[@markbeal7326]

Any idea of what should be tabbed in the concrete manual? Taking the test tomorrow.

[@markbeal7326]

@@Neverstopbuilding Just a quick thank you for the great video and advice- just passed the test this morning!

[@dcijams]

Quizlet & London technical ( had the best questions, to help you pass) the ICC practice tests, don't even come close to the test questions. it's about knowing where the answer is. it's about knowing where to look for the questions.

[@xzreacts3409]

Great feedback! Thanks Dude!

[@violetamckean5299]

Thank you!

[@paulnorberg3869]

Well articulated.

[@sustainablescott]

Super informative, great help, thanks so much

[@TheWilkiRocks]

Did you take the test online? It sounds like you did since you could mark what questions to come back to.

[@cs5981]

Also can you use the books on the test?

[@AsHellBored]

I took the test a week ago and passed. I had seen this video, it was a point in the right direction. But how do you get your % score? My authenticator still says taken and passed.

[@nancybunte7457]

Thank you - missed it by one point today. Should have watched your video first. You make me feel like I'm not the only one.

[@dcijams]

i took my exams in 2001, for IRC (3), now going after the 2018 IRC inspectors exam.(my exam, was closed book) in 2001, took both the Residential & business management exams, the same day. I found that the 2018 IRC book was missing pages, I found out after my first exam. like all of decks were not there.

[@AJ-iz3no]

Great video I’m planning on taking the test in the next six months. Will use your advise thank you!

[@douglaspindilli1640]

This guy is great! Straight talk by a guy hat swings a hammer!

[@alexandermolkentin3848]

What practice test would you suggest?

[@dlang605]

I’m in Florida. How is it different with book from you and from Florida…?

[@mmohney13]

You have answered so many questions for me, thank you so much!

[@orodhomes7921]

Where is the practice exam? please post it again

[@yevgeniytanas]

Hello, I'm planning to buy the books and go for the test, can you tell me what year I should get for the IBC book?

[@Neverstopbuilding]

It depends on which license you want, many places still use the 2015 code.

[@kevinhernandez3532]

Hey man thanks for this video I passed my exam because thanks to you! I am from colorado and I went for the Contractor license A. What county did you apply for first? And could you possible make a video on how to file for a license. Or if you are from colorado can i but you lunch or Pay you to ask you more questions?

[@Neverstopbuilding]

Lol hey man that is awesome, I remember how good I felt when I left the exam room with my paper! Congrats. I'm in the boulder area, hit me up via email on my website and maybe we could meet up. I got mine in Boulder City.

[@user-rv5bc2xh4n]

They gave me the concrete manual, digitally. How do I go about bringing that into the exam room?

[@Togethertheworldmuststand]

Great video and thanks for posting. Do you have a guess on what % of questions came out of the IRC vs IBC?

[@khereti]

What were the practice tests that helped you? I don't see the link

[@khereti]

NVM, just wasn't hyperlinked icc-workbooks.com

[@jeffwallace4251]

Thank you

[@cdusty308]

I live in Arvada, Colorado myself. Thank you very much for the time and effort you put into this video. I'm studying for the exam. Id be happy to meet up and buy you breakfast sometime. Thanks again.

[@pattytrout380]

Where did you get your practice tests?

[@caratapken3811]

$65 a practice test...ugh after paying for my books and other misc study materials...

[@roxycon2202]

How about the contractor state license board ? Law and business exam ?

[@OscarRodriguez-kw7yf]

I'm not looking for the actual exam.. but where is the actual help... guide, practice test, etc, etc?

[@marcusbates6689]

So it doesn’t matter the state your testing from?

[@danielritchie1310]

are there any facebook groups going for this?

[@raynawilliamson2719]

Hey guys I'm doing this for my father. the alphabet does it go in the index?

[@endersingh3180]

It would have helped if you showed few examples of questions using your book