Carpenter Journeyman Licensing Exam

Carpenter Journeyman Licensing Exam Practice Test Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a framing square?

a) Measuring angles on pipes

b) Laying out and checking right angles in carpentry

c) Cutting metal sheets

d) Polishing wood surfaces

Rationale: A framing square is specifically designed to measure and

lay out right angles in construction and woodworking.

• Which type of wood joint provides the strongest mechanical interlock?

a) Butt joint

b) Lap joint

c) Dovetail joint

d) Rabbet joint 1 / 4

Rationale: Dovetail joints interlock with a series of pins and tails,

providing superior strength without fasteners.

• What is the standard thickness of a sheet of plywood commonly used

for subfloors?

• 1/4 inch
• 1/2 inch
• 3/4 inch
• 1 inch

Rationale: 3/4 inch plywood is commonly used for subflooring to

provide sufficient strength and stability.

• Which tool is used to ensure a surface is perfectly level?

a) Tape measure

b) Framing square

c) Spirit level

d) Plumb bob

Rationale: A spirit level uses liquid and a bubble to verify that a

surface is level horizontally or vertically.

• When installing a stair stringer, what is the correct rise-to-run ratio?

a) 5:12

b) 7:11

c) 8:10

d) 6:10 2 / 4

Rationale: Standard stair construction uses a rise of about 7 inches

and a run of about 11 inches to ensure comfortable step dimensions.

• What is the function of a plumb bob in carpentry?

a) Measure angles

b) Smooth surfaces

c) Establish vertical alignment

d) Mark cutting lines

Rationale: A plumb bob provides a simple and accurate way to

establish vertical lines or ensure structures are perfectly upright.

• Which fastener is most commonly used to attach drywall to wood

studs?

a) Nails

b) Drywall screws

c) Lag bolts

d) Staples

Rationale: Drywall screws provide strong holding power and reduce

the risk of damaging drywall compared to nails.

• What is the purpose of a rabbet cut?

a) Create decorative edges

b) Join two pieces of wood at a corner

c) Provide a recess for another piece to fit into

d) Reduce wood thickness 3 / 4

Rationale: A rabbet cut creates a recess along the edge or end of a

board to allow another piece to fit snugly.

• What type of saw is best for making curved cuts in wood?

a) Circular saw

b) Table saw

c) Jigsaw

d) Miter saw

Rationale: A jigsaw allows precise control for cutting curves and

irregular shapes.

• Which lumber grade is typically used for structural framing?

a) Select

b) FAS

c) No. 2 Common

d) C&B

Rationale: No. 2 Common provides adequate strength and

consistency for structural framing while remaining cost-effective.

• When nailing two pieces of wood together, what is the

recommended nail size for 2x4 framing?

• 6d
• 16d
• 10d
• 8d
• / 4