Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Asphalt Paving Technician Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a tack coat in asphalt paving?
• To reduce skid resistance
• To promote adhesion between layers
• To increase pavement thickness
• To provide drainage

Rationale: A tack coat is applied to ensure proper bonding between

existing and new asphalt layers.

• Which type of asphalt mixture is commonly used for surface courses

on high-traffic roads?

• Cold mix asphalt 1 / 4

• Slurry seal
• Hot mix asphalt (HMA)
• Chip seal

Rationale: Hot mix asphalt is dense, durable, and designed to handle

heavy traffic loads.

• What is the optimal compaction temperature for most HMA mixtures?

A. 150–200°F

B. 200–250°F

C. 275–325°F

D. 350–400°F

Rationale: HMA is typically compacted at 275–325°F to ensure proper

density and durability.

4. The term “superpave” refers to:

• A type of paving machine
• A cold patch material
• A performance-based asphalt mix design method
• A surface treatment

Rationale: Superpave (SUperior PERforming Asphalt PAVEments) is a

mix design system based on performance criteria.

• What is the main function of the prime coat?
• To prevent cracking
• To penetrate the base course and improve bonding with the

asphalt layer 2 / 4

• To provide skid resistance
• To seal the surface

Rationale: Prime coat stabilizes the base and promotes adhesion for

the subsequent asphalt layer.

• Which compaction equipment is most effective for achieving density

on thin asphalt layers?

• Pneumatic-tired roller
• Steel-wheeled roller
• Grader
• Motor grader

Rationale: Steel-wheeled rollers provide sufficient pressure for

compacting thin asphalt layers effectively.

• Which test measures the asphalt binder’s resistance to deformation at

high temperatures?

• Flash point test
• Penetration test
• Rutting test / Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR)
• Ductility test

Rationale: DSR testing evaluates binder performance under high

temperatures to predict rutting potential.

8. During asphalt paving, segregation is most often caused by:

• Insufficient tack coat
• Improper handling, hauling, or placement 3 / 4

• Excessive compaction
• Cold weather

Rationale: Segregation occurs when coarse and fine aggregates

separate due to mishandling or improper placement.

9. The purpose of a roller pattern in asphalt paving is to:

• Increase surface texture
• Ensure uniform compaction and density
• Improve drainage
• Reduce surface temperature

Rationale: Proper roller patterns are critical to achieving uniform

density and preventing deformation.

• What is the typical thickness range for a surface course on a

standard roadway?

• 0.5–1 inch
• 1–2 inches
• 1.5–3 inches
• 3–5 inches

Rationale: Surface courses are usually designed between 1.5–3

inches for optimal performance and ride quality.

11. Asphalt concrete is considered “hot mix” when:

• It is applied below 150°F
• It is mixed and placed at 275–325°F
• It is cooled before compaction
• / 4