Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Bridge Construction Inspector Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which type of bridge is most commonly used for long spans over rivers

in Illinois?

• Beam bridge
• Truss bridge
• Suspension bridge
• Arch bridge

Rationale: Suspension bridges are ideal for long spans because they

can efficiently carry heavy loads over great distances.

• What is the primary function of a bridge bearing?
• To support the deck only 1 / 4

• To anchor the bridge to the foundation
• To transfer loads from the superstructure to the substructure

while allowing controlled movement

• To provide aesthetic appearance

Rationale: Bearings accommodate movements due to thermal

expansion, traffic loads, and shrinkage, while transferring loads to the substructure.

• Which type of concrete is commonly used for bridge decks to resist

freeze-thaw cycles?

• High-strength concrete
• Lightweight concrete
• Air-entrained concrete
• Roller-compacted concrete

Rationale: Air-entrained concrete contains tiny air bubbles that

improve resistance to freeze-thaw damage.

• What is the minimum clear cover required for reinforcing steel in

bridge decks exposed to deicing salts?

• 1 inch
• 1.5 inches
• 2 inches
• 2.5 inches

Rationale: Increased cover protects reinforcement from corrosion

caused by chlorides in deicing salts. 2 / 4

• Which inspection method is used to detect cracks within a steel girder

that are not visible externally?

• Visual inspection
• Hammer sounding
• Ultrasonic testing
• Magnetic particle inspection

Rationale: Ultrasonic testing can detect internal flaws in steel that

are not visible to the eye.

• The main purpose of a temporary falsework in bridge construction is

to:

• Support workers only
• Support the bridge structure during construction until it can carry

its own weight

• Act as permanent support
• Provide drainage

Rationale: Falsework temporarily supports elements such as beams

and slabs until the structure becomes self-supporting.

• Which type of bridge is ideal for crossing deep valleys with short piers?
• Beam bridge
• Cantilever bridge
• Arch bridge
• Suspension bridge 3 / 4

Rationale: Arch bridges transfer loads efficiently to the abutments,

reducing the need for tall piers in deep valleys.

• What is the maximum allowable slump for a bridge deck concrete

pour?

• 2 inches
• 3 inches
• 4 inches
• 5 inches

Rationale: A 4-inch slump ensures workability without excessive

segregation, which is critical for bridge decks.

• Which type of steel is typically used for bridge reinforcement to resist

corrosion?

• Carbon steel
• Stainless steel
• Epoxy-coated steel
• Tool steel

Rationale: Epoxy-coated steel is commonly used in bridge decks

exposed to deicing salts to prevent corrosion.

• During construction, a bridge girder deflects more than

anticipated. The inspector should:

• Continue work as planned
• Notify the engineer immediately and document the deflection
• Remove the girder
• / 4