Contractor Exam Questions And

CA Class B General Building Contractor Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationale2026 Q&A| Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is required to obtain a Class B contractor

license in California?

• Proof of 2 years’ experience in specialty contracting
• Proof of 4 years’ journey-level experience in building

construction

• A degree in civil engineering
• Membership in a trade union

Answer: B

Rationale: California requires 4 years of experience at a journey-level

classification in the trade for a Class B license.

• What is the maximum amount a Class B contractor may contract for

without a surety bond?

A. $5,000

B. $10,000

C. $15,000

D. $20,000

Answer: C

Rationale: Class B contractors can contract up to $15,000 without a

surety bond according to state law.

• Which of the following is the main purpose of a construction lien?
• Ensure the owner pays taxes
• Allow contractors to hire subcontractors
• Secure payment for labor or materials provided
• Reduce insurance premiums 1 / 3

Answer: C

Rationale: A construction lien ensures contractors and suppliers are

paid for work or materials.

• What type of insurance is required for all Class B contractors in

California?

• Life insurance
• Workers’ compensation insurance
• Auto insurance only
• Flood insurance

Answer: B

Rationale: Workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory to protect

employees from on-the-job injuries.

• What is the primary function of a building permit?
• To certify design compliance
• To ensure compliance with building codes and safety regulations
• To reduce construction costs
• To hire subcontractors legally

Answer: B

Rationale: Building permits confirm that construction meets local code

and safety requirements.

• How long must a contractor retain project records according to

California law?

• 1 year
• 2 years
• 3 years
• 5 years

Answer: C

Rationale: Contractors are required to maintain records for at least 3

years after project completion.

7. A contractor’s license bond protects:

• The contractor from bankruptcy
• The public from incomplete or defective work
• Only the building inspector
• Subcontractors’ insurance

Answer: B

Rationale: The bond ensures the public can recover damages if a

contractor fails to complete or correct work. 2 / 3

• When must a contractor provide a written contract for projects over

$500?

• Within 10 days
• Before starting work
• After the project is 50% complete
• No contract is required

Answer: B

Rationale: California law requires a written contract for projects

exceeding $500 before work begins.

• Which of the following is considered an “unfair business practice” for a

contractor?

• Using licensed subcontractors
• Misrepresenting project costs
• Maintaining records
• Completing work on time

Answer: B

Rationale: Misrepresentation of costs or services is prohibited under

state contractor regulations.

• Which class of contractor license is required to perform general

building construction?

• C-10 Electrical

B. C-20 HVAC

• B General Building
• A General Engineering

Answer: C

Rationale: Class B is specifically for general building construction

involving two or more unrelated trades.

• What is the primary difference between a Class A and Class B

license?

• Class A covers residential only
• Class A covers engineering projects, Class B covers building

construction

• Class B covers commercial only
• Class A cannot subcontract

Answer: B

Rationale: Class A is for general engineering projects; Class B is for

building construction.

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