Contractor License Exam for Painting

Contractor License Exam for Painting & Coatings Practice Examination Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which surface preparation method removes loose paint using pressure

but does not create a profile?

• Sandblasting
• Chemical stripping
• Pressure washing
• Needle scaling

Pressure washing removes contaminants and loose coatings but does not etch or profile the substrate.

• Which coating is best suited for high-moisture environments?
• Alkyd
• Epoxy 1 / 4

• Vinyl
• Latex

Epoxies provide superior moisture and chemical resistance compared with alkyds or latex paints.

• What is the primary purpose of primer on metal surfaces?
• Add sheen
• Provide color uniformity
• Reduce dry time
• Promote adhesion and prevent corrosion

Metal primers bond to steel and inhibit rust, ensuring long-term coating performance.

• Which of the following is an OSHA requirement when spraying coatings

in an enclosed area?

• Use of latex gloves
• Contractor bonding
• Water supply access
• Proper ventilation or respiratory protection

Spray operations can generate hazardous vapors; OSHA mandates ventilation or respirators.

• What is the recommended humidity range for applying most latex

coatings? 2 / 4

A. 10–20%

B. 20–30%

C. 40–70%

D. 80–90%

Humidity within 40–70% ensures proper drying and prevents moisture- related failures.

• Which tool is best for measuring wet film thickness?
• Feeler gauge
• Caliper
• Laser level
• Notched gauge

A wet-film gauge has notches that show how much wet material has been applied.

• What type of coating is generally recommended for galvanized metal?
• Raw alkyd
• Acrylic latex
• Epoxy mastic
• Shellac

Acrylic latex coatings bond well to galvanized surfaces without saponification.

• Which defect results from painting over a dirty or chalky surface? 3 / 4

• Cissing
• Mud cracking
• Peeling
• Alligatoring

Poor adhesion from surface contamination commonly results in peeling.

• What is the minimum cure time for most two-component epoxies

before recoating?

• 15 minutes
• 4–8 hours
• 24 hours
• 72 hours

Epoxies typically require several hours to chemically cure before receiving additional coats.

10. The term “pot life” refers to:

• Total project duration
• Storage shelf life
• Color blending time
• Time after mixing during which material remains usable

Once components are mixed, chemical reaction limits working time, known as pot life.

• Which type of respirator is required for solvent-based spray painting?
• / 4