Licensing Exam CSL Practice Exam 100

Massachusetts Construction Supervisor Licensing Exam (CSL) Practice Exam 100 Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

Q1 What is the primary purpose of the Massachusetts State Building Code?

• To increase construction costs
• To ensure public safety, health, and welfare
• To promote construction industry profits
• To reduce local government enforcement

Rationale: The code protects the public through standards for design and

construction.Q2 Which version of the International Residential Code (IRC) is currently adopted in Massachusetts with amendments? 1 / 4

A. 2012 IRC

B. 2015 IRC

• 2021 IRC (with MA amendments

D. 2018 IRC

Rationale: MA CSL exams are based on the current adopted IRC cycle with

state-specific amendments.Q3 A building that contains a place of religious worship is classified as which occupancy?

• Group B
• Group A-3
• Group E
• Group F-1

Rationale: Assembly uses such as worship fall under A-3.

Q4 Which soil type provides the least bearing capacity?

• Gravel
• Sand
• Clay
• Bedrock

Rationale: Clay is the weakest and most expansive soil type.

Q5 2 / 4

The maximum rise for residential stair risers under the MA amendments is:

• 8 1/4"
• 8"
• 7 1/2"
• 7"

Rationale: MA modifies IRC to allow a maximum stair rise of 8 inches.

Q6 What is the minimum clear width of a residential stairway?

• 30 inches
• 36 inches
• 32 inches
• 40 inches

Rationale: Minimum width is 36" above handrail height.

Q7 What is the minimum ceiling height in habitable rooms?

• 6' 6"
• 7' 2"
• 7' 0"
• 8' 0"

Rationale: Habitable rooms require at least a 7’ ceiling.

Q8 3 / 4

Handrails on stairs must be installed when the number of risers is:

• 2 or more
• 5 or more
• 4 or more
• 3 or more

Rationale: IRC mandates handrails for 4 or more risers.

Q9

Fireblocking is required at intervals not exceeding:

• 15 feet
• 8 feet
• 10 feet
• 6 feet

Rationale: Fireblocking every 10 feet vertically slows fire spread.

Q10 What is the minimum thickness for concrete foundation walls?

• 6 inches
• 7 inches
• 8 inches
• 10 inches

Rationale: Standard foundations require 8" thick concrete walls.

Q11

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