Licensing Exam Practice Test Questions

Minnesota Residential Building Contractor Licensing Exam Practice Test Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the minimum ceiling height required for habitable rooms in

Minnesota?

• 6 feet 4 inches
• 6 feet 6 inches
• 7 feet
• 8 feet

Minimum ceiling height for habitable spaces per IRC: 7 feet.

2. The primary purpose of the Minnesota Residential Building Code is to:

• Promote contractor profitability
• Provide minimum standards for safety, health, and public welfare
• Ensure uniform pricing 1 / 3

• Reduce design variation

Codes ensure minimum safety and health standards.

3. A building permit is required when:

• Painting interior walls
• Constructing or altering a structure
• Replacing carpet
• Minor landscaping

Structural changes require permits by law.

4. For attics with a fixed stairway, the minimum headroom is:

• 6 feet 4 inches
• 6 feet 8 inches
• 7 feet
• No minimum

Stair headroom minimum is 6'8".

• Which of the following requires an energy code compliance check?
• Painting exterior siding
• Cabinet replacement only
• New residential construction
• Installing curtains

New homes must comply with MN Energy Code.

6. The frost depth in most regions of Minnesota is:

• 12 inches
• 24 inches 2 / 3

• 42 inches
• 60 inches

Minnesota requires footings below frost depth around 42".

7. A GFCI is required in:

• Hallways
• Bedrooms
• Living rooms
• Bathrooms

Bathrooms require GFCI protection for safety near water.

• What is the minimum guard height for decks above 30 inches?
• 32 inches
• 36 inches
• 40 inches
• 42 inches

36" guards minimize fall hazards.

9. Smoke alarms must be installed:

• Only in kitchens
• In each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and each level
• In the basement only
• Optional in remodeled areas

Required alarms throughout sleeping and living levels.

• What is the minimum width of a residential hallway?
• 30 inches
• / 3