Master Carpenter Licensing Exam

Master Carpenter Licensing Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a plumb line?
• Measure angles
• Level horizontal surfaces
• Determine vertical alignment
• Mark cut lines

Rationale: A plumb line is used to establish a true vertical reference,

ensuring structures are perfectly vertical.

• Which wood species is considered the hardest?
• Pine
• Cedar
• Hickory
• Spruce 1 / 4

Rationale: Hickory is among the hardest and most durable domestic

hardwoods, ideal for heavy-use applications.

• When installing a header over a door, what determines its size?
• Width of the door only
• Span of the opening and load above
• Thickness of the wall
• Type of nails used

Rationale: The size of a header is based on the span of the opening

and the load it must support.

• What is the minimum slope required for a residential roof?
• 1/4 inch per foot
• 1/2 inch per foot
• 3/4 inch per foot
• 2 inches per foot

Rationale: A minimum slope of 2 inches per foot (or 1:6 slope) is typically required for adequate water runoff on residential roofs.

• What is the purpose of a ledger board in deck construction?
• Support railing posts
• Attach the deck to the house structure
• Level the joists
• Provide decorative trim

Rationale: The ledger board anchors the deck to the house and

transfers load from the deck to the building frame. 2 / 4

• Which type of joint provides the greatest strength for a corner

cabinet?

• Butt joint
• Lap joint
• Dovetail joint
• Rabbet joint

Rationale: Dovetail joints interlock the wood pieces mechanically,

providing superior strength for corners.

• What is the primary reason for using pressure-treated lumber

outdoors?

• Resistance to splitting
• Resistance to decay and insects
• Aesthetic appeal
• Easier cutting

Rationale: Pressure-treated lumber is infused with chemicals to resist

rot and insect damage in outdoor environments.

• Which fastener is best for joining heavy timber in structural

applications?

• Brad nails
• Wood screws
• Lag bolts
• Staples 3 / 4

Rationale: Lag bolts provide strong mechanical connections for heavy

timber and structural loads.

• What is the recommended spacing for floor joists in residential

construction?

• 12 inches on center
• 16 inches on center
• 16–24 inches on center
• 36 inches on center

Rationale: Standard residential joist spacing is 16 or 24 inches on

center, depending on load and material type.

• Which saw is most appropriate for precise crosscuts in finish

carpentry?

• Circular saw
• Jigsaw
• Reciprocating saw
• Miter saw

Rationale: A miter saw provides accurate crosscuts at various angles,

essential for finish carpentry.

• What is the main purpose of a sill plate?
• Anchor roof trusses
• Transfer structural loads to the foundation
• Support ceiling joists
• Act as decorative trim
• / 4