Registration Exam Practice Questions

Washington General Contractor Registration Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is required to register as a general contractor in

Washington State?

• Proof of business insurance
• Passing a trade-specific exam
• Proof of liability insurance and a bond
• Proof of apprenticeship hours

Rationale: Washington requires general contractors to provide proof of

liability insurance and a surety bond as part of the registration process.

• How long is a Washington general contractor registration valid?
• 1 year 1 / 4

• 2 years
• 3 years
• 5 years

Rationale: General contractor registrations in Washington are valid for

two years before renewal is required.

• Which of the following best describes the role of a general contractor?
• Designs building plans
• Manages construction projects and coordinates subcontractors
• Issues building permits
• Inspects construction work

Rationale: A general contractor oversees construction projects, hires

subcontractors, and ensures the project meets legal and safety requirements.

• What is the minimum insurance coverage required for general

contractors in Washington?

A. $25,000

B. $50,000

C. $100,000

D. $250,000

Rationale: Washington law requires general contractors to maintain a

minimum of $100,000 liability insurance coverage. 2 / 4

5. If a contractor hires a subcontractor who is unlicensed, the contractor:

• Is not responsible for the subcontractor’s actions
• May be held liable for any damages caused by the subcontractor
• Can transfer liability to the subcontractor
• Must report to OSHA only

Rationale: The general contractor remains responsible for all work

performed under their contract, including work by unlicensed subcontractors.

• In Washington, which agency enforces contractor registration laws?

A. OSHA

• Department of Labor & Industries
• Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I)
• Environmental Protection Agency

Rationale: L&I administers and enforces the contractor registration

requirements in Washington.

• Which of the following is a legal requirement before starting

residential construction in Washington?

• Only hire subcontractors with over 5 years of experience
• Begin work without a contract if the homeowner agrees
• Obtain a building permit
• Purchase materials in advance 3 / 4

Rationale: Obtaining a building permit ensures the work complies with

local building codes and safety standards.

• What is the maximum penalty for contracting without registration in

Washington?

A. $500

B. $1,000

C. $5,000

• $1,000 per day

Rationale: Contractors working without proper registration can face fines

up to $1,000 per day under Washington law.

• A contractor is required to keep records of contracts, change orders,

and receipts for how long?

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

Rationale: Washington law requires contractors to maintain project

records for at least three years.

• What is the purpose of a surety bond for contractors?
• Protects the contractor from lawsuits
• Guarantees a loan for the project
• / 4