With @Home Prep, you can prepare to become a Virginia contractor, get application support, and renew your contractor license with continuing education all in one place with our state-specific online courses.

Why Apply for a Virginia Contractor’s License?

In Virginia, any construction work that exceeds $1,000 requires a Virginia Contractor’s License. Virginia offers a variety of different types of licenses depending on the work you plan to do. Contractor Licenses in the following trades: electrical, plumbing, heating, and air conditioning (HVAC), gas fitting, and various types of contracting (i.e., Class A, B, and C) are issued through The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). The class of license determines the value of the contracts or projects a Virginia contractor may take on, as well as the specialty or type of work they are allowed to perform.

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  • Virginia 8 Hour Pre-Licensing Course

    $102.99

    Topics include:

    • Licensing
    • Business Structures
    • Bidding and Estimating
    • Risk Management
    • Lien Law
    • Taxes
    • Standards of Conduct
    • Safety and much much more!

    8 Hour Pre-Licensing: $102.99
    Trade Exam Review: $219.99
    Class A or B Exam Practice Tests: $102.99

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  • HVAC Exam Prep

    Virginia HVAC (Master/Journeyman) Exam Prep

    $219.99

    HVAC licensing in Virginia is at 3 levels: journeyman, master, and contractor. To become either a journeyman HVAC or a master HVAC , there are two examination portions that must be passed: statutory and regulatory portion and the trade portion. This license allows for individual to do work for heating systems, boilers, process piping, and mechanical refrigeration systems. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

     

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  • Virginia Contractor Class A/B Exam Prep

    $219.99

    Virginia requires two licenses to become a contractor: Business/Law and Technical. The Class A/B license covers the business and law portion and is required by the designated employee or member of responsible management. There is an 8-hour Pre-License requirement for all new Virginia Contractors. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Electrical Continuing Education

    Virginia Electrical Continuing Education 2017 NEC (3 Hours)

    $43.99

    Virginia Electricians (Masters and Journeyman) are required to obtain 3 hours of continuing education for each renewal. Our 2017 NEC Changes course is state-approved and will satisfy all of your required hours. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

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  • Virginia Plumbing 2018 Code Update Continuing Education (3 Hours)

    $43.99

    Virginia Plumbers (Masters and Journeyman) are required to obtain 3 hours of continuing education for each renewal. The following courses are state approved: 2018 IPC Changes. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

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  • HVAC Exam Prep

    Virginia Gas Fitter (Master/Journeyman) Exam Prep

    $219.99

    This exam prep course takes the learner through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing exactly what to highlight. After highlighting is completed in each book, you have the option to take an online practice test to reinforce concepts presented. The program is fully narrated. Pre-approval from the State licensing board is required to take the exam, and this preapproval can be obtained by submitting a completed application.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Virginia Home Improvement Exam Prep

    $164.99

    This exam prep course takes the learner through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing exactly what to highlight. After highlighting is completed in each book, you have the option to take an online practice test to reinforce concepts presented. The program is fully narrated. You must also obtain a Contractor’s Class A, B, or C License, Pass the Home Improvement exam (pre-approval is required), and pass all three required exams (Virginia, General, & Advanced).

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Electrical Continuing Education

    Virginia Electrical Exam Prep

    $219.99

    The Virginia Electrical Exam Review includes narrated highlighting guides, practice tests, theory, calculations, instructor support and test-taking tips and strategies. Topics include circuits, grounding, fuse and breakers, metal tubing, conduit, motors, generators and more. The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Virginia Residential Building Exam Prep

    $219.99

    This exam prep course takes the learner through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing exactly what to highlight. After highlighting is completed in each book, you have the option to take an online practice test to reinforce concepts presented. The program is fully narrated.  You must also obtain a Contractor’s Class A, B, or C License, Pass the Residential Building exam, Pre-approval from the State licensing board is required to take the exam, and this preapproval can be obtained by submitting a completed application, and pass all three required exams (Virginia, General, & Advanced).

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Virginia Plumbing Exam Prep

    $219.99

    This exam prep course takes the learner through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing exactly what to highlight. After highlighting is completed in each book, you have the option to take an online practice test to reinforce concepts presented. The program is fully narrated. Pre-approval from the State licensing board is required to take the exam, and this preapproval can be obtained by submitting a completed application. To become either a journeyman plumber or a master plumber, there are two examination portions that must be passed: statutory and regulatory portion and the trade portion. To become a plumbing contractor, a Virginia Class A, B, or C license must also be obtained along with a master plumber license.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

     

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  • Virginia Commercial Building Exam Prep

    $219.99
    • Our online commercial building exam review is one of the best online exam review programs.
    • The program takes you through each one of the reference books that you are allowed to use during the examination showing you exactly what to highlight. After your highlighting is completed with each book, you have the option take an online practice test to reinforce concepts presented. Also, there is an extensive math and plans analysis portion.
    • The entire program is fully narrated.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Contractor Class A/B Practice Tests Complete Package

    $363.96

    The Virginia Contractor Class A/B Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Contractor Class A/B Practice Tests
    • Virginia Contractors Guide to Business and Law
    • Virginia Business Law Tabs
    • Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code

    Virginia requires two licenses to become a contractor: Business/Law and Technical. The Class A/B license covers the business and law portion and is required by the designated employee or member of responsible management. There is an 8-hour Pre-License requirement for all new Virginia Contractors. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • engineer course

    Virginia Commercial Improvement Exam Prep

    $164.99

    This license allows for repair or improvement to non-residential property and multi-family property as defined in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well as an extensive math and plans analysis portion. The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • HVAC Exam Prep

    Virginia HVAC (Master/Journeyman) Exam Complete Package

    $720.95

    HVAC licensing in Virginia is at 3 levels: journeyman, master, and contractor. To become either a journeyman HVAC or a master HVAC , there are two examination portions that must be passed: statutory and regulatory portion and the trade portion. This license allows for individual to do work for heating systems, boilers, process piping, and mechanical refrigeration systems. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Application Processing

    Virginia Application Processing

    $129.99$199.99

    @HomePrep Application Processing is here to ensure your application to become a state licensed contractor gets filled out correctly and promptly. We provide a professional service ensuring your privacy and comfort throughout the entire process. Following your purchase of the Virginia Application Processing our AP Coordinator will contact you to discuss the next steps. If you have any questions please call us at 800-952-0910. We look forward to working with you.

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  • Concrete Construction

    Virginia Concrete Contracting Exam Review

    $164.99

    The Virginia Concrete Contracting Exam is required to be passed if you are applying for the CEM classification. This license provides for all work in connection with the processing, proportioning, batching, mixing, conveying and placing of concrete composed of materials common to the concrete industry. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Virginia Drywall Contracting Exam Prep

    $219.99

    The Virginia Drywall Contracting Exam Prep includes the installation, taping, and finishing of drywall, panels and assemblies of gypsum wallboard, sheathing, and cementitious board. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well. The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Gas Fitter (Master/Journeyman) Exam Complete Package

    $515.96

    The Virginia Gas Fitter (Master/Journeyman) Complete Package, includes the following:

    • Virginia Gas Fitter (Master/Journeyman) Exam Review
    • 2018 International Fuel Gas Code
    • NFPA 58
    • Virginia Gasfitter Tab Pack

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Fire Alarm

    Virginia Fire Alarm Systems Contracting Exam Prep

    $219.99

    This license includes the installation, repair, or improvement of fire alarm systems that operate at 50 volts or less. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Framing

    Virginia Framing Subcontractor Exam Review

    $164.99

    This license includes the construction, removal, repair, or improvement to any framing or rough carpentry necessary for the construction of framed structures. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • HVAC Exam Prep

    Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Exam Review

    $164.99

    The Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Exam is required to be passed if you are applying for the REF classification. This license includes the installation, repair, or removal of any refrigeration equipment (excluding HVAC equipment). @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Exam reference the following:

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  • Virginia Plumbing Complete Package

    $339.97

    The Virginia Plumbing Complete Package Includes the following:

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Virginia Insulation and Weather Stripping Contracting Exam Prep

    $164.99

    The Virginia Insulation and Weather Stripping Contracting Exam is required to be passed if you are applying for the INS classification. This license includes installation, repair, improvement, or removal of materials classified as insulating media used for the purpose of temperature/sound control of buildings. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Home Improvement Exam Complete Package

    $1,283.87

    The Virginia Home Improvement Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Home Improvement Exam Review
    • 2018 International Residential Code
    • Carpentry and Building Construction
    • Contractor’s Guide to Quality Concrete Construction
    • Gypsum Construction Handbook
    • Modern Masonry
    • ICC A117.1-2017
    • Osha
    • Painting and Decorating Craftsman’s Manual and Textbook
    • Finish Carpenter’s Manual
    • Standard Practice for Installation of Rigid Poly Vinyl Chloride 2021 Edition
    • Insulation Handbook
    • Virginia Home Improvement Tab Packet

    *The Business and Law Exam must be passed to become a licensed contractor

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

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  • Electrical Continuing Education

    Virginia Electrical Exam Complete Package

    $520.96

    The Virginia Electrical Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Drywall Contracting Exam Complete Package

    $756.94

    Virginia Drywall Contracting Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Concrete Construction

    Virginia Concrete Contracting Exam Complete Package

    $1,157.92

    The Virginia Concrete Contracting Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Concrete Contracting Exam Review
    • Pipe and Excavation Contracting
    • 2015 International Building Code
    • Placing Reinforcing Bars
    • ACI 318-14
    • Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures
    • Osha
    • Formwork for Concrete
    • Virginia Concrete Tab Pack

    The Virginia Concrete Contracting Exam is required to be passed if you are applying for the CEM classification. This license provides for all work in connection with the processing, proportioning, batching, mixing, conveying and placing of concrete composed of materials common to the concrete industry. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Exam Complete Package

    $487.96

    The Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Complete Package includes the following:

    • Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
    • 2015 International Mechanical
    • Virginia Refrigeration Tab Pack
    • Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Exam Review

    The Virginia Refrigeration Contracting Exam is required to be passed if you are applying for the REF classification. This license includes the installation, repair, or removal of any refrigeration equipment (excluding HVAC equipment). @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Framing

    Virginia Framing Subcontractor Exam Complete Package

    $699.94

    The Virginia Framing Subcontractor Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Framing Subcontractor Exam Review
    • 2015 Interntional Residential Code
    • 2015 Interntional Building Code
    • Carpentry and Building
    • Osha
    • Virginia Framing Subcontractor Tab Pack

    This license includes the construction, removal, repair, or improvement to any framing or rough carpentry necessary for the construction of framed structures. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Residential Building Exam Complete Package

    $764.92

    The Virginia Residential Building Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Residential Building Exam Review
    • Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
    • Virginia Builders Technical Supplement
    • Carpentry and Building Construction
    • 2018 International Residential Code
    • Virginia, Contractors Guild to Business and Project Management
    • OSHA
    • Virginia Residential Building Tab Packet

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Farm Improvement Contracting Exam Prep

    $164.99

    This license includes installation, repair or improvement of a nonresidential farm building or structure, or nonresidential farm accessory-use structure, or additions thereto. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Insulation and Weather Stripping Contracting Exam Complete Package

    $454.95

    The Virginia Insulation and Weather-Stripping Contracting Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Insulation and Weather-Stripping Contracting Exam Review
    • Osha
    • Insulation Handbook
    • Carpentry and Building
    • Virginia Insulation and Weather-Stripping Tab Pack

    The Virginia Insulation and Weather-Stripping Contracting Exam is required to be passed if you are applying for the INS classification. This license includes installation, repair, improvement, or removal of materials classified as insulating media used for the purpose of temperature/sound control of buildings. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Fire Alarm

    Virginia Fire Alarm Systems Contracting Exam Complete Package

    $834.95

    The Virginia Fire Alarm Systems Contracting Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Fire Alarm Systems Contracting Exam Review
    • 2011 National Electrical Code
    • National Electrical Code 2011 Handbook
    • NFPA 72
    • Virginia Fire Alarm Systems Tab Pack

    This license includes the installation, repair, or improvement of fire alarm systems that operate at 50 volts or less. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well. @HomePrep is a National Leader in online education. With over 100,000 satisfied students and a course catalog of over 1,000 classes, we are here to help you – Invest in Yourself.

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Commercial Improvement Exam Complete Package

    $1,097.90

    The Virginia Commercial Improvement Exam Complete Package includes:

    • Virginia Commercial Improvement Exam Review
    • 2018 International Building Code
    • 2018 International Residential Code
    • Carpentry and Building
    • Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures
    • Modern Masonry
    • Gypsum Construction Handbook
    • Osha
    • Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code
    • Virginia Commercial Improvement Tab Pack

    This license allows for repair or improvement to non-residential property and multi-family property as defined in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. Our program takes you through each one of the reference books that the exam is based on showing you exactly what to highlight. There are optional practice tests as well as an extensive math and plans analysis portion. The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

     

    View Product
  • Virginia Farm Improvement Contracting Exam Complete Package

    $1,103.90

    The Virginia Farm Improvement Contracting Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Farm Improvement Contracting Exam Review
    • Pipe and Excavation Contracting
    • Osha
    • Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures
    • Modern Masonry
    • Guide to Handling, Installing, Bracing Wood Trusses
    • 2015 International Residential Code
    • 2015 International Building Code
    • Carpentry and Building
    • Virginia Farm Improvement Tab Pack

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product
  • Virginia Commercial Building Exam Complete Package

    $1,278.86

    The Virginia Commercial Building Exam Complete Package includes the following:

    • Virginia Commercial Building Exam Review
    • Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
    • 2015 International Building Code
    • Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, 2009
    • Technical Digest No. 9 – Handling and Erection of Steel Joists and Joist Girders
    • Carpentry and Building Construction
    • Gypsum Construction Handbook
    • Placing Reinforcing Bars
    • The Contractor’s Guide to Quality Concrete Construction
    • Roofing Construction & Estimating
    • Modern Masonry
    • SDI Manual of Construction with Steel Deck
    • Pipe and Excavation Contracting
    • Virginia Commercial Building Contractor Permanent Tab Pack

    The highlighting guides and quizzes are designed to familiarize students with testing materials. We do not provide students with exact test questions, as the state does not release this information.

    View Product

Don't see your course or license type? Let us help.

Requirements To Obtain a Virginia Residential/Small Contractor License

All contractors who remodel, repair, improve or construct a one, two, three, or four family unit residences that do not exceed three stories in height must be licensed in the state of Tennessee. Applicants must take and pass two exams, business and law and the trade and finally apply with necessary business information, workers compensation and proof of insurance to the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors by calling 1-800-544-7693.

Please view our Application Processing Services to streamline this process.

To become eligible for a Virginia Contractor License, you may be required to meet specific age, experience, and education requirements. Virginia requires contractors to complete pre-licensing requirements for all classifications and then prepare and pass the required state exams. Before you can receive your Virginia Contractor’s License, the state of Virginia also requires you to receive a Surety Bond. The type of license you are applying for determines the amount of the bond you need to acquire.

Exam Overview

The Tennessee Residential/Small Contractor Exam is an open book 300-minute exam that requires a 73% score to pass. To use your time efficiently in the exam, it is extremely helpful to prepare in-depth and have your book tabbed and highlighted prior to the exam. Highlighting, tabs and written notes in reference materials are permitted prior to arriving at the test site. However, during the exam you may not write in the reference materials.

Exam Overview

The Tennessee Residential/Small Contractor Exam is an open book 300-minute exam that requires a 73% score to pass. To use your time efficiently in the exam, it is extremely helpful to prepare in-depth and have your book tabbed and highlighted prior to the exam. Highlighting, tabs and written notes in reference materials are permitted prior to arriving at the test site. However, during the exam you may not write in the reference materials.

Number of Questions 100
Exam Time 5 Hours
Pass Requirements 73% or 73 correct answers
Open Book Allowed Yes
Test Cost $57

Exam Overview

The Tennessee Residential/Small Contractor Exam is an open book 300-minute exam that requires a 73% score to pass. To use your time efficiently in the exam, it is extremely helpful to prepare in-depth and have your book tabbed and highlighted prior to the exam. Highlighting, tabs and written notes in reference materials are permitted prior to arriving at the test site. However, during the exam you may not write in the reference materials.

Exam Topics

The Tennessee Residential/Small Commercial Contractor exam is designed to assess the knowledge and competency of individuals seeking to become licensed contractors in Tennessee for residential and small commercial projects. The exam usually consists of multiple-choice questions that cover various aspects of construction and contracting, including:

Building Codes: Familiarity with local and national building codes and regulations is essential for any contractor. Questions may test your understanding of safety codes, structural requirements, and compliance with building standards. Construction Practices: This section may cover different construction techniques, material selection, construction sequencing, and best practices in residential and small commercial construction. Legal and Business Practices: Contractors must understand the legal aspects of the construction industry, such as contracts, licensing laws, insurance requirements, and project management. Knowledge of business practices like estimating, cost control, and accounting might also be tested.
Safety: Ensuring the safety of workers, clients, and the public is paramount in construction. Questions on safety practices, OSHA regulations, and hazard recognition may be included.
Blueprint Reading: Interpreting construction blueprints is crucial for contractors. Questions in this area may assess your ability to understand architectural and engineering drawings.
Trade-Specific Knowledge: Depending on the type of residential and small commercial contractor you want to be (e.g., general contractor, electrician, plumber, etc.), the exam may include trade-specific questions related to your chosen field.

The exam is generally timed, and you will need to achieve a passing score to obtain your contractor’s license. Each state may have its own exam structure and content, so it’s essential to check with the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors or the relevant licensing authority for the most up-to-date information on the exam’s specific requirements.

Before taking the exam, it’s advisable to study relevant reference materials and gain practical experience in the construction field to increase your chances of success.

Exam Overview

The Tennessee Residential/Small Contractor Exam is an open book 300-minute exam that requires a 73% score to pass. To use your time efficiently in the exam, it is extremely helpful to prepare in-depth and have your book tabbed and highlighted prior to the exam. Highlighting, tabs and written notes in reference materials are permitted prior to arriving at the test site. However, during the exam you may not write in the reference materials.

  • As a busy contractor with multiple state licenses and needs, it is nice to find a valuable source that can help fulfill my obligations from testing prep to CEU requirements.

    -Ken R.
  • I have finally experienced customer satisfaction in the highest form. You guys are so much more than a voice or words on the other side of the phone or screen. You are all real people who really care!

    - Soo C
  • Their training was first class. The website is easy to navigate and they provided me all the tools I needed to complete this very stressful task. All in all, they helped make this a positive experience.

    - Alfred R

Contractor License FAQs

The first step to obtaining your license is to complete an 8 Hour Pre-Licensing Course. This course is required for all potential contractors.

We also offer the materials needed to get your Class A, B, or C Contractor License.To be a Class A or Class B Contractor, individuals must pass an examination on the regulations of the board and on business management practices. You are also required to pass an examination specific to your type of work. The Board must pre-approve your ability to sit for the exam.

Exam Overview

  • Complete 8 Hour Pre-Licensing Course
  • Pass General, Advanced, and Law exams
  • Pass any specialty exams required for your trade
  • Submit an Application to the State
  • Show 5 years experience and a net worth of at least $45,000

Class B Contractor Requirements:

  • Complete 8 Hour Pre-Licensing Course
  • Pass General and Law exams
  • Pass any specialty exams required for your trade
  • Submit an Application to the State
  • Show 3 years experience and a net worth of at least $15,000

Class C Contractor Requirements:

  • Complete 8 Hour Pre-Licensing Course
  • Pass any specialty exams required for your trade
  • Submit an Application to the State
  • Show 2 years experience

By allowing us to be the chosen provider for exam prep courses, continuing education credits and a variety of other courses, students can be assured they are receiving state and industry approved training.

Virginia requires tradesman licenses for electrical, plumbing, HVAC and all gas fitting. The Virginia Board for Contractors licenses work at three levels, beginning with jobs of $1,000. Applicants need to complete eight hours of pre-license education before they may receive one.

Class C contractors perform or manage construction, removal, repair, or improvements when (i) the total value referred to in a single contract or project is over $1,000 but no more than $10,000, or (ii) the total value of all such construction, removal, repair, or improvements undertaken by such person within any twelve-month period is no more than $150,000.

We offer a wide range of exam prep books for the construction fields. Visit our bookstore to begin.

Licensing costs vary depending on the type of license you need. For example, some trades will cost more than others and some licenses, like the general contractors license, require additional certification. Those additional certifications add to the cost. If you have a specific question about the cost of study materials for your license, contact us. Our support team is here to help.

There may be additional permitting requirements established by local cities, towns, municipalities or governments below the state level beyond the Commonwealth of Virginia business registration requirements as well as the DPOR Board for Contractors licensing requirements. These vary and it remains the contractor’s responsibility to know and follow all registrations and permitting requirements pertinent to their specialty and industry.

According to Virginia state law, a general handyman does not need a license to perform basic repair and maintenance tasks for homeowners. However, if an unlicensed handyman does any work falling into the scope of a licensed contractor, he or she is subject to fines and possible prosecution. The major purpose of licensing is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Check with your licensing department for specific rules, but err on the side of caution as it’s better to be safe than sorry.

According to the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, all applicants must be over 18 years old and have some experience in order to receive their license. At the lowest level, or Class C license, you must have at least two years experience in the specialty. For Class B, you need 3 years. For Class A you need 5 years experience.

According to the Virginia DPOR, applications are processed on a first in – first out basis. The average processing time for most applications is approximately 30 days. This is just an average and it can be more or less depending on a number of factors.

The license will be issued at the initial review and will be mailed to you if your application is complete and you have met all of the eligibility requirements. If your application is incomplete, then a letter will be sent to you outlining what was missing and what is needed to finish the review and issue your license.

Virginia Contacts

To apply for a contractor license, contact:

Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation 9960 Mayland Drive Suite 400
Richmond, VA 23233
1-804-367-8511

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To apply for a tradesman license, contact:

Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation 9960 Mayland Drive Suite 400
Richmond, VA 23233
1-804-367-8511

Website

To schedule your exam, contact:

PSI
3210 East Tropicana Las Vegas, NV 89121
1-800-733-9267

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