Is The NASCLA Exam Prep Worth It? Find Out Now!
- Matthew Cannon
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
Are you ready to take your contracting business to the next level? If expanding your operations across state lines has been on your mind, then taking the exam might be your golden ticket. At National Construction Academy, we've guided thousands of contractors through this pivotal career step and seen firsthand how proper preparation transforms careers. This comprehensive exam serves as a master key to contractor licensing in 18 states and territories, opening doors that would otherwise require multiple exams, fees, and headaches. But is investing in exam prep worth it? Let's explore how the right preparation approach could be your smartest business decision this year.
Key Takeaways
NASCLA certification allows contractors to work in multiple states with just one exam, significantly reducing licensing costs and time investments.
Proper exam preparation is essential for passing the challenging 115-question test, with most successful candidates investing 4-6 weeks of dedicated study time.
Building contractors with NASCLA credentials report higher earnings, access to larger commercial projects, and greater resilience during regional economic downturns.
Table of Contents
Understanding the NASCLA Exam
The NASCLA Commercial General Building Exam isn't just another certification—it's a strategic career asset developed by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies and administered by the PSI. This rigorous assessment consists of 115 scored questions (out of 125 total) with a challenging 5.5-hour time limit. To pass the NASCLA, you'll need to achieve at least 81 correct answers (70%).
What makes this exam unique is its open-book format, allowing you to bring approved reference materials. However, don't mistake this for an easy test—the vast amount of content and time pressure make thorough preparation essential.
Currently, 19 states accept this credential, including major construction markets like Florida, the Virgin Islands, West Virginia, Nevada, and Arizona.
The NASCLA's role extends beyond testing—they work towards standardizing contractor licensing regulations nationwide while maintaining quality standards in the industry.
The Financial Case for NASCLA Certification
Let's talk dollars and sense. The NASCLA exam requires a modest investment: a $35 application fee plus a $130 testing fee. Compare that to the cost of pursuing individual state licenses:
Approach | Initial Costs | Time Investment | Long-term Value |
State-by-State | $500-$1,500+ per state | Months for multiple exams | Limited to specific regions |
NASCLA | $165 + prep materials | One exam, one study period | Access to 18 markets |
Beyond these direct savings, the return on investment becomes exponential when you consider:
Higher-paying contracts in commercial construction across multiple states
Ability to pursue out-of-state opportunities without additional licensing hurdles
Recession-proofing your business through geographic diversification
According to construction industry statistics, contractors operating in multiple states typically see higher annual revenue than those limited to a single state. This business expansion potential makes proper exam preparation not just worthwhile but essential.
NASCLA Exam Content Breakdown
The exam covers nine primary content areas, with the heaviest emphasis placed on General Requirements and Procurement and Contracting Requirements. These sections focus on essential knowledge for commercial construction projects.
Other key areas include:
Site Construction
Concrete and Masonry
Mechanical and Plumbing Systems
Electrical Systems
The contracting requirements and general requirements sections typically prove most challenging. Understanding contracts, law and project management, business, and regulatory compliance is essential not only for passing the exam but for actual job site success.
NASCLA Exam Prep Options
When it comes to preparing for this career-defining exam, you have several paths that you can take to prepare for the exam:
Self-Study Approach
This budget-friendly option involves purchasing the official reference materials and creating your study plan. While economical, this approach shows lower first-attempt success rates and requires exceptional self-discipline.
Comprehensive Exam Prep Courses
Professional courses like those we offer at National Construction Academy typically range from $400-800 and include:
Structured study materials aligned with exam content
Instructor support from experienced contractors
Practice tests simulating actual exam conditions
Time management strategies specific to the 5.5-hour format
Hybrid Approach
Many successful candidates combine focused courses with supplemental self-study, particularly for their weakest knowledge areas. This balanced strategy offers both structure and flexibility.
Success Strategies And Preparation
The difference lies in strategic preparation. Successful candidates consistently report these key strategies:
Creating a realistic study plan with daily goals over 4-6 weeks
Mastering reference material organization with tabs for quick access
Taking multiple practice exams under timed conditions
Focusing heavily on the most weighted sections
Reviewing missed questions to identify knowledge gaps
Remember, with a maximum of three attempts allowed before reapplication, thorough preparation isn't just helpful—it's essential for career advancement.
Post-Certification Steps And Maximizing Your NASCLA Investment
Once you've passed the NASCLA exam, your name enters the NASCLA National Examination Database, but your journey doesn't end there. To maximize your investment:
Highlight your NASCLA certification in marketing materials to demonstrate your elite status
Research additional state-specific requirements (like business law exams) before bidding on projects
Develop relationships with suppliers and subcontractors in your target expansion states
Join contractor associations in new markets to establish your presence
Many successful contractors create a phased expansion plan, gradually entering new markets rather than attempting immediate multi-state operations. This measured approach allows you to leverage your certification without overextending your resources.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Preparing for the NASCLA Exam
Even well-intentioned candidates can undermine their success when they do one or a few of the following pitfalls:
Underestimating the exam's complexity and cramming last-minute
Failing to properly organize reference materials for quick access during the timed exam
Neglecting to take practice tests under realistic conditions
Spreading study time too thin rather than creating dedicated learning blocks
Focusing solely on familiar content rather than addressing knowledge gaps
Avoiding these common mistakes significantly increases your chances of first-attempt success, saving both time and application fees.
Is NASCLA Exam Prep Really Worth It?
The short answer? Absolutely. When you consider the exam's 70% passing threshold and the limit of three attempts, proper preparation isn't just helpful—career advancement must become a general contractor. Unprepared candidates often waste both time and money on failed attempts, while those who invest in quality exam prep typically pass on their first try, accelerating their path to multi-state licensing and higher earnings.
The difference between passing and failing often comes down to structured preparation that covers all exam content areas, effective reference material organization, and timed practice that builds confidence and reduces test anxiety. For most contractors, this investment yields returns many times over through expanded business opportunities and competitive advantages in multiple markets.
FAQs
How difficult is the NASCLA exam compared to state-specific contractor tests?
The NASCLA exam is generally more comprehensive than individual state exams, covering a broader range of topics. However, its standardized format makes targeted preparation more straightforward, often resulting in higher pass rates for well-prepared candidates.
Can I still use my NASCLA certification if I move to another state?
What happens if I fail the NASCLA exam on my first attempt?
Do I still need to take state-specific business law exams with a NASCLA certification?
How should I organize my reference materials for the open-book exam?
Conclusion
The path to multi-state contracting success runs directly through the NASCLA exam, and proper preparation is your vehicle for getting there.
At National Construction Academy, we've seen how this single credential transforms careers, opens doors to lucrative opportunities, and provides stability through economic ups and downs.
Whether you're a seasoned contractor looking to expand or an ambitious professional plotting your career trajectory, investing in comprehensive exam preparation isn't just worth it; it's essential for maximizing your potential in today's competitive construction industry.
Ready to transform your contracting future? Reach out today for a personalized consultation on how our exam prep programs can help you conquer the NASCLA exam and build the multi-state business you've always envisioned.
%20%20.png)
Comments