Is the NASCLA Exam Really That Hard? A Realistic Look with Prep Tips

If you’re planning to get licensed as a contractor across multiple U.S. states, chances are you’ve come across the NASCLA exam—a widely accepted exam developed by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies. While it’s a big step toward expanding your contracting business, many prospective candidates find themselves asking: “Is the NASCLA exam really that hard?”

Understanding the NASCLA Exam: What Are You Up Against?

Before we can assess how difficult the NASCLA exam prep is, we need to understand what it covers.

The NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors is designed to test a wide range of knowledge necessary for general contractors. It’s accepted by over a dozen states including Arizona, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina, and others—making it highly valuable for multi-state contractors.

Exam Structure:

• 115 questions (only 107 are scored; 8 are pretest questions)
  
• Open book format
  
• 5.5 hours to complete
  
• Minimum passing score: typically around 70%

Why Do People Say the NASCLA Exam Is Hard?

While “open book” might sound easy at first glance, the NASCLA exam isn’t a walk in the park. Here’s why candidates find it challenging:

Volume of Reference Materials

The exam is open book—but here’s the catch: you must bring and be familiar with 21 reference manuals! These include technical manuals, OSHA safety standards, contract law guides, and building codes.

Time Management

With 115 questions in just over 5 hours, you’ll need to locate answers quickly within the reference materials. This means knowing your books well and being efficient with your time.

Depth and Breadth of Topics

The exam tests knowledge in:

• Project management
  
• Estimating and bidding
  
• Safety and OSHA regulations
  
• Building construction codes
  
• Business law
  
• Contract management

This broad coverage can be overwhelming without a strategic NASCLA exam prep approach.

Analytical Thinking

The questions aren’t always straightforward. Many require scenario-based reasoning, meaning you’ll need to apply knowledge, not just recall it.

Who Is the NASCLA Exam For?

The exam is ideal for general contractors who want reciprocal licensing in multiple states. It’s a great opportunity if you:

• Work on commercial or residential projects across state lines
  
• Want to avoid sitting multiple state-specific exams
  
• Aim to expand your contracting business nationally

That said, it’s not just for large firms. Even small contractors can benefit if they plan to operate in more than one state.

Can You Pass the NASCLA Exam Without Formal Training?

Technically yes but it’s not recommended. While the exam is open book, organization and preparation are key. Most successful candidates rely on structured NASCLA exam prep programs, practice tests, and timed simulations.

Here’s why prep matters:

• You’ll learn how to tab and organize your reference books efficiently.
  
• Practice exams simulate the real test environment and help build confidence.
  
• Prep courses often include highlighted sections of the manuals, helping you quickly navigate to answers.

NASCLA Exam Prep: What Works?

To increase your chances of passing, you’ll want to follow a proven NASCLA exam prep strategy. Here’s what the most effective prep involves:

Use an Official NASCLA Book Set

Make sure you have all 21 reference books required for the exam. You can purchase a NASCLA book bundle or buy them individually. Once you have them, tab and highlight key sections.

Enroll in a NASCLA Prep Course

Whether in-person or online, a good prep course will:

• Walk you through how to tab and navigate each book
  
• Provide practice exams that mirror the real test
  
• Offer strategies for time management and open-book efficiency

Practice with Timed Exams

This helps you get used to working under pressure. Aim to take multiple full-length practice exams. These will:

• Familiarize you with question formats
  
• Improve your book navigation speed
  
• Reduce test anxiety

Create a Study Schedule

Give yourself at least 4 to 6 weeks of focused study time. Break it down like this:

• Week 1-2: Review and tab reference books
  
• Week 3-4: Practice open-book navigation and take quizzes
  
• Week 5-6: Full-length mock exams and final review

Conclusion

If you’re serious about growing your contracting business across multiple states, taking the NASCLA exam is a strategic move. Yes, it’s a demanding test but it’s manageable with good prep. Invest in a solid NASCLA exam prep program, stay disciplined with your study schedule, and simulate the real exam experience.

Soon enough, you’ll be joining the ranks of contractors who’ve conquered the exam and opened doors to a broader, multi-state market.