Understanding the NASCLA Exam: Why It’s the Best Option for Multi-State Contractors

For contractors looking to expand their business beyond state lines, the process of getting licensed in multiple states can be a time-consuming and costly challenge. That’s where the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors comes in. Often referred to simply as the NASCLA exam, this multi-state licensing solution offers a streamlined path for contractors who want to work across multiple jurisdictions without taking separate exams for each state. At @HomePrep, we help hundreds of contractors prepare for and pass the NASCLA exam every year. In this guide, we’ll explain what the NASCLA exam is, why it’s the best choice for multi-state contractors, and how you can prepare to pass it on your first attempt.

What Is the NASCLA Exam?

The National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) Exam is a nationally recognized licensing exam for commercial general contractors. It is designed to replace the need for contractors to take separate state-specific exams in multiple locations.

Key Features of the NASCLA Exam:

Multi-State Recognition – Accepted by more than 15 states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and others.
Comprehensive Content – Covers all aspects of commercial general contracting, from project management and safety to business law and code compliance.
Open-Book Format – Candidates can use approved reference materials during the test, but must be skilled in navigating them efficiently.
Administered by PSI – Available at testing centers nationwide and through remote online proctoring.

Why the NASCLA Exam is Ideal for Multi-State Contractors

If your goal is to grow your contracting business beyond state borders, the NASCLA exam is the fastest and most efficient way to achieve that.

1. Save Time and Money

Instead of studying for, scheduling, and paying for multiple state exams, you take one NASCLA exam that can be applied to multiple states.
As you grow your business, you simply apply for reciprocity in additional states rather than re-testing.

2. Instant Credibility

Holding a NASCLA-accredited license is a mark of professionalism and expertise.
Clients and partners in multiple states recognize your credentials immediately.

3. Flexibility for Expansion

If you decide to enter a new state market, you don’t have to start the licensing process from scratch.
Simply apply for a reciprocal license in that state with your NASCLA certificate.

4. Higher Earning Potential

The ability to bid on projects in multiple states increases your revenue opportunities.
Avoid being limited to local work, especially during seasonal slowdowns.

Which States Accept the NASCLA Exam?

As of now, the following states recognize the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
Florida
Georgia
Louisiana
Mississippi
Nevada
New Mexico
North Carolina
Oregon
South Carolina
Tennessee
Utah
Virginia

This list is continuously growing, making NASCLA an increasingly valuable certification.

What’s on the NASCLA Exam?

The NASCLA exam is a rigorous, open-book test that evaluates your knowledge of:

Major Content Areas:

Business Organization and Financial Management
Project Management and Contract Administration
Site Preparation and Earthwork
Concrete, Masonry, and Structural Systems
Thermal and Moisture Protection
Mechanical and Electrical Systems
Safety and OSHA Standards
Construction Estimating and Bidding

Exam Details:

Format: 115 multiple-choice questions.
Time Limit: 5 hours.
Passing Score: 70%.
Open-Book: Candidates can bring a list of approved reference materials.

Approved Reference Books Include:

NASCLA Contractor’s Guide to Business, Law, and Project Management.
International Building Code (IBC).
Modern Masonry: Brick, Block, Stone.
Carpentry and Building Construction.
Building Construction Illustrated.

Learning how to navigate these books quickly and efficiently is a critical skill for passing the exam.

How to Prepare for the NASCLA Exam

Although the NASCLA exam is open-book, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Successful candidates know how to use their reference materials quickly and accurately while managing their time.

Tips for Effective Preparation:

Choose a State-Specific NASCLA Prep Course – At @HomePrep, our NASCLA exam prep course is designed to cover every topic you’ll encounter on the test.
Master Reference Navigation – Practice finding answers in your books using tabs, highlights, and the index.
Take Practice Exams – Our course includes full-length practice tests that simulate the real exam experience.
Study Business and Law Concepts – Many candidates struggle with the business and law section, so give it extra attention.
Use Time Management Techniques – Focus on answering the easiest questions first, then return to the more challenging ones.

Why Choose @HomePrep for NASCLA Exam Prep?

At @HomePrep, we’ve helped thousands of contractors pass the NASCLA exam with confidence. Our prep course includes:

Comprehensive Study Guides – Covering every content area in detail.
Interactive Practice Exams – Realistic questions and time limits to help you build confidence.
Reference Navigation Training – Learn how to use your approved books efficiently.
24/7 Online Access – Study at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.
Expert Support – Our team is here to answer your questions and keep you on track.

Start Your Multi-State Career with NASCLA and @HomePrep

If you’re ready to expand your contracting business beyond state borders, the NASCLA exam is your best option. And with @HomePrep, you can prepare quickly, efficiently, and with confidence. 👉 Explore our NASCLA exam prep course at athomeprep.com. 👉 Study on your schedule with flexible, online learning. 👉 Pass on your first attempt and start taking your business anywhere you want to go. Don’t let state borders limit your success. Take the first step toward becoming a multi-state contractor today.