Contractor Licensing Guides
If you are a contractor working toward your license, passing the required ICC contractor exam is a critical step in the process. These guides are designed to explain the exam process in plain language so you know what to expect, how to prepare, and how to avoid common mistakes that delay licensing.
Licensing requirements vary by state and city, but many jurisdictions rely on exams published by the International Code Council and administered through Pearson VUE. Understanding how these exams work before you register can save you time, money, and unnecessary retesting.
Below you’ll find step-by-step guidance organized by topic. New articles are added regularly.
Johnson County and National ICC Exam Equivalents
Many contractors in Johnson County, Kansas register using a local exam ID (the “KG” versions). Some testing sites also display the national equivalent exams (the “G” versions). These exams cover similar scopes, but the exact version you must take depends on what your licensing authority accepts.
Always confirm your required exam ID with your local code authority before registering.
Common Johnson County contractor exams we cover:
| License Type |
Exam Name (Johnson County) |
Johnson County Exam ID |
National Equivalent |
| A |
Standard General Building Contractor |
550, KGA |
G11 |
| B |
Standard Building Contractor |
551, KGB |
G12 |
| C |
Standard Residential Building Contractor |
552, KGC |
G13 |
| DR |
Roofing Contractor/Subcontractor |
553, KGP |
G14 |
| DW |
Framing Contractor |
846, KGJ |
N/A |
Why this matters:
When you register through Pearson VUE, you may see multiple versions of what sounds like the same exam. The safest approach is to register using the exact exam ID your licensing office requires.