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Civil engineering

Civil engineering is a broad field of engineering dealing with the planning, construction, and maintenance of fixed structures, or public works, as they are related to earth, water, or civilization and their processes. Most civil engineering today deals with power plants, bridges, roads, railways, structures, water supply, irrigation, the natural environment, sewer, flood control, transportation and traffic.

Engineering has developed from observations of the ways natural and constructed systems react and from the development of empirical equations that provide bases for design. Civil engineering is the broadest of the engineering fields, partly because it is the oldest of all engineering fields. In fact, engineering was once divided into only two fields - military and civil. Civil engineering was defined to distinguish it from military engineering. Within the US, some federal government funding and organization is still part of the United States Army as the Corps of Engineers. Civil engineering is still an umbrella term, comprised of many related specialties.

Sub-disciplines of civil engineering

General engineering

Earthwork from above in Szabolcs, Hungary.General civil engineering is concerned with the overall interface of human created fixed projects with the greater world. General civil engineers work closely with surveyors and specialized civil engineers to fit and serve fixed projects within their given site, community and terrain by designing grading, drainage, pavement, water supply, sewer service, electric and communications supply and land (real property) divisions. General engineers spend much of their time visiting project sites, developing community/neighborhood consensus, and preparing construction plans. General Civil Engineering is also referred to as Site/Civil Engineering; a branch of Civil Engineering that primarily focuses on converting a tract of land from usage to another. Site/Civil Engineers typically apply the principles of Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Transportation Engineering and Construction Engineering to residential, commercial, industrial and public works projects of all sizes and levels of construction.

Structural engineering

Structural engineering is concerned with the structural design and structural analysis of buildings, bridges, and other structures. This involves calculating the stresses and forces that act upon or arise within a structure, and designing the structure to successfully resist those forces and stresses. Resistance to wind and seismic loadings, especially performance near resonant frequencies, which affect the overall stability of a structure are major design concerns. Other factors such as durability and cost are also considered. In addition to design of new buildings, structural engineers may design a seismic retrofit for an existing structure to mitigate undesirable performance during earthquakes.

Fire protection engineering

Fire protection engineering, also called 'fire safety engineering' is the practice of application of science and engineering principles and experience to protect people and their environments from the destructive effects of fire. The underlying branches of science are fire science, fire dynamics and chemistry. Fire protection engineers, often civil engineers by training, typically design safeguards that aid in fighting fires, such as alarm, sprinkler, and smoke control systems. They are also involved at the design stage where structural design work is being done, and they provide expert advice on materials choices and in the protection of structural members. They are also employed as fire investigators, including such very large-scale cases as the analysis of the mechanism of the collapse of the World Trade Center. NASA uses fire protection engineers on its space program to ensure safety.

Geotechnical engineering

Geotechnical engineering is primarily concerned with the interaction of structures with earth materials, and structures constructed from earth materials. Geotechnical engineers analyze site conditions and design foundations and earthworks. Geotechnical engineers deal with soil properties, soil mechanics, compression and swelling of soils, seepage, slopes, embankments, retaining walls, ground and rock anchors, use of synthetic tensile materials in soil structures, soil-structure interaction, and soil dynamics.

Transportation engineering

Transportation engineering is concerned with moving people and goods efficiently, safely, and in a manner conducive to a vibrant community. This involves specifying, designing, constructing, and maintaining transportation infrastructure which includes streets, highways, rail systems, airports, ports, and mass transit. It includes areas such as transportation design, transportation planning, traffic engineering, urban engineering, queuing theory, pavement engineering, Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), and infrastructure management.

Environmental engineering

Wastewater treatment is a critical activity in environmental engineering, a sub-discipline of civil engineering.  Environmental engineering Environmental engineering deals with the treatment of chemical, biological, and/or thermal waste, the purification of water and air, and the remediation of contaminated sites, due to prior waste disposal or accidental contamination. Among the topics covered by environmental engineering are pollutant transport, water purification, sewage treatment, and hazardous waste management. Environmental engineers can be involved with pollution reduction, green engineering, and industrial ecology. Environmental engineering also deals with the gathering of information on the environmental consequences of proposed actions and the assessment of effects of proposed actions for the purpose of assisting society and policy makers in the decision making process. Environmental engineering is the contemporary term for sanitary engineering, though sanitary engineering traditionally had not included much of the hazardous waste management and environmental remediation work covered by the term environmental engineering. Some other terms in use are public health engineering and environmental health engineering.

Hydraulic engineering

Hydraulic engineering is concerned with the flow and conveyance of fluids, principally water. This area of civil engineering is intimately related to the design of pipelines, water distribution systems, drainage facilities (including bridges, dams, channels, culverts, levees, storm sewers), and canals. Hydraulic engineers design these facilities using the concepts of fluid pressure, fluid static’s, fluid dynamics, and hydraulics, among others.

Water resources engineering

Water resources engineering is concerned with the collection and management of water (as a natural resource). As a discipline it therefore combines hydrology, environmental science, meteorology, geology, conservation, and resource management. This area of civil engineering relates to the prediction and management of both the quality and the quantity of water in both underground (aquifers) and above ground (lakes, rivers, and streams) resources. Water resource engineers analyze and model very small to very large areas of the earth to predict the amount and content of water as it flows into, through, or out of a facility. Although the actual design of the facility may be left to other engineers.

Construction engineering

Construction engineering involves planning and execution of the designs from transportation, site development, hydraulic, environmental, structural and geotechnical engineers. As construction firms tend to have higher business risk than other types of civil engineering firms, many construction engineers tend to take on a role that is more business-like in nature: drafting and reviewing contracts, evaluating logistical operations, and closely-monitoring prices of necessary supplies.

Materials science

Civil engineering also includes elements of materials science. Construction materials with broad applications in civil engineering include ceramics such as Portland cement concrete (PCC) and hot mix asphalt concrete, metals such as aluminum and steel, and polymers such as polymethylaccrylate (PMMA) and carbon fibers. Current research in these areas focus around increased strength, durability, workability, and reduced cost.

Surveying

Surveying is the process by which a surveyor measures certain dimensions that generally occur on the surface of the Earth. Modern surveying equipment, such as EDM's, Total Stations, GPS Surveying and Laser Scanning, allow for remarkably accurate measurement of angular deviation, horizontal, vertical and slope distances. This information is crucial to convert the data into a graphical representation of the Earth's surface, in the form a map. This information is then used by Civil Engineers, Contractors and even realtors to design from, build on, and trade, respectively. Elements of a building or structure must be correctly sized and positioned in relation to each other and to site boundaries and adjacent structures. Civil engineers are trained in the methods of surveying and may seek Professional Land Surveyor status.

3. Why Get a Construction License?

The Construction Profession

Significant Points

Job opportunities are expected to be excellent for experienced workers.

Workers in construction have relatively high hourly earnings.

Almost 2 out of 3 establishments in the industry employ fewer than 5 people.

Construction has a very large number of self-employed workers.

Nature of the Industry

Houses, apartments, factories, offices, schools, roads, and bridges are only some of the products of the construction industry. This industry’s activities include the building of new structures as well as additions and modifications to existing ones. The industry also includes maintenance, repair, and improvements on these structures.

The construction industry is divided into three major segments. Construction of buildings contractors, or general contractors, build residential, industrial, commercial, and other buildings. Heavy and civil engineering construction contractors build sewers, roads, highways, bridges, tunnels, and other projects. Specialty trade contractors perform specialized activities related to construction such as carpentry, painting, plumbing, and electrical work.

Construction usually is done or coordinated by general contractors, who specialize in one type of construction such as residential or commercial building. They take full responsibility for the complete job, except for specified portions of the work that may be omitted from the general contract. Although general contractors may do a portion of the work with their own crews, they often subcontract most of the work to heavy construction or specialty trade contractors.

Specialty trade contractors usually do the work of only one trade, such as painting, carpentry, or electrical work, or of two or more closely related trades, such as plumbing and heating. Beyond fitting their work to that of the other trades, specialty trade contractors have no responsibility for the structure as a whole. They obtain orders for their work from general contractors, architects, or property owners. Repair work is almost always done on direct order from owners, occupants, architects, or rental agents.

Working Conditions

Most employees in this industry work full time, and many work over 40 hours a week. In 2004, about 1 in 5 construction workers worked 45 hours or more a week. Construction workers may sometimes work evenings, weekends, and holidays to finish a job or take care of an emergency. Construction workers who work outdoors, often must contend with the weather. Rain, snow, or wind may halt construction work, causing workers to go home or not report to work.

Workers in this industry need physical stamina because the work frequently requires prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and working in cramped quarters. They also may be required to lift and carry heavy objects. Exposure to weather is common because much of the work is done outside or in partially enclosed structures. Construction workers often work with potentially dangerous tools and equipment amidst a clutter of building materials; some work on temporary scaffolding or at great heights and in bad weather. Consequently, they are more prone to injuries than are workers in other jobs. In 2003, cases of work-related injury and illness were 6.8 per 100 full-time construction workers, which is significantly higher than the 5.0 rate for the entire private sector. Workers who are employed by foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors experienced the highest injury rates. In response, employers increasingly emphasize safe working conditions and work habits that reduce the risk of injuries. To avoid injury, employees wear safety clothing, such as gloves and hardhats, and devices to protect their eyes, mouth, or hearing, as needed.

Employment

Construction, with 7.0 million wage and salary jobs and 1.9 million self-employed and unpaid family workers in 2004, was one of the Nation’s largest industries. Almost 2 out of 3 wage and salary jobs in construction were with specialty trade contractors; primarily plumbing, heating, and air conditioning; electrical; and masonry contractors. Around 1 out of 4 jobs were with building contractors, mostly in residential and nonresidential construction. The rest were with heavy and civil engineering construction contractors (table 1). Employment in this industry is distributed geographically in much the same way as the Nation’s population.

There were about 818,000 construction establishments in the United States in 2004: 247,000 were building construction contractors; 57,000 were heavy and civil engineering construction or highway contractors; and 514,000 were specialty trade contractors. Most of these establishments tend to be small, the majority employing fewer than 5 workers (chart 1). About 1 out of 9 workers are employed by small contractors.

Construction offers more opportunities than most other industries for individuals who want to own and run their own business. The 1.9 million self-employed and unpaid family workers in 2004 performed work directly for property owners or acted as contractors on small jobs, such as additions, remodeling, and maintenance projects. The rate of self-employment varies greatly by individual occupation in the construction trades (chart 2).

Occupations in the Industry

Construction offers a great variety of career opportunities. People with many different talents and educational backgrounds—managers, clerical workers, engineers, truck drivers, trades workers, and construction helpers—find job opportunities in the construction industry (table 2).

Most of the workers in construction are construction trades workers, which include both skilled and apprentice craftsworkers, construction managers, and construction laborers. Most construction trades workers are classified as either structural, finishing, or mechanical workers, with some performing activities of more than one type. Structural workers build the main internal and external framework of a structure and can include carpenters; construction equipment operator; brickmasons, blockmasons, and stonemasons; cement masons and concrete finishers; and structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers. Finishing workers perform the tasks that give a structure its final appearance and may include carpenters; drywall and ceiling tile installers; plasterers and stucco masons; segmental pavers; terrazzo workers; painters and paperhangers; glaziers; roofers; carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers; and insulation workers. Mechanical workers install the equipment and material for basic building operations and may include pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters; electricians; sheet metal workers; and heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers.

Construction trades workers are employed in a large variety of occupations that are involved in all aspects of the construction industry. Boilermakers make, install, and repair boilers, vats, and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases. Brickmasons, blockmasons, and stonemasons build and repair walls, floors, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, and other structures with brick, precast masonry panels, concrete block, stone and other masonry materials. Carpenters construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood, such as framing walls and partitions, putting in doors and windows, building stairs, laying hardwood floors, and hanging kitchen cabinets. Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers lay floor coverings, apply tile and marble, and sand and finish wood floors in a variety of buildings. Cement masons, concrete finishers, segmental pavers, and terrazzo workers smooth and finish poured concrete surfaces and work with cement to create sidewalks, curbs, roadways, or other surfaces. Construction equipment operators use machinery that moves construction materials, earth, and other heavy materials and applies asphalt and concrete to roads and other structures. Drywall installers, ceiling installers and tapers fasten drywall panels to the inside framework of residential houses and other buildings and prepare these panels for painting by taping and finishing joints and imperfections. Electricians install, connect, test, and maintain building electrical systems, which also can include lighting, climate control, security, and communications. Glaziers are responsible for selecting, cutting, installing, replacing, and removing all types of glass. Insulation workers line and cover structures with insulating materials. Painters and paperhangers, stain, varnish, and apply other finishes to buildings and other structures and apply decorative coverings to walls and ceilings. Pipelayers, plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install, maintain, and repair many different types of pipe systems. They may also install heating and cooling equipment and mechanical control systems. Plasterers and stucco masons apply plaster, cement, stucco, and similar materials to interior and exterior walls and ceilings. Roofers repair and install roofs made of tar or asphalt and gravel; rubber or thermoplastic; metal; or shingles made of asphalt, slate, fiberglass, wood, tile, or other material. Sheet metal workers fabricate, assemble, install, and repair products and equipment made out of sheet metal, such as duct systems; roofs; siding; and drainpipes. Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers place and install iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or frameworks of buildings, bridges, and other structures. Lastly, construction laborers perform a wide range of physically demanding tasks at building and highway construction sites, such as tunnel and shaft excavation, hazardous waste removal, environmental remediation, and demolition. Many trades workers perform their services with the assistance of helpers. These people assist trades workers and perform duties of lesser skill.

The construction industry employs a number of other workers apart from the construction trades. Elevator installers and repairers assemble, install, and replace elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar equipment in new and old buildings. Heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers install systems that control the temperature, humidity, and the total air quality in residential, commercial, industrial, and other buildings. Material-moving occupations use machinery to move construction materials, earth, petroleum products, and other heavy materials or manually handle freight, stock, or other materials; clean vehicles, machinery, and other equipment; feed materials into or remove materials from machines or equipment; and pack or package products and materials.

First-line supervisors and managers of construction trades and extraction workers oversee trades workers and helpers and ensure that work is done well, safely, and according to code. They plan the job and solve problems as they arise. Those with good organizational skills and exceptional supervisory ability may advance to construction management occupations, including project manager, constructor, field manager, or superintendent. These workers are responsible for getting a project completed on schedule by working with the architect’s plans, making sure materials are delivered on time, assigning work, overseeing craft supervisors, and ensuring that every phase of the project is completed properly and expeditiously. They also resolve problems and see to it that work proceeds without interruptions.

The construction industry employs nearly all of the workers in some construction craft occupations. In other construction craft occupations, large numbers also work in other industries (table 3). Other industries employing large numbers of construction workers include transportation equipment manufacturing; transportation, communication, and utilities; real estate; wholesale and retail trade; educational services; and State and local government.

Training and Advancement

Persons can enter the construction industry through a variety of educational and training backgrounds. Those entering construction out of high school usually start as laborers, helpers, or apprentices. While, some laborers and helpers can learn their job in a few days, the skills required for many of the trades worker jobs take years to learn and are usually learned through some combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. In a few cases, skills can be learned entirely through informal on-the-job training, but the more education received, generally the more skilled workers become. Skilled workers such as carpenters, bricklayers, plumbers, and other construction trade specialists most often get their formal instruction by attending a local technical or trade school or through an apprenticeship, or other employer-provided training program. In addition, they learn their craft by working with more experienced workers. Most construction trades workers’ jobs require proficiency in reading and mathematics. Safety training is also required for most jobs and English skills are essential for workers to advance within their trade.

Laborers and helpers advance to the more skilled trades occupations by acquiring experience and skill in various phases of the craft. As they demonstrate their ability to perform tasks they are assigned, they move to progressively more challenging work. As they broaden their skills, they are allowed to work more independently, and responsibilities and earnings increase. They may qualify for jobs in related, more highly skilled occupations. For example, after several years of experience, painters’ helpers may become skilled painters.

Many persons enter the construction trades through apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships administered by local employers, trade associations, and trade unions provide the most thorough training. Apprenticeships usually last between 3 and 5 years and consist of on-the-job training and 144 hours or more of related classroom instruction each year. However, a number of apprenticeship programs are now using competency standards in place of time requirements, making it possible to complete a program in a shorter time. Those who enroll in apprenticeship programs usually are at least 18 years old and in good physical condition. Those who enter construction from technical or vocational schools also may go through apprenticeship training; however, they progress at a somewhat faster pace because they already have had courses such as mathematics, mechanical drawing, and woodworking.

To develop their skills further, construction trades workers can work on different projects, such as housing developments, office and industrial buildings, or road construction. Flexibility and a willingness to adopt new techniques, as well as the ability to get along with people, are essential for advancement. Those who are skilled in all facets of the trade and who show good leadership qualities may be promoted to supervisor or construction manager. Construction managers may advance to superintendent of larger projects or go into the business side of construction. Some go into business for themselves as contractors. Those who plan to rise to supervisory positions should have basic Spanish language skills to communicate basic safety and work instructions.

Outside of the construction industry, skilled trades workers may transfer to jobs such as construction building inspector, purchasing agent, sales representative for building supply companies, or technical or vocational school instructor. In order to advance to a management position, additional education and training is recommended.

Managerial personnel usually have a college degree or considerable experience in their specialty. Individuals who enter construction with college degrees usually start as management trainees or construction managers’ assistants. Those who receive degrees in construction science often start as field engineers, schedulers, or cost estimators. College graduates may advance to positions such as assistant manager, construction manager, general superintendent, cost estimator, construction building inspector, general manager or top executive, contractor, or consultant. Although a college education is not always required, administrative jobs usually are filled by people with degrees in business administration, finance, accounting, or similar fields.

Opportunities for workers to form their own firms are better in construction than in many other industries. Construction workers need only a moderate financial investment to become contractors and they can run their businesses from their homes, hiring additional construction workers only as needed for specific projects. The contract construction field, however, is very competitive, and the rate of business turnover is high. Taking courses in business helps to improve the likelihood of success.

Outlook

Job opportunities are expected to be excellent in the construction industry, especially for skilled trade workers, due to the large number of retirements of these workers anticipated over the next decade, as well as fewer people with the right education or experience entering the skilled trades.

The number of wage and salary jobs in the construction industry is expected to grow about 11 percent through the year 2014, compared with the 14 percent projected for all industries combined. Employment in this industry depends primarily on the level of construction and remodeling activity which is expected to increase over the coming decade.

Although household growth is expected to slow slightly over the coming decade, the increase will create demand for residential construction, especially in the fastest growing areas in the South and West. Rising numbers of immigrants, as well as the children of the baby boomers, will generate demand for homes and rental apartments. In addition, a desire for larger homes with more amenities will fuel demand for move-up homes, as well as the renovation and expansion of older homes. Townhouses and condominiums in conveniently located suburban and urban settings also are increasingly desired types of properties.

Employment is expected to grow faster in nonresidential construction over the decade. Replacement of many industrial plants has been delayed for years, and a large number of structures will have to be replaced or remodeled. Construction of nursing homes and other residential homes for the elderly, as well as all types of healthcare facilities, will be needed to meet the need for more medical treatment facilities, especially by the growing elderly population. Construction of schools will continue to be needed, especially in the South and West where the population is growing the fastest. In other areas, however, replacing and renovating older schools will create jobs.

Employment in heavy and civil engineering construction is projected to increase due to growth in new highway, bridge, and street construction, as well as in maintenance and repairs to prevent further deterioration of the Nation’s existing highways and bridges. Voters and legislators in most States and localities continue to approve spending on road construction, which will create jobs over the next decade.

Employment in specialty trades contracting, the largest segment of the industry, will grow the fastest as demand grows for subcontractors in building and heavy construction and as more workers are needed to repair and remodel existing homes, which specialty trade contractors are more likely to perform. Home improvement and repair construction is expected to continue to grow faster than new home construction. Remodeling should be the fastest growing sector of housing construction because of a growing stock of old residential and nonresidential buildings. Many older, smaller homes will be remodeled to appeal to more affluent, space- and amenity-hungry buyers. Remodeling tends to be more labor-intensive than new construction. In addition, the construction industry, as well as all types of businesses and institutions, are increasingly contracting out the services of specialty trades workers instead of keeping these workers on their own payrolls.

The number of job openings in construction may fluctuate from year to year. New construction is usually cut back during periods when the economy is not expanding or interest rates are high. However, it is rare that all segments of the construction industry are down at the same time, allowing workers to switch from building houses to working on office building construction, depending on demand.

Employment growth will differ among various occupations in the construction industry. Employment of construction managers is expected to grow as a result of the increasing complexity of construction work that needs to be managed, including the need to deal with the proliferation of laws dealing with building construction, worker safety, and environmental issues. Also, the growth of self-employment in this industry is leading to a larger number of managers that own small construction businesses. An especially favorable job outlook is expected for who have a bachelor’s degree in construction science, with an emphasis on construction management, and who related work experience in construction management services firms. Employment growth of administrative support occupations will be limited by increased office automation.

Although employment in construction trades as a whole is expected to grow about as fast as the industry average, the rate of growth will vary by trade. Employment of tile and marble setters; construction and building inspectors; and heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow faster than the industry average because their specialized services will be in greater demand. On the other hand, employment of carpet installers; construction laborers; floor sanders and finishers; insulation workers; paperhangers; plasters and stucco masons; and tapers are expected to grow more slowly than that of the construction industry as a whole because either their specialty is not as great demand or they are becoming more productive.

Earnings

Earnings in construction are higher than the average for all industries (table 4). In 2004, production or non supervisory workers in construction averaged $19.23 an hour, or about $736 a week. In general, the higher skilled trades workers, such as electricians and plumbers, get paid more than less skilled trades workers, laborers, and helpers. Earnings also vary by the worker’s education and experience, type of work, the complexity of the construction project, and geographic location. Earnings of construction workers are often affected when poor weather prevents them from working, because they usually do not get paid if they do not work. Traditionally, winter is the slack period for construction activity, especially in colder parts of the country, but there is a trend toward more year-round construction even in colder areas. Construction trades are dependent on one another to complete specific parts of a project—especially on large projects—so work delays in one trade completing it’s work can delay or stop the work of another trade. Earnings in 2004 of selected occupations in construction appear in table 5.

About 17 percent of construction trades workers were union members or covered by union contracts, compared with about 14 percent of workers throughout private industry. In general, union workers are paid more than nonunion workers and have better benefits. Many different unions represent the various construction trades and form joint apprenticeship committees with local employers to supervise apprenticeship programs.

Source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs003.htm

4. What is a Contractor?

Contractor

General Information

A person who executes the building or improving of the buildings.

A person or company that performs specific tasks like electrical or plumbing work in construction projects.

A person or company hired to maintain existing facilities like air conditioning systems, grounds keeping, etc.

Source: http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Contractor

5. How to Get a Texas Contractors License?

Contractors License Center

About Us

Construction Book Express, a leader in providing products for builders, designers and construction professionals since 1998, has developed this Contractors License Center especially for individuals preparing for their trade licensure exams.

We are dedicated to helping candidates pass their exam on the first try, offering all of the books and documents required by each state and licensure board, as well as titles that are recommended for gaining a more thorough understanding of the trades. You'll also find information on qualifications for exam registration, how to sign up, dates and locations, what books you will need, study tips, what types of questions to expect, length of exams, what to do after you pass, and much more!

Our seasoned experts and knowledgeable staff members work continuously to bring you the widest selection of titles from leading publishers, associations and organizations both nationally and internationally. The Customer Service team is on hand and available to assist you with new and existing orders, product recommendations and more, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST. You can also place an order online, by phone, fax or mail, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

With thousands of titles in stock and available for next day delivery or in-store pick up, you can count on Construction Book Express for the widest selection of exam-prep tools, study guides, building codes, standards, business forms, training videos and software available!

Texas State Testing

The state licensure board requires that individuals pass an exam in order to obtain certain trade certifications. Refer to the column to the left for a list of trade exams conducted by this state. Click on the trade license you wish to acquire for a list of mandatory and/or recommended books and documents you will need in preparation for the exam.

For Example:

Texas Home

Commercial Refrigeration Class A

Commercial Refrigeration Class B

Elevator Electrician

Environmental Air Class A

Environmental Air Class B

Jouneyman Electrician

Master Electrician

Journeyman Plumber

Master Plumber

Journeyman Sign Electrician

Master Sign Electrician

Maintenance Electrician

Residential Wire Electrician

Tradesman Plumber Limited

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Commercial Refrigeration Class A Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration                                 $101.95 

Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning                   $59.95 

Uniform Mechanical Code                                                        $89.95 

International Mechanical Code                                                  $72.95 

Pipefitters Handbook                                                                $26.95 

High Pressure Boilers                                                                $76.00 

Low Pressure Boilers                                                                $62.00 

OSHA CFR 1926 Construction Standards                   $69.95 

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 51      FREE

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Administrative Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 60                                                                         FREE   

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1302                                                                FREE

Texas Boiler Law, Health and Safety Act, Chapter 755             FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 75                                                    FREE

Texas Workers Compensation Act and Rules                            FREE

Texas Unemployment Compensation Act and Rules                  FREE

Circular E -Internal Revenue Service                                         FREE

Texas Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Business and Law Reference Manual, Kaplan 

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Commercial Refrigeration Class B Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book: Open Book:

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration                                 $101.95 

Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning                   $59.95 

Uniform Mechanical Code                                            $89.95 

International Mechanical Code                                                  $72.95 

Pipefitters Handbook                                                                $26.95 

High Pressure Boilers                                                                $76.00 

Low Pressure Boilers                                                                $62.00 

OSHA CFR 1926 Construction Standards                               $69.95 

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 51      FREE

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Administrative Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 60                                                                         FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1302      FREE - - 

Texas Boiler Law, Health and Safety Act, Chapter 755             FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 75                                                    FREE

Texas Workers Compensation Act and Rules                            FREE 

Texas Unemployment Compensation Act and Rules                  FREE 

Circular E -Internal Revenue Service                                         FREE  

Texas Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Business and Law Reference Manual, Kaplan      FREE

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Elevator Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

Recommended Book

National Electric Code 2005                                                     $72.95 

Exam-Prep Electrical, Question and Answer Learning Tool

$39.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical 3-Volume Set, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$95.85 

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Environmental Air Class A Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration                                 $101.95 

Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning                   $59.95 

Uniform Mechanical Code                                            $89.95 

International Mechanical Code                                                  $72.95 

Pipefitters Handbook                                                                $26.95 

High Pressure Boilers                                                                $76.00 

Low Pressure Boilers                                                                $62.00 

OSHA CFR 1926 Construction Standards                   $69.95 

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 51      FREE

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Administrative Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 60                                                                         FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1302                                                                FREE

Texas Boiler Law, Health and Safety Act, Chapter 755             FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 75                                                    FREE

Texas Workers Compensation Act and Rules                            FREE

Texas Unemployment Compensation Act and Rules                  FREE

Circular E -Internal Revenue Service                                         FREE

Texas Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Business and Law Reference Manual, Kaplan      FREE

Duct Wizard                                                                             $12.95 

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Environmental Air Class B Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration                                 $101.95 

Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning                   $59.95 

Uniform Mechanical Code                                            $89.95 

International Mechanical Code                                                  $72.95 

Pipefitters Handbook                                                                $26.95 

High Pressure Boilers                                                                $76.00 

Low Pressure Boilers                                                                $62.00 

OSHA CFR 1926 Construction Standards                   $69.95 

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 51      FREE

Texas Dept. of Licensing and Regulation Administrative Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 60                                                                         FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Law, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1302                                                                FREE

Texas Boiler Law, Health and Safety Act, Chapter 755             FREE

Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors License Rules, Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 75                                                    FREE

Texas Workers Compensation Act and Rules                            FREE

Texas Unemployment Compensation Act and Rules                  FREE 

Circular E -Internal Revenue Service                                         FREE

Texas Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Business and Law Reference Manual, Kaplan      FREE 

Duct Wizard                                                                             $12.95

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Journeyman Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended BookNational Electric Code 2005       $72.95 

Exam-Prep Electrical, Question and Answer Learning Tool  

$39.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical 3-Volume Set, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$95.85 

Journeyman General Mechanical Examination - Exam Study Guide     

$29.95 

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Master Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

Recommended BookNational Electric Code 2005        $72.95 

Exam-Prep Electrical, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$39.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical 3-Volume Set, Question and Answer Learning Tool    

$95.85 

THE ELECTRICIAN'S BOOK OF TRADE SECRETS, DR. WATTS     

$39.95 

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Journeyman Plumber Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

International Plumbing Code                                                     $64.95 

Uniform Plumbing Code, 2000                                                  $99.95 

Moving Water Through Pumps & Pipes for HPAC      $12.95

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Master Plumber Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

LPG Safety Rules                                                                     FREE

OSHA Code of Federal Regulations - Title 29, Part 1926     

$69.95 

Uniform Plumbing Code, 2000                                                  $99.95 

International Plumbing Code                                                     $64.95 

International Fuel Gas Code, 2000                                $59.95

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Jouneyman Sign Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

National Electric Code 2005                                                     $72.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical Sign, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$39.95 

THE ELECTRICIAN'S BOOK OF TRADE SECRETS, DR. WATTS     

$39.95

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Master Sign Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

National Electric Code 2005                                                     $72.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical Sign, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$39.95 

THE ELECTRICIAN'S BOOK OF TRADE SECRETS, DR. WATTS     

$39.95

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Maintenance Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended Book

National Electric Code 2005                                                     $72.95 

Exam-Prep Electrical, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$39.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical 3-Volume Set, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$95.85

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Residential Wire Electrician Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

Recommended Book:  

National Electric Code 2005                                                     $72.95 

Exam-Prep Electrical, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$39.95 

Exam - Prep Electrical 3-Volume Set, Question and Answer Learning Tool     

$95.85 

2005 Mastering the NEC - Residential Wiring Code VHS # 3     

$49.95 

2005 NEC - Residential Service Calculations VHS # 4             $49.95

Here is a list of the books and documents required by the Texas Construction Industry Licensing Board in preparation for and for the open book portions of the Texas Tradesman Plumber Limited Exam. Click on the books for a detailed description as well as pricing.

 Recommended BookInternational Plumbing Code        $64.95 

International Fuel Gas Code, 2000                                $59.95 

Uniform Plumbing Code, 2000                                                  $99.95 

Online Exam Test Prep Center FAQ's

1.) How do I know what books I need to prepare for my exam?

Our home page features a map of the United States. Click on the state in which you are taking your test. A page will appear listing the trade exams offered in that state. Once you click on your particular trade exam, you will see a list of the books and documents required by the licensure board for taking the exam, as well as books we recommend for further preparation. In some cases there is an open book portion of the exam. If so, we will indicate that is the case and what book is required.

2.) What if I don't see the books I need to prepare for my certification?

We are constantly striving to provide you with the materials you need to prepare for your exam. If you don't see what you need, call or email our customer service center. If your state is currently not featured, please enter your email address on the page that pops up and we will contact you as soon as the exam materials become available. Remember, we are working hard to gather information and materials so that we will soon cover every trade exam for all 50 U.S. states.

3.) Can I buy the whole set of exam prep books I need in one simple step?

Yes, we offer groups of books covering everything you need for your particular test at a discounted price. These "bundles" will appear when you choose your exam state and certification area. Simply click on the package you want and add it to your shopping cart.

4.) How do I apply to take my exam?

Refer to the "5 Steps to Obtaining Your License" icon appearing on each particular exam page of this site. You will find all the information you need to register and prepare for your exam.

5.) Are there any special instructions for persons with disabilities taking exams?

Exam centers are required by law to provide access in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, and every reasonable accommodation should be made to meet a candidate's needs. Applicants with disabilities or those who would otherwise have difficulty taking the exam should contact their individual test-taking center to make arrangements. In some cases, requests for special accommodations must be in writing, describing the specific accommodations that will be needed, and in specific cases requests must include supporting documentation from a licensed professional. Be sure to make any necessary special testing arrangements at the time you register for the exam.

6.) Does Construction Book Express offer any additional test taking advice?

Yes, Construction Book Express has a section called "Study Tips" that we encourage all students to visit. A "Study Tips" icon linking you to that section appears at the top of each page of this site. You can find even more detailed information about each particular exam in our "5 Steps to Obtaining Your License" section discussed above.

7.) What kinds of materials am I permitted to bring to the exam?

Each state has specific rules and regulations pertaining to what materials may be brought to the exam. Textbooks, dictionaries, calculators, etc. are all subject to the rules enforced by the licensure board of each state. Visit our "5 Steps to Obtaining Your License" section for full details.

8.) Where can I get more information about my specific exam?

Construction Book Express is a wonderful source of information and products for preparing for your trade exam. If you have further questions, refer to the website or call center of your state's licensure board.

Source: http://www.constructionbook.com/contractor-license/index.asp