General Contractor License Exam Prep & Business Training

America’s trusted path to becoming a licensed, confident, and profitable General Contractor — combining state exam preparation with real-world business skills and expert instruction.

Combining exam preparation with real-world business execution.

Course In-Person:
Class C Residential GC
- Colorado Only -

Get licensed and build real-world skills with hands-on training. This 4-week intensive program prepares you to pass the Class C exam and operate as a professional contractor.

Course Online Version:
Class C Residential GC
- Nationwide -

Flexible online training with live instruction. Perfect for busy professionals who want to pass the exam and start their contracting business faster.

GC 101:
Business Blueprint
- Colorado Only -

Learn how to run a profitable contracting business. Avoid costly mistakes, underpricing, and client issues with a proven system used by successful contractors.

Education

Contractors of America provides hands-on, industry-led education for trade professionals and general contractors ready to level up.

Our programs include ICC G13 Exam Prep to help contractors get licensed with confidence, and GC101, a 4-week intensive for turning field experience into a professional, scalable contracting business.
We’re on a mission to professionalize the trades in the United States through practical, real-world training led by industry experts.

Residential GC Education Programs

Choose the learning format that fits your schedule. Both programs are built to help you prepare for the Class C Residential GC exam with expert instruction, guided strategy, and practical support.

In-Person
$ 2,499

Residential GC Exam Prep - ICC G13

A hands-on monthly program designed for contractors of America who want live classroom instruction and a stronger exam-prep experience.

  • Schedule: Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Mountain Time for 4 weeks (16 hours total)
  • Location: 9044 Forsstrom Dr, Lone Tree, CO 80124
  • Includes IRC Book + exam-approved Tab Kit
  • Expert-led strategy, mock practice exams, quizzes, and classroom portal access
  • 1-on-1 office hours available with expert instructor

100% Online
$ 1,999

Residential GC Exam Prep Online Version - ICC G13

A flexible online format with live instruction for busy professionals who want structure, accountability, and convenience.

  • Schedule: Wednesdays 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Mountain Time and Fridays 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Mountain Time for 4 weeks
  • 100% online with live instruction
  • Includes IRC Book + exam-approved Tab Kit
  • Portal tracker, mock practice exams, quizzes, and guided progress support
  • 1-on-1 office hours available as needed with instructor
GC 101
In-Person • 4-Week Intensive
$1,999

GC 101: The Blueprint for a Successful General Contracting Business

A practical 4-week business training for contractors of Colorado ready to stop learning through costly trial-and-error and start building a professional, profitable operation.

April 4, 11, 18 & 25
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Lone Tree, CO
Client Relations
Estimating
Blueprint Reading
Permitting
Risk Management
Growth Marketing
General contractor reviewing blueprints on a framed home
Contractor walking through a residential interior
16 Hours
Business Training

ABOUT THE COURSE

Over 16 hours of in-person training, we strip away the fluff to focus on the essential pillars of a profitable career:

Client Relations & Professional Presence

Master the intake and win the right jobs.

Defensible Estimating

Build bids that protect your margins.

Blueprint Reading & Permitting

Navigate plans and the building department with absolute confidence.

Risk Management

Understanding insurance and liability before it’s too late.

Growth Marketing

How to build a digital marketing engine that works.

FINAL — Business Implementation Blueprint

How the five core pillars integrate into a single, professional general contracting operation.

Who Are the Best Points of Contact for These Programs?

You can always email us at Contact@contractorsofamerica.org. But for streamlined communication, please connect with our team below.

Before the Course Begins

Andrew Laverenz
Founder

Once the Course Is Underway

Alex Nelson
Prep Course Instructor

Frequently Asked Questions

We know navigating licensing requirements can be overwhelming—but that’s exactly why we’re here. Our goal is to simplify the process and give you everything you need to pass with confidence.

  • Alex Nelson is the instructor of Contractors of America’s online education platform and the architect behind our virtual contractor training programs. 

  • At this time, we do not offer formal financing options. To enroll in the program, please visit our secure payment portal to make payment. All GC License Exam Prep programs include the cost of the code book & tab kit. 

    100% Online GC Licence Exam Prep $1999 

    In-Person GC License Exam Prep: $2499

    In-Person GC101: $1999

    All sales are final. Under agreed circumstances, we can extend a 50% down payment to begin the class, with the balance due during Week 2 of the program. We accept credit cards, ACH, cash or check. 

Yes. We make sure you have the exact edition of the code book required for your exam.

Here’s why that matters: sometimes the licensing exams are still based on an earlier edition of the code, even though newer versions are being used out in the field. If you walk into the exam with the wrong book, it can throw you off.

Our program is designed to remove that risk. We’ll provide the correct, exam-approved code book so you can focus on studying and passing, without worrying about whether you bought the wrong edition.

We strongly recommend attending each session, since they build on the previous material and are critical to your success in the program.

That said, we understand that life happens. If a scheduling conflict arises, please notify the instructor 48 hour advance so we can help you stay on track and get the most value from the program.

Please note that enrollment is final. All sales are final, and no refunds will be issued for missed or unattended sessions, regardless of reason.

Many local code enforcement follows the 2021 or 2024 ICC code, but the path to becoming a licensed General Contractor, the ICC still runs through the 2018 IRC (Exam G13). (National Standard Building Contractor “Class C” ICC G13)

We provide you with the 2018 codebook and targeted training because that is exactly what you will see on the real exam.

Don't let the version gap worry you: the 2018 and 2021 codes are nearly identical in their structural and residential foundations. By training with us, you are preparing to pass the real exam on the first try while gaining the fundamental skills required for current building standards.

Generally, yes. But some justifications do not require it. Sorry, we know that’s confusing, but every building department has its own requirements about documented experience before issuing a license. Reach out to the building department and confirm. 

For the Residential Contractor license, you’ll typically need at least 2 years of hands-on residential contracting experience that other general contractors will sign off on. This can include direct project management, trade work, and verifiable residential contracting work history. 

For the Commercial Contractor license, the bar is higher. You’ll generally need a minimum of four years of verifiable experience on commercial job sites, specifically in a management role. In most cases, applicants are already working as superintendents or project managers for larger general contractors before they qualify to apply.

Not at this time. We only offer exam prep for the National Standard Building Contractor ICC G13. This would be for residential general contracting work. 

ICC = International Code Council

For general contractors in ICC-adopting states, the International Code Council (ICC) is the organization that writes the building codes your projects are inspected against. What that means for you:

  • Many states and counties adopt ICC “I-Codes” as the baseline for construction.
  • Cities and counties may amend them, but they’re still ICC-based.
  • Common codes you’ll see:
    • IRC – Residential (1–2 family homes)
    • IBC – Commercial & multifamily
    • IECC – Energy
    • IFC / IPC / IMC – Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical
  • Contractor and ICC exams are typically open-book.

Bottom line: If you pull permits or pass inspections in these states, you’re working under ICC codes, whether you know it or not.

We will monitor the payment portal and follow up with you to confirm your enrollment.

For online classes, please confirm your mailing address so we can ship your code book directly to your home.  Programs run monthly, and we require at least 5-7 days between payment and the start of class to ensure your code book arrives on time. If payment is submitted the day or two before a program begins, we are unable to guarantee timely delivery of materials.

For in-person programs, please confirm your payment with our team. Your book will be here for you in our Lone Tree, CO office for the start of class. 

As a best practice, please email andrew@powderblue-camel-173500.hostingersite.com or call/text (720)422-4600 with any questions and streamlined confirmation. 

Our 100% Online Exam Prep is a live-instruction program that runs for (4) consecutive weeks, with a structured deep dive into the IRC book, focused on real-world application, test strategy, and code comprehension. These classes run every month, so depending on the time of enrollment, we’ll work with you to get into the appropriate cohort. 

Live Online Class Schedule

  • Wednesdays: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Mountain Time
  • Fridays: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Mountain Time

Program Includes

  • 100% online classes with live expert instruction
  • IRC Code Book plus exam-approved tab kit (mailed to you)
  • Proven exam strategy and navigation techniques
  • Classroom portal with mock exams, quizzes, and progress tracking
  • 1-on-1 office hours with the instructor, as needed

Each session includes guided instruction, dedicated analysis of the code book, practical examples, and open Q&A.

Classes meet for four (4) consecutive Saturdays at our Lone Tree office. Class size is limited to 10–20 students to encourage engagement and discussion. Our facility features a large video wall for clear viewing and interactive participation throughout the program. Please plan to arrive by 7:45 AM Mountain Time for each session. Free on-site parking is available.

Location: 9044 Forsstrom Dr Lone Tree, CO 80124

Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Mountain Time

What’s Included:

  • IRC Code Book with exam-approved tab kit
  • Expert-led instruction with a proven test-taking strategy
  • Classroom portal with progress tracking, mock exams, and quizzes
  • One-on-one office hours with the instructor, as needed

In short: No. To be direct, any organization offering a "guaranteed pass" isn't being honest with you. At the end of the day, you are the one who has to sit for the exam and perform.

However, our track record speaks for itself. We have helped hundreds of students successfully navigate the ICC exam. We are confident that if you commit to the process and put in the work, you will have a very high likelihood of passing on your first attempt.

What it takes to succeed: This course is an intensive preparation tool, but passing requires more than just showing up. Success in this program depends on:

  • Self-Study: Consistent review of materials outside of our class sessions.
  • Discipline: Following the study frameworks we provide.
  • Engagement: Actively participating in workshops and asking questions.

Our goal is to give you every tool, tip, and strategy necessary to walk into that testing center with absolute confidence.

The first step is to prepare for and pass the National Standard Residential Building Contractor Exam (ICC G13), administered through Pearson VUE. Our exam prep program is designed to fully prepare you with structured instruction, in-depth textbook coverage, and realistic practice exams that mirror the actual test.

Once you complete the course, you’ll schedule and take the official exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you.

In many states, general contractor licensing is handled at the local (city or county) level, not by the state. Because of this, licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction. Some building departments require multiple years of documented construction experience and letters of recommendation from licensed general contractors you’ve worked under, while others do not. Most jurisdictions will also require proof of insurance, basic business documentation, and additional application materials.

We are committed to helping students navigate licensing requirements by providing accurate information and study support. 

However, issuance of recommendations or work verification documents falls outside the scope of this course unless a formal working relationship exists. 

Students are encouraged to seek such documents from past employers who can verify their work history, aligning with licensing integrity requirements. 

The GC License Exam Prep Class is a highly focused, exam-driven program designed specifically to help you pass the ICC General Contractor exam. It teaches proven test-taking strategies, code navigation, and exam-specific concepts so you can confidently earn the credential required to pursue licensure.

The GC101 Program, offered by Contractors of Colorado, is a 4-week intensive designed to help you skip the learning curve and step into the role of a high-value General Contractor.

This is not a passive lecture series. GC101 is a hands-on, practical workshop built for experienced tradespeople who are ready to transition from working for a paycheck to running a professional general contracting business. In short:

  • Exam Prep helped gets you licensed
  • GC101 teaches you how to operate, protect, and grow a real general contracting business

GC101 is a 4-week, in-person-only, intensive program designed to help trade professionals transition from "working for a paycheck" to running a high-value, professional general contracting operation.

Instead of learning through expensive trial-and-error, such as underquoted jobs and client disputes, GC101 provides a practical "blueprint" for business success. Led by Matthew Pennington, a veteran contractor and inspector with over 20 years of experience, the program consists of 16 hours of in-person training focused on five essential pillars:

  • Client Relations & Professional Presence: Master the intake process to win the right jobs.
  • Defensible Estimating: Build bids that protect your profit margins and prevent "scope creep."
  • Blueprint Reading & Permitting: Navigate technical plans and building departments with confidence.
  • Risk Management: Understand insurance and liability to protect your business before issues arise.
  • Growth Marketing: Build a digital marketing engine that consistently generates leads.

GC101 is not a passive lecture; it is a high-impact workshop designed to strip away the fluff and give you the hard-earned business intelligence needed to build a sustainable, profitable career.

Colorado does NOT have a statewide general contractor license. 

Licenses are issued by cities and counties, so details can vary slightly by jurisdiction. That said, most local governments use the same Class A / B / C framework.

Class A General Contractor - The highest level.

  • Can work on any size and type of building
  • Includes commercial, multi-family, industrial, and residential
  • Typically no height or occupancy limits
  • Does not include electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work (those require separate licenses)

Best for: Large commercial projects, high-rise, institutional, or mixed-use work.

Class B General Contractor -  Mid-level license with some limits.

  • Allows most residential and commercial construction
  • Often restricted from very large or complex structures
  • May have limits on building height or construction type
  • Specialty trades still require separate licenses

Best for: Small-to-mid commercial buildings, standard multi-family, residential developments.

Class C General Contractor - Residential-focused and limited in scope.

  • Typically limited to single-family homes and small residential buildings
  • Often capped at 3 stories and a small number of units
  • No commercial or large multi-family work allowed

Best for: Home builders, remodelers, and small residential contractors.

Nuestros cursos de preparación para el examen se imparten en inglés, ya que los exámenes de contratista del ICC se administran principalmente en inglés. Sin embargo, el International Code Council (ICC) ofrece algunos exámenes en español, dependiendo de la jurisdicción y el tipo de examen. Para verificar si el examen de Contratista ICC G12 o ICC G13 está disponible en español, recomendamos consultar directamente con ICC o Pearson VUE, el proveedor oficial de los exámenes. Si necesita apoyo en español, algunas jurisdicciones pueden permitir el uso de un intérprete, pero esto requiere aprobación previa.

READY TO Secure your seat?

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