Building Plans Examiner (B3) Practice Exam
A Building Plans Examiner has the skills and abilities for reviewing submitted plans to find out if they meet the requirements of the various Building Codes and Standards that have been adopted by his / her jurisdiction. At this level of certification, the Examiner must be familiar with analyzing and reviewing plans for any size of structure in any occupancy classification.
Who should take the exam?
The Building Plans Examiner (B3) exam is relevant for several professionals working in the construction industry. The suitable audience include:
- Building inspectors
- Architects and engineers
- Construction managers and contractors
- Building department personnel
- Educators and trainers
- Individuals seeking career advancement
Exam Details of Building Plans Examiner (B3)
- Exam Code: B3
- Exam Name: Building Plans Examiner
- Exam Languages: English
- Time Duration: 3-1/2-hour limit
- Exam Questions: 80 Questions
- Exam Type: Open Book
Building Plans Examiner (B3) Exam Course Outline
The Exam covers the given topics -
Topic 1: Understand the basics of General Administration 5%
- Project Administration
- Public Information and Legal
Topic 2: Learn about Building Planning 21%
- Building Location
- Allowable Increases
- Use and Occupancy Classification
- Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy
- Type of Construction
- Height and Area Design
- Exterior Walls and Openings
- Interior Environment
- Safeguards During Construction
- Accessibility
- Materials Specifications
Topic 3: Understand Footings and Foundations 8%
- Footing and Foundations
- Stepped Footings and Special Foundations
- Foundation Walls
Topic 4: Learn about Floor Construction 4%
- Floor Systems
- Concrete Slabs and Floor Systems
Topic 5: Explore Wall Construction and Coverings 12%
- Wood Wall Systems
- Steel Framing Systems
- Masonry Wall Systems
- Concrete Wall Systems
- Exterior Wall Coverings
- Interior Wall Coverings
Topic 6: Understand Roof/Ceiling Construction 4%
- Roof/Ceiling Assemblies
- Roof Coverings
Topic 7: Learn about Public Safety and Special Construction 46%
- Means of Egress
- Number, Width, and Arrangements of Exits
- Exit Stairways and Ramps
- Exit Doors and Egress Windows
- Protected Exitways
- Special Exiting
- Fire Alarm and Extinguishing Systems
- Area and Occupancy Separations
- Fire-Resistive Construction
- Heat and Smoke
- Interior Finishes
- Safety Glazing
- Opening Protectives, Penetrations, and Joint Systems
- Miscellaneous Construction
- Building Services and Special Construction
- Fireplaces and Chimneys