Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

We offer answers to some frequently asked questions about our courses and the Minnesota Contractor Exam.

Questions About Sterling Professional Education

Our courses are approved by the Department of Labor and Industry. And some will be approved by the Chamber of Commerce for Real Estate, depending on the class.

Class locations are specific to each class.

We report credits within three business days.

1. Sign up for the course. We will need your qualifying builder number.
2. Take the class. During the course, we will have multiple times when we verify attendance.
3. We will send the attendance information to the Department of Labor and the Department of Commerce electronically after the class is done.
4. Within a couple of days, your record will reflect your credits.
5. Remember these courses are government regulated and all rules will be followed so you are assured of getting your CE credits.

There are no educational or experience requirements to take the residential building contractor exam. The exam is offered at DLI’s offices in St. Paul and sites in Duluth, St. Cloud, Detroit Lakes, Granite Falls, and Owatonna. You can apply online.

You must first apply to take the exam. Once approved register for the exam. Your chances of getting the date and location of your choice increase the further in advance you register. It is best to test within five days of completing your classroom training. This will ensure the material is fresh in your mind.

The contractor exam is multiple-choice. It contains 110 questions: 40 questions on business and law and 60 on residential code.

To pass, you must have an overall score of 70 percent.

• Two forms of identification, one of which must be a driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or military ID.
• The confirmation number that was provided when you applied to take the exam.

• Scratch paper (an erasable tablet will be provided)
• Note-taking of any kind
• Talking or smoking
• Electronic devices must be turned off during the exam
• Proctors will not answer questions concerning exam content, so do not ask
• Your own copy of the IRC book. The exam is open book, so you will be provided with a copy of the MN code book and a MN statues book at the testing center.

Once you have passed your Minnesota Contractor Exam, you can apply for a contractor license. We have compiled a list of five steps to take here.

Obtaining Your Contractor’s License

If you are new to the industry, you may have general questions about obtaining the correct licensing to start your business. We have compiled these simple instructions to help you get started.

Upcoming Contractor Courses

Online registration is now open for in-person general contractor license exam prep and contractor continuing education courses in Minnesota.

You Can Pass Your MN Contractor Exam

Our two day in-person course designed to help you pass your MN Contract Exam on the first attempt. Register online today or call 763-760-9526 for more details about our courses.