Contractor Exam Code Book Tabbing Guide

Rules first — before you tab anything

• Read your candidate bulletin and testing center policy on tabs, highlights, and sticky notes
• Some centers allow only specific tab types; others prohibit any marks in books
• Use the exact book editions listed — tabs on the wrong edition will not match exam content
• Practice with the same books you plan to bring on exam day

General tabbing principles

1. Know your index and table of contents — not just individual sections
2. Keep tabs manageable — too many tabs can slow you down
3. Use a consistent system — color or label scheme you can remember under pressure
4. Practice lookups — drill the sections you miss most often in practice
5. Adjust based on drills — move or add tabs where lookups are slow

Sections contractors often tab (when allowed)

These are common starting points — your bulletin and practice misses should drive your final tab map.

IBC / IRC

• Occupancy classification
• Means of egress
• Fire-resistance ratings and assemblies
• Foundation and footing tables

NEC (NFPA 70)

• Wire sizing and ampacity tables
• Grounding and bonding
• Service calculations

Business & Law / NASCLA guide

• Lien law and notice deadlines (state-specific)
• Contract types and change orders
• Insurance and bonding requirements
• Workers' compensation and payroll

OSHA 29 CFR 1926

• Subpart M — fall protection
• Subpart P — excavations
• Subpart L — scaffolds

Printable tabbing worksheet

For a general printable worksheet covering common code book sections, see our partner site. Verify every tab against your bulletin — the worksheet is a template, not an official exam document.

Code book tabbing worksheet →