The NASCLA is an abbreviation of the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies. Passing the NASCLA exam allows contractors to work across multiple states rather than solely where they were originally registered. These states include:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Georgia
• Louisiana
• Mississippi
• Nevada
• North Carolina
• Oregon
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Utah
• Virginia

If your business needs to work across multiple jurisdictions, it is worth looking into getting NASCLA accredited. To do this, you will need to pass the exam. There are numerous NASCLA exam prep resources out there, and it can get a little overwhelming. To help with this, we have gathered some top tips to guide you through the process. By the end, you will be all but ready to sit your exam!

1. Make Sure You Have Completed Pre-Registration

Like many other exams, the NASCLA exam requires pre-registration. Sure, studying is an integral part of exam success, but you need to make sure you are actually signed up first. The last thing you want to do is spend months revising exam content only to find you aren’t eligible to sit it.
You can file for an exam request via the official NASCLA website. If granted, you are given a year-long window in which you can sit the exam a maximum of three times. This is another reason why preparation is so important. You only have three chances in a year, so use them well!

2. Commit to a Routine

There are numerous ways to study. Whether it’s with flashcards or reviewing textbooks, it might take some time to find your favorite strategy. This is especially true if you haven’t studied in a while.
No matter which tactic you push ahead with, consistency is everything. Make a schedule for yourself and fit it in around your daily life. It may seem inconvenient at first, but you will yield far higher rewards if you put the work in. Just think, if you pass the exam the first time, you never need to look at a textbook again.

3. Look at Past Papers

One of the best resources available to you before the exam is past papers. These will give you direct insight into what you can expect when you sit the exam yourself. Of course, you won’t get to see the actual questions you will need to answer, but you can familiarize yourself with the format. This kind of preparation is invaluable.
It could also be valuable to talk to people who have previously sat the exam, if at all possible. Posting on forums or networking with other NASCLA-certified contractors could prove highly beneficial, both for your education and your professional future.

4. Don’t Exhaust Yourself

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, don’t exhaust yourself. Trying to balance work, your personal life, and exam preparation can prove tiring. While it is important that you put the work in, nothing will ruin your chances faster than burnout.
Try to stick to a study schedule, but take breaks where you can. Drink lots of water, eat properly, and get plenty of sleep. The exam is important, but it isn’t as important as your well-being!

Preparation is Key

If you plan to take your business to numerous states, getting NASCLA certified is imperative. While the exam can prove challenging, the rewards are worth it.
With the right preparation and diligence, you can take your business to the next level. For further information, consult the NASCLA website directly or email them via their contact information. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have.