Arizona Masonry Residential / Commercial Contractor (CR-31) Exam - Online Exam Prep

The Arizona Masonry Residential / Commercial Contractor (CR-31) Exam - Online Exam Prep course is designed for candidates preparing for the Arizona dual residential and commercial masonry contractor trade exam. This online course helps students study the major knowledge areas connected to unit masonry, mortar, grout, accessories, specialties, tools, restoration, cleaning, estimating, plan reading, masonry code requirements, and OSHA construction safety.

The Arizona CR-31 Masonry classification is a dual residential / commercial contractor classification for masonry work. This classification is important for contractors who plan to perform masonry work in both residential and commercial settings. Candidates preparing for the exam should be ready to review practical masonry installation methods, masonry materials, construction safety, code-based requirements, restoration awareness, and the approved references used during the open book test.

Masonry work requires accuracy, strength, layout skill, material knowledge, and an understanding of how individual units work together as a complete assembly. A masonry contractor may work with brick, block, stone, mortar, grout, reinforcement, accessories, flashing, anchors, lintels, openings, veneers, structural walls, and related masonry systems. Because masonry construction affects both appearance and performance, candidates should prepare for questions that test both technical knowledge and practical jobsite decision-making.

This online exam prep course gives candidates a structured way to prepare for the Arizona CR-31 Masonry exam without trying to organize the entire study process alone. The exam is open book, which means students should prepare in two important ways: by learning the masonry trade material and by becoming familiar with the approved references used during testing. Strong preparation includes reviewing the official content outline, studying the listed references, understanding how the code books and masonry books are organized, and practicing how to locate information efficiently during a timed exam.

The Arizona Masonry Residential / Commercial Contractor (CR-31) Exam - Online Exam Prep course is a strong fit for qualifying parties, masonry contractors, block masons, brick masons, stone masons, restoration professionals, construction supervisors, project managers, business owners, and experienced tradespeople preparing for Arizona contractor licensing. The course helps students review the exam subjects, connect those subjects to the listed references, and approach the test with a more organized preparation routine.

Exam Details

The Arizona CR-31 Masonry residential / commercial contractor exam is administered through PSI for the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. The trade exam contains 60 questions, and candidates are allowed 150 minutes to complete the test. The minimum passing score is 70%.

The official content outline includes Estimating and Plan Reading, Unit Masonry, Mortar and Grout, Accessories and Specialties, Tools, Restoration and Cleaning, and Safety. Estimating and Plan Reading includes 5 items. Unit Masonry includes 18 items. Mortar and Grout includes 13 items. Accessories and Specialties includes 10 items. Tools includes 5 items. Restoration and Cleaning includes 3 items. Safety includes 6 items.

Unit Masonry is the largest section of the exam. Candidates should give this area significant study time because it may include brick, block, stone, layout, bond patterns, wall construction, openings, alignment, coursing, installation methods, workmanship, and the relationship between masonry units and surrounding construction. A strong understanding of unit masonry helps students answer both field-based questions and code-supported questions.

Mortar and Grout is also a major section. Candidates should study mortar types, grout placement, mixing awareness, joint construction, reinforcement support, bond, consistency, curing awareness, and quality considerations. Mortar and grout affect the strength, durability, appearance, and performance of masonry assemblies, so this topic is central to masonry exam preparation.

Accessories and Specialties may include flashing, weeps, anchors, ties, reinforcement, control joints, expansion joints, lintels, embedded items, and other components that support complete masonry systems. Estimating and Plan Reading may involve interpreting project information, measuring quantities, understanding masonry dimensions, and calculating materials. Tools, Restoration and Cleaning, and Safety are smaller categories, but each can affect the final score because the exam contains 60 questions.

Open Book Test

The Arizona CR-31 Masonry exam is an open book test. Candidates are responsible for bringing their own approved references to the examination center. Approved reference materials may be highlighted, underlined, annotated, and indexed before the exam session begins. Candidates may not write, highlight, underline, or index inside the references during the examination session.

Reference books may be tabbed or indexed with permanent tabs only. Permanent tabs are tabs that would tear the page if removed. Temporary tabs, removable sticky notes, and other removable tabs are not allowed and must be removed before the exam begins. Candidates may not bring loose papers or attached papers with the approved references.

If a candidate uses a permitted reference downloaded from the internet, the material must be bound before being brought into the testing center. A bound reference may be spiral bound or hole-punched and placed in a binder when allowed by the exam instructions. Candidates may use a silent, nonprinting, non-programmable calculator in the examination center.

The approved references allowed in the exam room are Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA), International Building Code, International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, ACI 530/530.1-13, and Modern Masonry – Brick, Block, Stone. Candidates should use these books during preparation, become familiar with their organization, and bring only compliant reference materials into the testing center.

Open book testing rewards students who study with the references before the exam. Simply bringing the books into the testing center is not enough. Candidates should know where masonry code provisions are located, where OSHA safety rules are found, where masonry methods and tools are explained, and how the exam subjects connect to the approved references. This online exam prep course supports that process by helping students build stronger topic awareness and reference familiarity.

Licensing Steps

Arizona contractor licensing is handled by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. A candidate pursuing the Arizona Masonry Residential / Commercial Contractor (CR-31) license should begin by confirming that the CR-31 dual classification matches the type of masonry work the business intends to perform. The qualifying party must complete the examination requirements connected to the license classification.

Many Arizona contractor license applicants must complete the applicable trade exam and the Arizona Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam. The trade exam measures masonry and construction knowledge for the license classification, while the statutes and rules requirement covers Arizona contractor law and regulatory responsibilities. Candidates should follow the Arizona Registrar of Contractors application process for the business structure, qualifying party, experience, bonding, and supporting documents that apply to the license being pursued.

A practical preparation path begins with identifying the correct classification, reviewing the official exam content outline, gathering the approved reference books, and setting a realistic study schedule. After preparation, the candidate schedules the trade exam through PSI and follows testing center rules for identification, reference materials, calculators, personal items, and exam-room conduct.

After the required examination steps are completed, the applicant continues through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors licensing process. This may include submitting the license application, identifying the qualifying party, providing required business information, meeting bonding requirements, and satisfying other state requirements connected to the applicant and classification.

State Requirements

The Arizona CR-31 Masonry classification allows the scopes of work permitted by both the commercial C-31 Masonry and residential R-31 Masonry classifications. This dual classification is intended for contractors who perform masonry work in both residential and commercial settings.

Masonry work may include brick, concrete block, stone, clay units, glass block, mortar, grout, reinforcement, related masonry accessories, and other masonry construction components within the allowed classification scope. Candidates should understand the practical tasks connected to masonry work, including layout, estimating, unit placement, joint work, reinforcement coordination, flashing, cleaning, repair, restoration, and jobsite safety.

Arizona issues separate contractor license classifications for commercial work, residential work, and dual residential/commercial work. The CR-31 classification is the dual residential / commercial masonry contractor classification. Applicants should make sure the classification fits the type of contracting work they plan to offer before moving forward with exam preparation and licensing paperwork.

Masonry construction can affect structural performance, weather resistance, fire resistance, appearance, durability, and long-term building quality. Poor layout, incorrect mortar use, weak reinforcement placement, missing flashing, improper cleaning, or unsafe work practices can create serious problems. Exam preparation should reflect this responsibility by reviewing masonry materials, code requirements, installation practices, restoration methods, estimating, tools, and OSHA safety.

Reference Books

• Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  This construction safety reference supports study of OSHA standards used on residential and commercial masonry jobsites, including safety rules related to scaffolds, ladders, fall protection, personal protective equipment, tools, equipment, material handling, silica exposure awareness, excavation hazards, and general hazard recognition.
• International Building Code (IBC), 2018
  This code reference supports study of commercial building code requirements, including masonry-related provisions, structural concepts, fire-resistance awareness, building materials, wall systems, openings, and general code organization.
• International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (IRC), 2018
  This code reference supports study of residential building requirements, including masonry-related provisions, foundations, walls, veneers, chimneys, fireplaces, openings, safety provisions, and residential code organization.
• ACI 530/530.1-13 – Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures and Companion Commentaries
  This masonry code reference supports study of masonry design and construction requirements, specifications, materials, quality assurance, reinforcement, grout, mortar, structural masonry provisions, and companion commentary for masonry structures.
• Modern Masonry – Brick, Block, Stone, Clois E. Kicklighter, 10th Edition
  This masonry trade reference supports study of brick, block, stone, mortar, grout, tools, layout, wall construction, bonds, flashing, reinforcement awareness, cleaning, restoration, and masonry workmanship.

Exam Room Approved Books

• Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  Approved for use in the exam room as the construction safety reference for OSHA-related exam topics.
• International Building Code (IBC), 2018
  Approved for use in the exam room as a commercial building code reference for masonry-related code questions and general building requirements.
• International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (IRC), 2018
  Approved for use in the exam room as the residential building code reference for residential masonry and building code questions.
• ACI 530/530.1-13 – Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures and Companion Commentaries
  Approved for use in the exam room as the masonry code and specification reference for masonry structures, materials, grout, mortar, reinforcement, and quality requirements.
• Modern Masonry – Brick, Block, Stone, Clois E. Kicklighter, 10th Edition
  Approved for use in the exam room as the masonry trade reference for brick, block, stone, tools, layout, construction methods, cleaning, restoration, and workmanship topics.

Test Information and Study Materials

The Arizona CR-31 Masonry exam covers several connected masonry subjects, so students should use a balanced study routine. A strong plan includes reading key reference sections, learning the structure of the code books, reviewing trade concepts, building approved permanent tabs, and practicing with exam-style questions. Since the exam is open book and timed, candidates should prepare to locate information quickly and answer questions efficiently.

Estimating and Plan Reading preparation should include reviewing masonry drawings, identifying wall dimensions, understanding openings, calculating masonry units, estimating mortar and grout needs, and recognizing how project information guides material planning. Estimating mistakes can lead to material shortages, waste, incorrect labor planning, and delays, so candidates should be comfortable with basic masonry quantity concepts.

Unit Masonry preparation should include brick, block, stone, layout, coursing, bond patterns, wall construction, plumb and level work, joint finishing, openings, veneers, structural walls, and workmanship. Since Unit Masonry is the largest exam section, students should spend steady study time reviewing both field practices and related reference material.

Mortar and Grout preparation should include mortar types, mixing, consistency, placement, joint work, grout space, reinforcement coordination, consolidation awareness, curing conditions, and quality control. Mortar and grout are essential to masonry performance, so candidates should understand how these materials support strength, bonding, appearance, and durability.

Accessories and Specialties preparation should include flashing, weeps, anchors, ties, reinforcement, control joints, expansion joints, lintels, embedded items, and specialty masonry components. These details are important because masonry walls rely on more than units and mortar. Accessories often support movement, water management, structural performance, and proper connection to other building systems.

Tools preparation should include hand tools, power tools, masonry saws, levels, trowels, jointers, layout tools, scaffolding awareness, equipment use, and safe handling. Candidates should understand which tools are used for specific masonry tasks and how tool selection affects quality and productivity.

Restoration and Cleaning preparation should include cleaning methods, stain awareness, repair practices, repointing concepts, surface protection, damage prevention, and restoration workmanship. Masonry restoration requires care because aggressive cleaning or improper repair can damage brick, block, stone, mortar joints, or surrounding surfaces.

OSHA Safety should be studied throughout the preparation process. Candidates should review scaffold safety, fall protection, ladder safety, personal protective equipment, material handling, silica awareness, tool safety, excavation safety, housekeeping, and hazard recognition. Masonry work can involve heavy materials, elevated work, cutting tools, dust exposure, and active construction conditions, so safety knowledge is essential for both the exam and field performance.

How 1 Exam Prep Helps You Reach Your Goal

1 Exam Prep helps students prepare for the Arizona Masonry Residential / Commercial Contractor (CR-31) Exam with organized study guidance, trade-focused review, code awareness, reference navigation support, and practice-oriented preparation. The course is designed to help candidates move through masonry topics with structure, so preparation feels more manageable and targeted.

For this exam, students need to understand residential and commercial masonry materials, unit masonry, mortar, grout, accessories, specialties, estimating, plan reading, tools, restoration, cleaning, masonry code requirements, building code organization, and OSHA safety. 1 Exam Prep helps organize these areas into a clear preparation path that supports exam readiness.

Open book exams require more than owning the correct references. Students need to know how the books are arranged, how the exam topics connect to the references, and how to locate important information under time pressure. 1 Exam Prep supports this process through reference navigation guidance when applicable and an exam-focused study structure.

The course also helps students build confidence through repeated review and a more practical study routine. It does not replace hands-on masonry experience, and it does not guarantee a passing score, license approval, or any specific outcome. It is built to help students prepare with better organization, stronger topic awareness, and more confidence as they approach the Arizona CR-31 trade exam.

FAQ Section

What is the Arizona CR-31 Masonry contractor exam?

The Arizona CR-31 Masonry contractor exam is the trade exam for candidates pursuing the Arizona residential / commercial masonry contractor classification. It covers estimating and plan reading, unit masonry, mortar and grout, accessories and specialties, tools, restoration and cleaning, and safety.

How many questions are on the Arizona CR-31 Masonry exam?

The exam contains 60 questions. Candidates are allowed 150 minutes to complete the test, and the minimum passing score is 70%.

Is the Arizona CR-31 Masonry exam open book?

Yes. The Arizona CR-31 Masonry exam is an open book test. Candidates may bring approved references into the testing center, but the books must follow exam-room rules for highlighting, annotations, indexing, permanent tabs, and permitted materials.

What subjects are covered on the Arizona CR-31 exam?

The exam content outline includes Estimating and Plan Reading, Unit Masonry, Mortar and Grout, Accessories and Specialties, Tools, Restoration and Cleaning, and Safety.

What work is included in the Arizona CR-31 classification?

The CR-31 Masonry classification allows the scopes of work permitted by the commercial C-31 Masonry and residential R-31 Masonry classifications. It is intended for contractors performing masonry work in both residential and commercial settings.

Which books are approved for the CR-31 exam room?

The exam-room-approved references include Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA), International Building Code, International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, ACI 530/530.1-13, and Modern Masonry – Brick, Block, Stone.

Can I use temporary tabs in my books during the exam?

No. Temporary tabs are not allowed. Approved references may be tabbed with permanent tabs only, and removable notes or tabs must be removed before the exam begins.

Who should take this online exam prep course?

This course is intended for candidates preparing for the Arizona Masonry Residential / Commercial Contractor (CR-31) Exam, including qualifying parties, masonry contractors, brick masons, block masons, stone masons, restoration professionals, supervisors, project managers, and business owners.

Does this course guarantee that I will pass the exam?

No. This course does not guarantee a passing score, license approval, or any specific exam outcome. It is designed to help students prepare through organized review, trade-focused study, code familiarization, reference navigation, and open book practice.

Why is online exam prep helpful for this masonry contractor exam?

Online exam prep helps students study with structure. It supports review of masonry materials, code requirements, OSHA safety, approved references, and exam-style preparation so candidates can approach the timed open book test with better organization.