The 1 Package: All-Inclusive New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) Examination Contractor Exam, Licensing & Business Setup Solution

The 1 Package for the New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) examination is an all-inclusive exam preparation, licensing support, and business setup solution for contractors preparing for one of New Mexico’s broadest building classifications. This package is designed for serious candidates who want more than a book bundle. It includes the listed reference books, business and trade course access, Application Service, business formation support, EIN filing with the IRS, contractor compliance guidance, and a credit toward the required New Mexico contractor bond.

The New Mexico GB-98 General Building classification is a major contractor classification for building construction. It is connected to residential and commercial building work and includes the ability to erect, alter, repair, or demolish residential and commercial buildings and certain structures within the scope of the classification. Because the scope is broad, the exam preparation process requires strong familiarity with commercial building code, New Mexico administrative rules, construction methods, concrete, reinforcing steel, gypsum systems, steel deck, post-tensioning, precast concrete, steel joists, carpentry, masonry, excavation, OSHA safety standards, business law, and New Mexico licensing rules.

This package is priced at $3,985 plus a $1,250 deposit, for a total of $5,235. It also includes a credit toward the required $10,000 New Mexico contractor bond, with 1 Exam Prep covering the cost of the first year’s bond. For contractors who want exam preparation and business setup support in one place, The 1 Package provides a structured path from studying to licensing paperwork and business readiness.

Preparing for the GB-98 Part 2 examination requires more than field experience. Candidates need to understand how the approved references are organized, how to locate code sections quickly, how to apply construction standards, and how to connect practical building knowledge to exam-style questions. This package brings together the books, course access, and business setup support needed to approach the process with a clear plan.

Exam Details

The New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) examination is a reference-based contractor exam focused on building construction knowledge, commercial building standards, construction methods, safety, structural materials, and code application. Candidates should be prepared to work with a large set of technical references covering general building construction, commercial code requirements, concrete, masonry, steel, gypsum, carpentry, excavation, safety, and contractor business law.

The GB-98 classification is New Mexico’s general building classification. It requires knowledge across a wide range of building systems and construction activities. Candidates may encounter preparation topics related to commercial building code organization, occupancy and construction concepts, structural concrete, masonry, reinforcing steel, steel deck, joists and joist girders, precast concrete erection, post-tensioning, gypsum assemblies, carpentry, excavation, OSHA safety rules, and project-level construction practices.

The International Building Code, 2021 and New Mexico Commercial Building Code materials are central references for commercial building requirements. Candidates should understand how to navigate chapters, definitions, tables, occupancy-related provisions, construction type concepts, fire-resistance requirements, means of egress concepts, structural provisions, and building safety requirements. The New Mexico Administrative Code Title 14 and New Mexico licensing materials help connect the exam preparation process to state-level construction rules.

The trade references support the practical construction side of the exam. Concrete references help candidates review mix design, placement, finishing, curing, reinforcement, structural concrete requirements, and quality control. Masonry references support preparation for brick, block, stone, masonry structures, and code requirements for masonry construction. Steel and precast references help candidates understand steel deck, steel joists, joist girders, precast erection practices, and post-tensioning fundamentals. OSHA materials support jobsite safety awareness and regulatory knowledge.

The business and law portion is also important because a licensed contractor must understand more than construction. Contractors must operate professionally, manage projects, follow licensing rules, maintain required bonding, understand contracts, handle insurance and employment responsibilities, manage financial records, and comply with applicable laws. This package includes business and trade course access to help candidates study both the technical and business sides of the licensing path.

Open Book Test

The New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) examination is an open book, reference-based exam using approved materials. Open book testing allows candidates to use approved references during the exam, but it still requires serious preparation. The book list is extensive, and candidates need to know how to locate information quickly, accurately, and under exam conditions.

An open book exam should not be treated as a simple lookup test. The correct answer may depend on a specific definition, table, code section, exception, construction standard, safety rule, detail, or business law concept. With many references involved, the challenge is often knowing which book to use first and where the answer is most likely located.

Strong preparation should include repeated reference navigation practice. Candidates should review the table of contents and index in each book, become familiar with chapter organization, identify major topic areas, practice timed lookups, and review missed questions carefully. The goal is to build the speed and confidence needed to move efficiently through a large reference set on exam day.

Licensing Steps

New Mexico contractor licensing requires candidates to follow the state process for the classification they are pursuing. For the GB-98 General Building classification, candidates should prepare for the required examination process, complete the correct application materials, maintain required bonding, and operate under the proper license classification.

The 1 Package includes Application Service to help customers organize the licensing paperwork. Contractor licensing applications can involve classification selection, qualifying party information, business entity details, supporting documents, bond requirements, and compliance-related information. Application Service helps reduce confusion by supporting the paperwork side of the licensing process.

Business formation is also included. Customers may choose LLC or Corporation setup support to help establish the business entity. A formal business structure helps a contractor present a professional identity, open business accounts, enter contracts, organize records, separate business activity from personal activity, and prepare for long-term operations.

EIN filing with the IRS is included as part of the package. An Employer Identification Number helps a contractor open business bank accounts, manage taxes properly, hire employees, and operate the contracting business professionally. This step supports the administrative foundation of a contracting business.

Contractor compliance guidance is also included. Licensed contractors must stay within the proper classification, maintain required bonding, follow applicable codes and rules, and operate in a professional manner. The GB-98 classification is broad, but contractors still need to understand state requirements, classification limits, subcontracting responsibilities, and compliance expectations.

State Requirements

The New Mexico GB-98 General Building classification is connected to residential and commercial building construction. The classification includes erecting, altering, repairing, or demolishing residential and commercial buildings and certain structures. It also includes work authorized by the GB-2 classification and specified related specialty classifications within the state’s classification structure.

New Mexico requires contractor applicants to meet licensing requirements tied to the classification, application process, and bond requirements. This package includes a credit toward the required $10,000 New Mexico contractor bond, with 1 Exam Prep covering the cost of the first year’s bond. Bonding is a key part of contractor licensing readiness and helps support compliance with state requirements.

State requirements also involve operating under the proper license classification. Even though GB-98 is a broad building classification, contractors must understand when work is within their scope and when specialty trade work may need to be handled by properly licensed subcontractors. Understanding scope is important before bidding, contracting, advertising, or performing work.

General building contractors must also understand that licensing is not only an exam issue. Contractors need to manage business records, follow applicable codes, meet safety obligations, maintain licensing requirements, and operate professionally. The included New Mexico administrative, construction, and licensing references help candidates prepare for both the exam and the responsibilities that come with licensed contracting.

Reference Books

• Included Book: New Mexico Administrative Code Title 14, 2015
  A New Mexico administrative code reference used to understand state construction rules, regulatory requirements, and administrative provisions connected to licensed contracting.
• Included Book: New Mexico Commercial Building Code (NMAC 14.7.2), 2021
  A state commercial building code reference used for New Mexico commercial building requirements and code application.
• Included Book: International Building Code, 2021
  A commercial building code reference covering building planning, occupancy concepts, construction types, fire-resistance requirements, means of egress, structural provisions, and safety requirements.
• Included Book: Principles and Practices of Commercial Construction 11th Edition
  A commercial construction reference covering modern construction methods, materials, systems, jobsite practices, and building construction principles.
• Included Book: Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures, 17th Edition
  A concrete reference covering concrete materials, mix design, proportioning, quality control, placement considerations, and performance characteristics.
• Included Book: Placing Reinforcing Bars
  A reinforcing steel reference covering rebar placement practices, reinforcing details, construction procedures, and field installation guidance.
• Included Book: Gypsum Construction Handbook, 7th Edition
  A gypsum systems reference covering gypsum board, assemblies, installation practices, finishing, fire-resistance concepts, and interior construction applications.
• Included Book: SDI (Steel Deck Institute) Manual of Construction with Steel Deck
  A steel deck construction reference covering steel deck materials, installation, fastening, construction details, and field practices.
• Included Book: Training and Certification of Field Personnel for Unbonded Post-Tensioning - Level 1 Field Fundamentals
  A post-tensioning reference covering field fundamentals, installation concepts, safety practices, terminology, and unbonded post-tensioning procedures.
• Included Book: Erectors' Manual – Standards and Guidelines for the Erection of PreCast Concrete Products, 2nd Edition, 1999
  A precast concrete erection reference covering standards, handling, erection practices, field safety, and guidelines for precast concrete products.
• Included Book: Technical Digest No. 9 – Handling and Erection of Steel Joists and Joist Girders, 3rd Edition
  A steel joist reference covering handling, erection, bracing, stability, and field practices for steel joists and joist girders.
• Included Book: Carpentry and Building Construction, 2016
  A building construction reference covering carpentry fundamentals, framing, layout, tools, materials, and practical construction methods.
• Included Book: Modern Masonry - Brick, Block, Stone, Clois E. Kicklighter 10th Edition
  A masonry reference covering brick, block, stone, masonry materials, installation techniques, construction details, and masonry practices.
• Included Book: Pipe and Excavation Contracting
  A construction reference covering excavation, trenching, pipe installation, site work, and related contracting practices.
• Included Book: Code of Federal Regulations - 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  A construction safety reference covering OSHA standards for construction, including fall protection, excavation safety, scaffolding, hazard communication, and worker protection requirements.
• Included Book: ACI 530/530.1-13: Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures and Companion Commentaries
  A masonry code reference covering building code requirements, specifications, and commentary for masonry structures.
• Included Book: ACI 318-14: Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary
  A structural concrete code reference covering concrete design and construction requirements with commentary for code application.
• Included Book: NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, 14th Edition
  A contractor business and law reference covering project management, contracts, estimating, financial management, safety, insurance, employment responsibilities, and general construction business operations.
• Included Book: New Mexico Construction Industries Licensing Act (NMSA Chapter 60, Article 13), 2006
  A New Mexico licensing law reference covering statutory rules related to construction industries licensing and contractor responsibilities.
• Included Book: New Mexico Contractor's License Requirement (NMAC Title 14, Chapter 6, Part 3), 2006
  A New Mexico administrative rule reference focused on contractor licensing requirements, application-related rules, and regulatory responsibilities.

Exam Room Approved Books

The GB-98 Part 2 examination is open book and uses approved references. Candidates should prepare with the books listed for the exam and become familiar with each reference before testing. This package includes the following preparation references:

• New Mexico Administrative Code Title 14, 2015
  Used for New Mexico construction and administrative rule preparation.
• New Mexico Commercial Building Code (NMAC 14.7.2), 2021
  Used for New Mexico commercial building code requirements.
• International Building Code, 2021
  Used for commercial building code navigation and construction requirements.
• Principles and Practices of Commercial Construction 11th Edition
  Used for commercial construction methods, materials, and building practices.
• Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures, 17th Edition
  Used for concrete materials, mix design, and quality control topics.
• Placing Reinforcing Bars
  Used for reinforcing steel placement and field installation practices.
• Gypsum Construction Handbook, 7th Edition
  Used for gypsum board systems, installation, assemblies, and finishing topics.
• SDI (Steel Deck Institute) Manual of Construction with Steel Deck
  Used for steel deck construction and installation practices.
• Training and Certification of Field Personnel for Unbonded Post-Tensioning - Level 1 Field Fundamentals
  Used for unbonded post-tensioning fundamentals and field practices.
• Erectors' Manual – Standards and Guidelines for the Erection of PreCast Concrete Products, 2nd Edition, 1999
  Used for precast concrete handling, erection, and field safety practices.
• Technical Digest No. 9 – Handling and Erection of Steel Joists and Joist Girders, 3rd Edition
  Used for steel joist and joist girder handling and erection practices.
• Carpentry and Building Construction, 2016
  Used for carpentry, framing, layout, and general building construction topics.
• Modern Masonry - Brick, Block, Stone, Clois E. Kicklighter 10th Edition
  Used for masonry materials, brick, block, stone, and masonry construction methods.
• Pipe and Excavation Contracting
  Used for excavation, trenching, pipe installation, and site work preparation.
• Code of Federal Regulations - 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  Used for construction safety standards and OSHA requirements.
• ACI 530/530.1-13: Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures and Companion Commentaries
  Used for masonry code requirements and specifications.
• ACI 318-14: Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary
  Used for structural concrete code requirements and commentary.
• NASCLA Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, 14th Edition
  Used for contractor business, law, and project management preparation.
• New Mexico Construction Industries Licensing Act (NMSA Chapter 60, Article 13), 2006
  Used for New Mexico construction licensing law.
• New Mexico Contractor's License Requirement (NMAC Title 14, Chapter 6, Part 3), 2006
  Used for New Mexico contractor licensing requirements and administrative rules.

Test Information and Study Materials

Preparation for the New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) examination should be organized around reference navigation, construction knowledge, safety awareness, and business law. The exam reference set is broad, so candidates should study with a plan instead of reading randomly through each book.

Trade preparation should include commercial building code requirements, concrete, reinforcing steel, masonry, gypsum systems, steel deck, precast concrete, post-tensioning, joists and joist girders, carpentry, excavation, OSHA safety, and commercial construction methods. Candidates should practice identifying which reference applies to each topic and how to locate the relevant information quickly.

Business preparation should include contractor licensing rules, contracts, project management, estimating, insurance, bonding, employee responsibilities, tax organization, financial management, safety responsibilities, and compliance. The NASCLA Contractors Guide and New Mexico licensing materials support this part of the preparation process.

The included business and trade course helps students study with structure. Course access supports focused review, practice-oriented preparation, and better reference navigation habits. Candidates can strengthen their performance by reviewing important sections, answering practice questions, correcting missed answers, and building familiarity with the approved books before exam day.

How 1 Exam Prep Helps You Reach Your Goal

1 Exam Prep helps students prepare for the New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) examination by combining books, course access, licensing application support, business formation, EIN filing, contractor compliance guidance, and bond credit in one all-inclusive solution. This gives candidates a more organized path from exam preparation to business setup.

The trade preparation helps students focus on commercial building construction, code navigation, concrete, masonry, steel, gypsum systems, excavation, carpentry, OSHA safety, and construction methods. The course structure supports practice-oriented study and helps students become more comfortable using the references during an open book exam.

The business preparation helps candidates understand the responsibilities of licensed contracting. A contractor must manage projects, understand contracts, maintain records, handle bonding and insurance responsibilities, follow licensing rules, and operate professionally. The included business and law preparation supports that broader contractor foundation.

The Application Service helps students organize licensing paperwork. Business formation support helps establish the company as an LLC or Corporation. EIN filing supports banking, tax organization, hiring, and professional operations. Contractor compliance guidance helps customers understand important responsibilities tied to licensed work in New Mexico.

The included bond credit adds another practical benefit. With 1 Exam Prep covering the cost of the first year’s required $10,000 New Mexico contractor bond, this package supports both the exam preparation side and the business setup side of the licensing process. 1 Exam Prep does not guarantee passing, licensing approval, or business results, but it provides structured support for candidates who want to prepare seriously and move forward with confidence.

FAQ Section

What is included in The 1 Package for the New Mexico GB-98 Part 2 examination?

This package includes the listed reference books, business and trade course access, 1 year of course access, Application Service, business formation support, EIN filing with the IRS, contractor compliance guidance, and a credit toward the required $10,000 New Mexico contractor bond.

How much does this New Mexico GB-98 Part 2 package cost?

The package price is $3,985 plus a $1,250 deposit, for a total of $5,235. The package also includes a credit toward the required New Mexico contractor bond, with 1 Exam Prep covering the cost of the first year’s bond.

Is the New Mexico GB-98 Part 2 examination open book?

Yes. The New Mexico General Building Contractor Part 2 (GB-98) examination is an open book, reference-based exam using approved materials. Candidates should study with the books in advance so they can locate information quickly and accurately during the exam.

What type of work does the New Mexico GB-98 classification cover?

The GB-98 General Building classification is connected to residential and commercial building construction. It includes erecting, altering, repairing, or demolishing residential and commercial buildings and certain structures within the scope of the classification.

Does this package include business setup?

Yes. This package includes LLC or Corporation business formation support, EIN filing with the IRS, Application Service, and contractor compliance guidance to help customers prepare for professional contractor operations.

Does this package include help with the New Mexico contractor bond?

Yes. This package includes a credit toward the required $10,000 New Mexico contractor bond, and 1 Exam Prep covers the cost of the first year’s bond.

Does this package include both business and trade preparation?

Yes. The package includes a business and trade course with 1 year of course access. The trade side supports GB-98 exam preparation, while the business side supports contractor law, project management, and licensing responsibilities.

Does 1 Exam Prep guarantee that I will pass the GB-98 examination?

No. 1 Exam Prep provides books, course access, study structure, application support, and business setup guidance, but exam results depend on the candidate’s preparation, experience, study habits, and performance on exam day.

Why choose The 1 Package instead of only buying the books?

The 1 Package includes more than books. It combines course access, trade and business preparation, application support, business formation, EIN filing, compliance guidance, and bond credit. This makes it a strong option for candidates who want help preparing for the exam and setting up the business side of contracting.