C-33 California Painting Contractor License Practice Exam

The C-33 California Painting Contractor License practice exam preps you for the actual state exam.



This contractor's license practice exam for the California Painting Contractor License is created using the same materials that the license board uses to prepare the state tests.



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Below, I've listed the examples and information that the CSLB (California Contractor's State License Board) gives about what your C-33 Painting and Decorating California state license exam will look like. You can use this info while considering practice exams.

Please don't rely on the practice exams as your only source of education (e.g. schooling, books, etc.) because the practice exams do not contain the exact questions that the state exam does (unless by coincidence; if it's on purpose it's illegal). Also, make sure that any practice exams you do use are up to date.

The main purpose of practice exams is to help you familiarize yourself with the actual taking of the state test; they're not designed to educate the user on the subject matter.

Sample questions for the C-33 Painting and Decorating California state license exam:


1. What is the square footage of a gable 12 ft. wide by 6 ft. high?

  • A. 24 sq. ft.
  • B. 36 sq. ft.
  • C. 42 sq. ft.
  • D. 72 sq. ft.

(B is the correct answer)

2. Which tool should be used to apply chemical strippers?

  • A. A sponge roller
  • B. A damp rag
  • C. A wire brush
  • D. A bristle brush

(D is the correct answer)

3. What effect will cold, damp days have on primers?

  • A. The surface will become brittle.
  • B. The drying time will increase.
  • C. The top coat will discolor.
  • D. Fish eye will occur.

(B is the correct answer)

Approximate percentages of each subject in the C-33 Painting and Decorating California state license exam:


1. Planning and Estimating

Planning and Estimating will comprise about 28% of your state exam.

Examples given of the types of subjects under this topic:

  • Evaluating job sites
  • Selecting tools, equipment, and materials
  • Selecting paint, stain, and finish colors and products
  • Reading blueprints and specifications
  • Estimating job costs for materials, supplies, equipment, and labor
  • Estimating painting products


2. Substrate Repair and Surface Preparation

Substrate Repair and Surface Preparation will comprise about 30% of your state exam.

Examples given of the types of subjects under this topic:

  • Identifying problems
  • Scraping, sanding, and wallpaper removal
  • Patching, caulking, and repairing
  • Masking and protecting job sites
  • Removing paint and cleaning surfaces
  • Applying primer


3. Application of Paint, Wallcoverings, and Finishes

Application of Paint, Wallcoverings, and Finishes will comprise about 21% of your state exam.

Examples given of the types of subjects under this topic:

  • Applying paint and wallcoverings to surfaces
  • Applying waterproofing or sealant
  • Staining, sealing, and finishing wood surfaces
  • Applying touch-ups and cleaning work areas


4. Safety

Job Site Safety will comprise about 21% of your state exam.

Examples given of the types of subjects under this topic:

  • Tool and Equipment Safety
  • Personnel and Jobsite Safety
  • Environmental Safety
  • Handling Hazardous Materials
  • Cal/OSHA Safety Requirements


Per the CSLB, all questions are written and reviewed by licensed contractors who are actively working in the trade.


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