An earthwork and paving contractor digs, moves, and places material forming the surface of the earth, other than water, in such a manner that a cut, fill, excavation, grade, trench, backfill, or tunnel (if incidental thereto) can be executed, including the use of explosives for these purposes. This classification includes the mixing, fabricating and placing of paving and any other surfacing materials.
Authority cited: Sections 7008 and 7059, Reference: Sections 7058 and 7059 (Business and Professions Code)
Content of the Examination
The Earthwork and Paving (C-12) examination is divided into seven major sections. These sections are:
1. Estimating and Planning (15%)
Plans and specifications
Estimating earthwork
Estimating A.C., P.C.C. pavements, and seal coats
2. Site Control (7%)
Signage and traffic control
Dust, noise, and erosion control
3. Earthwork (31%)
Site layout and grade setting
Utilities and other site obstacles
Soil stability
Subgrade preparation
Trench excavation
Recycling of materials
4. Paving (25%)
Prep work for paving
Asphaltic concrete paving
Verification of mix design
Portland cement concrete paving
5. Paving Maintenance (7%)
Pavement preparation
Pavement sealants
6. Associated Paving Activities (5%)
Placement of risers and grade rings
Installation of curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and ramps
Parking and traffic markings
7. Safety (10%)
Personal safety
Jobsite safety
*Percentages are approximate*
Sample Questions
The following questions are typical of the types of items that are on the examination. The correct answer is highlighted.
1. What is the volume of a hole 120 feet long, 30 feet wide, and 6 feet deep?
500 cubic yards
800 cubic yards
1,200 cubic yards
1,300 cubic yards
2. What does the term "balanced dirt job" refer to?
Thorough distribution of aggregate in the soil mix
Level highway grade work without slopes or ditches
No excess dirt in cut and fill work
Proper compaction rate of the grade work
3. How many days does it take for standard portland cement concrete to reach maximum strength?
7 days
14 days
21 days
28 days
*All questions are written and reviewed by licensed contractors who are actively working in the field*
