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CCQ Carpenter-joiner Qualification Exam: Preparation Guide
This page summarizes the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ) qualification exam for the carpenter-joiner trade, in the version in force since August 4, 2026, and how this course prepares you for it. The official CCQ exam sheet prevails.
1. The trade and who takes the exam
Carpenter-joiners build framing, concrete formwork and interior and exterior finishing work on residential, commercial and institutional buildings. The apprenticeship has 3 periods of 2,000 hours (6,000 hours). Apprentices may register for the exam once they reach 85% of their apprenticeship; people who practised the trade outside an apprenticeship must prove hours at least equal to the full apprenticeship. Passing leads to the journeyman competency certificate.
2. Exam format
- 60 multiple-choice questions (4 choices, one correct answer), 1 point each
- Maximum duration: 3 hours, on computer
- Passing grade: 60% (overall score)
- Closed book: the CCQ provides a calculator, pencil, eraser and blank sheet; no other material is allowed
- Imperial and metric units; the exam is available in French, English or a bilingual version
3. The 3 exam sections
Section 1 — Build formwork and install deep foundations (28%)
- Interpret formwork plans, specifications and sketches; lay out a structure or building
- Build formwork for footings, pads and rafts
- Build formwork for concrete walls, columns and stairs
- Shore retaining walls
Section 2 — Erect framing and perform exterior finishing (47%)
- Floor framing, exterior walls and interior partitions (residential and commercial)
- Roof framing and wood stairs; reading framing plans and specifications
- Exterior cladding and sloped-roof coverings
- Exterior doors, windows and garage doors
Section 3 — Perform interior finishing (25%)
- Insulation and soundproofing
- Wall and ceiling coverings, suspended ceilings
- Interior doors and trim, wood or composite flooring
- Built-in furniture and assembly of wood stair components
Out of 60 questions, these weightings represent about 17, 28 and 15 questions.
4. Study documents suggested by the CCQ
These are for preparation only; they are not allowed during the exam.
- CMHC — Canadian Wood-Frame House Construction (2014)
- CEMEQ — Collection Charpenterie menuiserie, competencies 1 to 19
- APCHQ — L'abc des planchers de bois franc et des vernis dans le secteur résidentiel (2010)
- GCR — Technical sheet FT-9.7.6.1, window, door and skylight installation (2024 revision)
- Bailey — Steel studs, trims and accessories for drywall partitions
- Garaga — Installation guide (2014)
Some of these documents are sold separately by their publishers and are not included in the course.
5. Preparation strategy
- Focus on Section 2 (47%): floor, wall and roof framing, stairs, cladding, doors and windows.
- Section 1 (28%): formwork plans, layout, concrete volume calculations, retaining-wall shoring.
- Section 3 (25%): insulation, gypsum, suspended ceilings, trim, flooring, built-in furniture.
- Calculations: feet-inches / millimetre conversions, roof slopes, riser heights, volumes.
- Final stretch: timed 60-question, 3-hour practice exams, then review your mistakes.
6. What the course includes
The course follows the 3 exam sections with lessons, quizzes with explained answers, flashcards and calculation exercises. Access lasts 3 months from enrollment. Enrollment in the English CCQ courses is by private registration: write to info@prof-rbq.ca.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the CCQ carpenter-joiner exam?
60 multiple-choice questions since August 4, 2026 (61 before), each worth 1 point.
How long is the exam and what is the passing grade?
Up to 3 hours; the passing grade is 60%, based on the overall score.
Is the exam open book?
No. Only the calculator, pencil, eraser and blank sheet provided by the CCQ are allowed.
What are the exam sections?
Section 1: formwork and deep foundations (28%). Section 2: framing and exterior finishing (47%). Section 3: interior finishing (25%).
What changed on August 4, 2026?
The exam went from 61 to 60 questions and from 4 to 3 sections. Exterior finishing is now grouped with framing, retaining-wall shoring replaces pile placement, and the GCR FT-9.7.6.1 sheet replaces CSA A440.4 in the suggested documents.
When can I register for the exam?
From 85% of the apprenticeship (5,100 of 6,000 hours, training credits included). The $100 registration fee is non-refundable and valid for 12 months.
Is the exam available in English?
Yes: French, English or a bilingual version.
What happens if I fail?
Your result letter states the type of retake and when you can register again; the waiting period is generally 3 to 10 months. All sections are assessed again in a new version.
Sources: CCQ carpenter-joiner exam sheet in force from August 4, 2026, Eligibility and Retake pages (checked November 1, 2026). Prof-RBQ.ca is independent of the CCQ and the RBQ and does not guarantee exam success.
