CA Seismic
California Civil Seismic Principles Examination
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ExploreAbout this exam
The California Civil Seismic Principles Examination is one of the California-specific exams administered by the Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists (BPELSG) for civil engineering licensure in the state. It is intended for civil engineer applicants who must demonstrate knowledge of seismic design principles as part of the California licensing process. The exam is multiple choice and focuses on seismic principles applied to civil engineering practice, including how building code provisions and referenced standards govern seismic analysis and design. Preparation should center on the code editions the Board states are currently tested. According to the Board, the Civil Seismic Principles Exam will continue the test to the 2022 California Building Code and ASCE 7–16 for the remainder of 2026. The Board also announced that the 2025 California Building Code and ASCE 7–22 will be implemented on the 2027 Civil Seismic Principles Exam. Candidates should therefore confirm the code edition in effect for their target test date before purchasing references or study materials, and should build a study plan around the currently tested codes rather than older editions. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Board.
What you'll study
About CA Seismic preparation
Which building code edition does the exam currently test?
The Board announced on July 10, 2026 that the Civil Seismic Principles Exam will continue the test to the 2022 California Building Code and ASCE 7–16 for the remainder of 2026. Confirm the edition in effect for your specific test date before you buy references.
When will the exam move to the 2025 code and ASCE 7–22?
The Board states that the 2025 California Building Code and ASCE 7–22 will be implemented on the 2027 Civil Seismic Principles Exam. If you plan to test in 2027, study the newer editions; if you test in 2026, study the 2022 code and ASCE 7–16.
What is the exam format?
The Board lists the exam as multiple choice. The source page does not state the number of questions, the time limit, or the passing score, so verify those details with the Board directly rather than relying on secondhand study guides.
How much does the exam cost?
The Board approved a fees regulation amending Title 16, California Code of Regulations sections 407 and 3005, covering initial license, examination, renewal, delinquency, and retired license fees. That action became effective July 1, 2026. Check the Board's current fee schedule for the exact amount.
How hard is the exam?
Difficulty is not published. The exam is code-driven, so most candidates struggle when they study from memory or outdated editions instead of the currently tested code and standard. Working practice problems directly against the code text you will use on exam day is the most reliable way to build speed and accuracy.
What if I fail - can I retake it?
The source page does not state a retake policy, waiting period, or attempt limit. Contact the Board for the current rules before you schedule, and plan your study timeline so a retake does not collide with your license application deadlines.
What study order do you recommend?
Start with the seismic provisions of the currently tested California Building Code, then work through ASCE 7–16 seismic chapters, then practice applying both to civil engineering problems. Add timed practice only after you can locate and apply provisions accurately without notes.
What are the most common failure modes?
Studying an outdated code edition, memorizing formulas without understanding when they apply, and skipping the code's exceptions and limitations are frequent problems. Another is poor time management on multiple-choice items. Practice reading provisions precisely and confirming which edition governs your test date.
Is this page affiliated with the Board?
No. This is an independent study resource. The Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists is the official authority for exam content, code editions, fees, and scheduling. Always confirm details on the Board's website before making decisions about your application or test date.