ICC 77 study guide
ICC 77 · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
ICC 77 refers to the Certified Building Official (CBO) credential offered by the International Code Council (ICC). The CBO is an ICC professional certification for individuals who manage or perform building department functions - typically building officials, plans examiners, inspectors, and code enforcement staff who want to demonstrate competence at the departmental leadership level. The ICC 77 study guide has 6 sections and about 2,023 words.
01Administration and Enforcement
The Administration and Enforcement domain tests the building official's code-based authority under IBC Chapter 1: permit processing, plan review, inspections, certificates of occupancy, enforcement actions, and appeals. Expect questions on who may approve deferred submittals, when a permit expires, and what an inspection approval actually certifies.
349 words, about 2 min02Building Planning
Building Planning tests occupancy classification, type of construction, allowable height and area, mixed occupancies, mezzanines, and incidental uses. The exam asks you to look at a use and determine the controlling occupancy group, then apply Chapter 5 limits and Chapter 6 construction type.
366 words, about 2 min03Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
This domain tests fire-resistance-rated construction, automatic sprinkler and alarm systems, standpipes, smoke control, and interior finishes. Questions often turn on whether a rated assembly is required, what rating applies, and which opening protectives are permitted.
328 words, about 2 min04Means of Egress
Means of Egress tests occupant load, egress width, number of exits, travel distance, common path, door and stair requirements, and exit discharge. The exam expects you to calculate occupant load first and then apply the component requirements in sequence.
358 words, about 2 min05Structural
Structural tests loads, load combinations, risk categories, seismic design, foundations, and special inspections. The exam focuses on the building official's role: verifying that the design basis is stated, that special inspections are identified, and that structural observations are required where triggered.
319 words, about 2 min06Accessibility
Accessibility tests the scoping provisions of IBC Chapter 11 and the technical criteria of ICC A117.1. The exam asks what must be accessible, not just how to build a ramp.
303 words, about 2 min