ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
ACI CONCRETE FIELD-TESTING TECHNICIAN GRADE I
CERTIFICATION EXAM CP-1 (12)
Questions & Answers | Grade A | 100% Correct
Latest Update 2026/2027 | Aligned with ASTM C172, C1064, C143, C138, C31, C231, C173
Written Exam: 55 Questions, 60 Minutes, Closed-Book | Passing: 60% per Method AND 70% Overall
Section 1: Safety Practices & Technician Responsibilities
PPE, Certification Scope, Physical Requirements (Q1 - Q8)
Q1: A certified ACI Grade I Concrete Field-Testing Technician arrives at a construction site to
perform routine testing. Which of the following is the technician's primary responsibility before
beginning any test?
A. Review the structural design drawings and mix design proportions
B. Assess the site for safety hazards including moving equipment, pump booms, and active operations
[CORRECT]
C. Authorize any necessary changes to the concrete mix proportions
D. Inspect the formwork and reinforcement placement
Correct Answer: B. Assess the site for safety hazards including moving equipment, pump booms, and
active operations
Rationale: Technician safety is the primary responsibility before field testing begins. The technician must assess hazards such as
moving equipment, pump booms, and active construction operations. ACI Grade I certification authorizes performance of
standardized tests only; it does not include mix design, structural design, or change order authorization.
Q2: Which of the following personal protective equipment (PPE) items is required for a concrete
field-testing technician on a construction site?
A. Hard hat, safety glasses, long pants, and steel or composite-toed shoes [CORRECT]
B. Shorts, t-shirt, and regular sneakers
C. Full-face respirator and chemical-resistant suit
D. Hearing protection only
Correct Answer: A. Hard hat, safety glasses, long pants, and steel or composite-toed shoes
Rationale: The required PPE for concrete field-testing technicians includes a hard hat, safety glasses, long pants, gloves, and
steel or composite-toed shoes. These protect against common construction site hazards. Hearing protection is required only in
designated high-noise areas. Full-face respirators and chemical suits are not standard PPE for routine concrete testing.
Page 1
,ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
Q3: An ACI Grade I Certified Concrete Field-Testing Technician is asked by the contractor to
approve a change in the water-cement ratio. What is the correct response?
A. Approve the change if the technician believes it will improve workability
B. Refuse, because mix design changes are outside the scope of Grade I certification [CORRECT]
C. Approve the change if documented in writing
D. Approve only if the slump is within specification
Correct Answer: B. Refuse, because mix design changes are outside the scope of Grade I certification
Rationale: ACI Grade I certification authorizes only the performance of standardized field tests according to ASTM procedures.
Mix design, structural design, and change order authorization are outside the scope of Grade I certification. The technician must
not approve changes to mix proportions regardless of conditions.
Q4: According to ACI CP-1 requirements, what is the minimum weight a technician must be able to
lift when performing concrete field tests?
A. 25 lb
B. 35 lb
C. 45 lb [CORRECT]
D. 60 lb
Correct Answer: C. 45 lb
Rationale: The ACI CP-1 certification requires that a technician must be physically capable of lifting at least 45 lbs when
performing unit weight and air content tests using the roller meter and other equipment. This requirement ensures the technician
can safely handle measures, air meter bowls, and filled containers during testing procedures.
Q5: Which statement best describes the purpose of ACI Grade I certification?
A. It authorizes the technician to design concrete mix proportions for any project
B. It demonstrates competence in performing standardized field tests and does not replace project
specifications [CORRECT]
C. It eliminates the need for project oversight or quality control programs
D. It qualifies the technician to interpret structural design requirements
Correct Answer: B. It demonstrates competence in performing standardized field tests and does not
replace project specifications
Rationale: ACI Grade I certification demonstrates that a technician has demonstrated competence in performing standardized
concrete field-testing procedures. It does not replace project specifications, engineering oversight, or quality control programs.
The certification is valid for 5 years and requires recertification through examination.
Q6: A concrete field-testing technician is performing tests near an active concrete pump boom.
Which safety precaution is most important?
A. Stand directly under the boom to catch samples
B. Maintain a safe distance from the boom and be aware of its swing radius [CORRECT]
C. Turn off the pump to obtain samples
D. Wear only safety glasses for protection
Correct Answer: B. Maintain a safe distance from the boom and be aware of its swing radius
Rationale: Concrete pump booms present significant crushing and striking hazards. The technician must maintain a safe distance
from the boom and be aware of its swing radius at all times. Standing under the boom is extremely dangerous. The technician
should not operate or turn off equipment unless authorized. Full PPE is required, not just safety glasses.
Page 2
,ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
Q7: How often must an ACI Grade I technician be recertified?
A. Every 2 years
B. Every 3 years
C. Every 5 years [CORRECT]
D. Certification does not expire
Correct Answer: C. Every 5 years
Rationale: ACI Grade I Concrete Field-Testing Technician certification is valid for 5 years. Recertification requires successful
completion of both the written examination and the performance examination. This ensures that technicians remain current with
ASTM standards and testing procedures.
Q8: Which of the following tasks is within the scope of an ACI Grade I Concrete Field-Testing
Technician?
A. Designing a concrete mix to meet a specified 28-day compressive strength
B. Performing slump, air content, temperature, and unit weight tests per ASTM standards [CORRECT]
C. Approving formwork removal schedules
D. Interpreting structural load requirements
Correct Answer: B. Performing slump, air content, temperature, and unit weight tests per ASTM
standards
Rationale: The ACI Grade I technician is authorized to perform standardized field tests including slump (ASTM C143), air
content (ASTM C231 or C173), temperature (ASTM C1064), unit weight (ASTM C138), and making/curing specimens (ASTM
C31). Mix design, formwork decisions, and structural interpretations are outside the Grade I scope.
Section 2: Sampling Fresh Concrete (ASTM C172)
Sampling Procedures, Time Limits, Composite Sample Requirements (Q9 - Q25)
Q9: According to ASTM C172, when is sampling by this method required?
A. Only when concrete is being used for decorative applications
B. When tests are to be made to determine compliance with specification requirements [CORRECT]
C. Only when the concrete is delivered by a truck mixer
D. Only when the ambient temperature exceeds 90 degrees F
Correct Answer: B. When tests are to be made to determine compliance with specification requirements
Rationale: ASTM C172 covers procedures for sampling fresh concrete and is required when tests are to be made to determine
compliance with specification requirements. This includes tests for slump, air content, temperature, unit weight, and strength. The
method applies regardless of delivery method or ambient conditions.
Q10: What is the maximum allowable time between obtaining the first and final portions of a
composite sample according to ASTM C172?
A. 5 minutes
B. 10 minutes
C. 15 minutes [CORRECT]
D. 30 minutes
Correct Answer: C. 15 minutes
Rationale: ASTM C172 specifies that the maximum allowable time between obtaining the first and final portions of a composite
sample is 15 minutes. This time limit ensures that the sample remains representative of the batch and that changes in concrete
properties during sampling are minimized.
Page 3
, ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
Q11: From which portion of the batch must a composite sample be obtained according to ASTM
C172?
A. The first portion discharged from the mixer
B. The last portion discharged from the mixer
C. The middle portion of the batch [CORRECT]
D. Any portion that is convenient to access
Correct Answer: C. The middle portion of the batch
Rationale: ASTM C172 requires that the composite sample be obtained from the middle portion of the batch. This portion is
most representative of the batch quality because the first portion may be enriched or depleted in ingredients, and the last portion
may have experienced water loss or segregation.
Q12: When sampling from a stationary mixer, the batch must be sampled at how many regularly
spaced intervals during discharge of the middle portion?
A. 1 or more intervals
B. 2 or more regularly spaced intervals [CORRECT]
C. Exactly 3 intervals
D. 5 or more intervals
Correct Answer: B. 2 or more regularly spaced intervals
Rationale: When sampling from a stationary mixer per ASTM C172, the batch must be sampled at two or more regularly spaced
intervals during discharge of the middle portion. This ensures the composite sample is representative of the entire middle portion
of the batch.
Q13: For a paving mixer, what is the minimum number of different portions required for a
composite sample according to ASTM C172?
A. 2 portions
B. 3 portions
C. 5 portions [CORRECT]
D. 7 portions
Correct Answer: C. 5 portions
Rationale: For a paving mixer, ASTM C172 requires a minimum of 5 different portions taken from the pile after discharge.
These portions are combined to form the composite sample. This higher number of portions compensates for the non-uniform
discharge pattern typical of paving mixers.
Q14: When sampling from a revolving drum truck mixer, what is the minimum number of regularly
spaced intervals required during discharge of the middle portion?
A. 1 interval
B. 2 intervals [CORRECT]
C. 3 intervals
D. 4 intervals
Correct Answer: B. 2 intervals
Rationale: ASTM C172 requires that when sampling from a revolving drum truck mixer, a minimum of 2 regularly spaced
intervals during discharge of the middle portion must be obtained. The technician passes a container through the discharge stream
or diverts portions into a sample container at these intervals.
Page 4
ACI CONCRETE FIELD-TESTING TECHNICIAN GRADE I
CERTIFICATION EXAM CP-1 (12)
Questions & Answers | Grade A | 100% Correct
Latest Update 2026/2027 | Aligned with ASTM C172, C1064, C143, C138, C31, C231, C173
Written Exam: 55 Questions, 60 Minutes, Closed-Book | Passing: 60% per Method AND 70% Overall
Section 1: Safety Practices & Technician Responsibilities
PPE, Certification Scope, Physical Requirements (Q1 - Q8)
Q1: A certified ACI Grade I Concrete Field-Testing Technician arrives at a construction site to
perform routine testing. Which of the following is the technician's primary responsibility before
beginning any test?
A. Review the structural design drawings and mix design proportions
B. Assess the site for safety hazards including moving equipment, pump booms, and active operations
[CORRECT]
C. Authorize any necessary changes to the concrete mix proportions
D. Inspect the formwork and reinforcement placement
Correct Answer: B. Assess the site for safety hazards including moving equipment, pump booms, and
active operations
Rationale: Technician safety is the primary responsibility before field testing begins. The technician must assess hazards such as
moving equipment, pump booms, and active construction operations. ACI Grade I certification authorizes performance of
standardized tests only; it does not include mix design, structural design, or change order authorization.
Q2: Which of the following personal protective equipment (PPE) items is required for a concrete
field-testing technician on a construction site?
A. Hard hat, safety glasses, long pants, and steel or composite-toed shoes [CORRECT]
B. Shorts, t-shirt, and regular sneakers
C. Full-face respirator and chemical-resistant suit
D. Hearing protection only
Correct Answer: A. Hard hat, safety glasses, long pants, and steel or composite-toed shoes
Rationale: The required PPE for concrete field-testing technicians includes a hard hat, safety glasses, long pants, gloves, and
steel or composite-toed shoes. These protect against common construction site hazards. Hearing protection is required only in
designated high-noise areas. Full-face respirators and chemical suits are not standard PPE for routine concrete testing.
Page 1
,ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
Q3: An ACI Grade I Certified Concrete Field-Testing Technician is asked by the contractor to
approve a change in the water-cement ratio. What is the correct response?
A. Approve the change if the technician believes it will improve workability
B. Refuse, because mix design changes are outside the scope of Grade I certification [CORRECT]
C. Approve the change if documented in writing
D. Approve only if the slump is within specification
Correct Answer: B. Refuse, because mix design changes are outside the scope of Grade I certification
Rationale: ACI Grade I certification authorizes only the performance of standardized field tests according to ASTM procedures.
Mix design, structural design, and change order authorization are outside the scope of Grade I certification. The technician must
not approve changes to mix proportions regardless of conditions.
Q4: According to ACI CP-1 requirements, what is the minimum weight a technician must be able to
lift when performing concrete field tests?
A. 25 lb
B. 35 lb
C. 45 lb [CORRECT]
D. 60 lb
Correct Answer: C. 45 lb
Rationale: The ACI CP-1 certification requires that a technician must be physically capable of lifting at least 45 lbs when
performing unit weight and air content tests using the roller meter and other equipment. This requirement ensures the technician
can safely handle measures, air meter bowls, and filled containers during testing procedures.
Q5: Which statement best describes the purpose of ACI Grade I certification?
A. It authorizes the technician to design concrete mix proportions for any project
B. It demonstrates competence in performing standardized field tests and does not replace project
specifications [CORRECT]
C. It eliminates the need for project oversight or quality control programs
D. It qualifies the technician to interpret structural design requirements
Correct Answer: B. It demonstrates competence in performing standardized field tests and does not
replace project specifications
Rationale: ACI Grade I certification demonstrates that a technician has demonstrated competence in performing standardized
concrete field-testing procedures. It does not replace project specifications, engineering oversight, or quality control programs.
The certification is valid for 5 years and requires recertification through examination.
Q6: A concrete field-testing technician is performing tests near an active concrete pump boom.
Which safety precaution is most important?
A. Stand directly under the boom to catch samples
B. Maintain a safe distance from the boom and be aware of its swing radius [CORRECT]
C. Turn off the pump to obtain samples
D. Wear only safety glasses for protection
Correct Answer: B. Maintain a safe distance from the boom and be aware of its swing radius
Rationale: Concrete pump booms present significant crushing and striking hazards. The technician must maintain a safe distance
from the boom and be aware of its swing radius at all times. Standing under the boom is extremely dangerous. The technician
should not operate or turn off equipment unless authorized. Full PPE is required, not just safety glasses.
Page 2
,ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
Q7: How often must an ACI Grade I technician be recertified?
A. Every 2 years
B. Every 3 years
C. Every 5 years [CORRECT]
D. Certification does not expire
Correct Answer: C. Every 5 years
Rationale: ACI Grade I Concrete Field-Testing Technician certification is valid for 5 years. Recertification requires successful
completion of both the written examination and the performance examination. This ensures that technicians remain current with
ASTM standards and testing procedures.
Q8: Which of the following tasks is within the scope of an ACI Grade I Concrete Field-Testing
Technician?
A. Designing a concrete mix to meet a specified 28-day compressive strength
B. Performing slump, air content, temperature, and unit weight tests per ASTM standards [CORRECT]
C. Approving formwork removal schedules
D. Interpreting structural load requirements
Correct Answer: B. Performing slump, air content, temperature, and unit weight tests per ASTM
standards
Rationale: The ACI Grade I technician is authorized to perform standardized field tests including slump (ASTM C143), air
content (ASTM C231 or C173), temperature (ASTM C1064), unit weight (ASTM C138), and making/curing specimens (ASTM
C31). Mix design, formwork decisions, and structural interpretations are outside the Grade I scope.
Section 2: Sampling Fresh Concrete (ASTM C172)
Sampling Procedures, Time Limits, Composite Sample Requirements (Q9 - Q25)
Q9: According to ASTM C172, when is sampling by this method required?
A. Only when concrete is being used for decorative applications
B. When tests are to be made to determine compliance with specification requirements [CORRECT]
C. Only when the concrete is delivered by a truck mixer
D. Only when the ambient temperature exceeds 90 degrees F
Correct Answer: B. When tests are to be made to determine compliance with specification requirements
Rationale: ASTM C172 covers procedures for sampling fresh concrete and is required when tests are to be made to determine
compliance with specification requirements. This includes tests for slump, air content, temperature, unit weight, and strength. The
method applies regardless of delivery method or ambient conditions.
Q10: What is the maximum allowable time between obtaining the first and final portions of a
composite sample according to ASTM C172?
A. 5 minutes
B. 10 minutes
C. 15 minutes [CORRECT]
D. 30 minutes
Correct Answer: C. 15 minutes
Rationale: ASTM C172 specifies that the maximum allowable time between obtaining the first and final portions of a composite
sample is 15 minutes. This time limit ensures that the sample remains representative of the batch and that changes in concrete
properties during sampling are minimized.
Page 3
, ACI CP-1 Concrete Field-Testing Technician Grade I Certification Exam 2026/2027 | Verified Answers | Grade A
Q11: From which portion of the batch must a composite sample be obtained according to ASTM
C172?
A. The first portion discharged from the mixer
B. The last portion discharged from the mixer
C. The middle portion of the batch [CORRECT]
D. Any portion that is convenient to access
Correct Answer: C. The middle portion of the batch
Rationale: ASTM C172 requires that the composite sample be obtained from the middle portion of the batch. This portion is
most representative of the batch quality because the first portion may be enriched or depleted in ingredients, and the last portion
may have experienced water loss or segregation.
Q12: When sampling from a stationary mixer, the batch must be sampled at how many regularly
spaced intervals during discharge of the middle portion?
A. 1 or more intervals
B. 2 or more regularly spaced intervals [CORRECT]
C. Exactly 3 intervals
D. 5 or more intervals
Correct Answer: B. 2 or more regularly spaced intervals
Rationale: When sampling from a stationary mixer per ASTM C172, the batch must be sampled at two or more regularly spaced
intervals during discharge of the middle portion. This ensures the composite sample is representative of the entire middle portion
of the batch.
Q13: For a paving mixer, what is the minimum number of different portions required for a
composite sample according to ASTM C172?
A. 2 portions
B. 3 portions
C. 5 portions [CORRECT]
D. 7 portions
Correct Answer: C. 5 portions
Rationale: For a paving mixer, ASTM C172 requires a minimum of 5 different portions taken from the pile after discharge.
These portions are combined to form the composite sample. This higher number of portions compensates for the non-uniform
discharge pattern typical of paving mixers.
Q14: When sampling from a revolving drum truck mixer, what is the minimum number of regularly
spaced intervals required during discharge of the middle portion?
A. 1 interval
B. 2 intervals [CORRECT]
C. 3 intervals
D. 4 intervals
Correct Answer: B. 2 intervals
Rationale: ASTM C172 requires that when sampling from a revolving drum truck mixer, a minimum of 2 regularly spaced
intervals during discharge of the middle portion must be obtained. The technician passes a container through the discharge stream
or diverts portions into a sample container at these intervals.
Page 4
