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Free ACI Aggregate Level 1 Exam Prep

ACI Aggregate Testing Technician Level 1

Prepare for the ACI Aggregate Level 1 exam without spending hundreds on expensive prep courses. Free study guides, practice questions, flashcards, and related exam resources.

Quick Facts

7
Chapters
22
Sections
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Updated January 2026
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ACI ACI Concrete Certifications License: Complete Roadmap

Follow this path to organize your licensing and exam preparation

1

Aggregate Fundamentals and TerminologyYou are here

Learn the four moisture states (oven-dry, air-dry, SSD, moist), nominal maximum aggregate size, sieve nomenclature (No. 4 = 4.75 mm, No. 200 = 75 μm), and ASTM C33 basic requirements for fine and coarse aggregate used in concrete.

8
hours
2

Sampling and Sample Reduction (D75 + C702)

Master field sampling techniques from stockpiles, conveyors, and transportation units per ASTM D75, then sample reduction by mechanical splitter (Method A), quartering (Method B), and miniature stockpile (Method C) per ASTM C702.

8
hours
3

Sieve Analysis and Fineness Modulus (C136 + C117)

Learn gradation procedures, sieve series for fine and coarse aggregate, fineness modulus calculation, the 0.3% mass-check tolerance, and the washing method for materials finer than No. 200 (ASTM C117).

12
hours
4

Specific Gravity and Absorption (C127 + C128)

Study the coarse aggregate wire basket method (C127) and the fine aggregate pycnometer/cone method (C128). Memorize bulk, bulk SSD, and apparent relative density formulas plus absorption calculations.

12
hours
5

Moisture Content and Organic Impurities (C566 + C40)

Learn total evaporable moisture by drying and how to compute free surface moisture for batch water adjustment. Study the ASTM C40 sodium hydroxide color test for organic impurities with 24-hour standing time and Gardner color comparison.

6
hours
6

Performance Exam Hands-On Practice

Practice each ASTM procedure hands-on until you can perform all steps without reference to notes. Use CP-44 performance checklists. Time yourself and focus on areas where the examiner will watch for technique errors.

10
hours
7

Full Practice Exam and Review

Take timed full-length practice tests covering all 8 ASTM/AASHTO standards. Review weak areas and re-read any standard where you score below 70%. Tab your CP-44 workbook for efficient open-book navigation.

6
hours
Estimated total study time
62 hours
That's about 7 weeks at 10 hours/week

Can You Take the ACI Aggregate Level 1 Exam?

Check if you meet the basic eligibility requirements

Age
Education
No formal education requirement
Experience
No required experience; hands-on aggregate lab experience strongly recommended for the performance exam
Additional Requirements
  • Candidates must register through an ACI-approved sponsoring group or local ACI chapter
  • ACI CP-44 Technician Workbook is the official study reference
  • Open-book written exam — ASTM/AASHTO standards and CP-44 workbook may be used
  • Closed-book performance exam — procedures must be demonstrated from memory
  • Valid government-issued photo ID required at the testing session

ACI Aggregate Level 1 Quick Facts

Time to Get Licensed

4-10 weeks typical

From start to license in hand

Exam Provider

ACI local chapters and sponsoring groups

In-Person Only
Schedule Your Exam

Retake Policy

Candidates who fail the written or performance exam may retake the failed portion. Chapter policies vary on wait periods and fees; contact your local ACI chapter for specifics.

Total Cost Breakdown

Exam Fee~$275-$400 (member rate, varies by chapter)
Total Estimated Cost~$365-$670 (exam + workbook)
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What You'll Study

7 chapters covering the exam topics in this guide

ACI Aggregate Level 1 Exam Details

ACI Aggregate Testing Technician Level 1

Administered by American Concrete Institute (ACI)

Official Source
60% per standard and 70% overall (written); pass/fail (performance)
Passing Score
~100
Questions
2
Hours
~$275-$550 (varies by ACI chapter)
Exam Fee
Study time: 40-80 hours
Prerequisites: None — anyone may register for the written and performance exams
Valid for: 5 years; recertification requires passing both written and performance exams again

Exam Content Breakdown

Based on the official American Concrete Institute (ACI) content outline

ASTM C136 / AASHTO T27 — Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates16%

Gradation procedures, fineness modulus calculation, sieve series, mass check tolerance, and sieving endpoint criteria

ASTM C127 / AASHTO T85 — Relative Density and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate12%

Bulk, bulk (SSD), and apparent relative density; wire basket buoyancy; absorption formula ((B-A)/A)*100

ASTM C128 / AASHTO T84 — Relative Density and Absorption of Fine Aggregate12%

Pycnometer method, cone-and-tamper SSD verification, de-airing, and density formulas for fine aggregate

Aggregate Fundamentals and Definitions12%

Moisture states, nominal maximum size, sieve sizes, ASTM C33 requirements, ACI certification rules

ASTM D75 / AASHTO T2 — Sampling of Aggregates10%

Field sampling from stockpiles, conveyors, and transportation units; minimum sample mass by NMAS

ASTM C702 / AASHTO T248 — Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size10%

Method A (riffle splitter), Method B (quartering), Method C (miniature stockpile — damp fines only)

ASTM C117 / AASHTO T11 — Material Finer Than 75 μm (No. 200) by Washing10%

Washing procedure, sieve protection, endpoint (clear water), formula A=((B-C)/B)*100, ASTM C33 fines limits

ASTM C566 / AASHTO T255 — Total Evaporable Moisture by Drying10%

Drying to constant mass at 110±5°C, p=100*(W-D)/D, free moisture vs absorption, batch water adjustment

ASTM C40 / AASHTO T21 — Organic Impurities in Fine Aggregates8%

3% NaOH color test, Gardner color standards, 24-hour standing time, follow-up with ASTM C87

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What's Next After the ACI Aggregate Level 1?

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ACI Aggregate Level 1 Exam FAQ

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