A comprehensive guide to the Tokutei-Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) Level 2 construction evaluation exam. Covering the 3 divisions — civil engineering, building, and lifeline/utilities — with exam content, latest pass rate data, and effective study methods from a 20-year construction industry expert.
建設業界で20年の現場経験を持ち、数多くの外国人技能実習生の指導にあたってきた。現在はUKARU代表として、建設分野の特定技能試験対策をDXし、外国人が日本で長く活躍できる環境づくりに注力している。
著者について詳しく→The Tokutei-Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) Level 2 evaluation exam in the construction field is a career turning point for foreign skilled workers. Passing it removes the limit on your period of stay and allows you to bring your family to Japan. This article provides a comprehensive guide — from the overall exam structure to specific study methods — based on 20 years of experience in the construction industry.
The Tokutei-Ginou (Specified Skilled Worker) system is a residency status created in 2019 to address Japan's labor shortage.
| Item | Tokutei-Ginou Level 1 | Tokutei-Ginou Level 2 | |------|----------------------|----------------------| | Period of Stay | Up to 5 years | No limit (renewable) | | Family Accompaniment | Not allowed | Allowed | | Permanent Residency | Cannot apply | Can apply | | Skill Level | Considerable knowledge and experience | Proficient skills | | Construction Field | All work categories | Civil Engineering, Building, Lifeline/Utilities |
Tokutei-Ginou Level 2 is the most important qualification for foreign skilled workers who want to build a long-term career in Japan.
The Tokutei-Ginou Level 2 evaluation exam in the construction field consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam.
On the practical exam, questions regarding drawing interpretation (図面) and safety measures (安全対策) carry significant weight. Instead of just memorizing, try to visualize actual scenarios on a construction site to make the most accurate judgments.
You must pass both exams. Passing only one is not accepted.
This exam covers civil engineering work including roads (道路 / dōro), bridges (橋梁 / kyōryō), rivers (河川 / kasen), and tunnels.
Main exam topics:
Civil engineering has the most examinees and the widest scope of questions.
This exam covers building construction.
Main exam topics:
Building construction requires broad study as it tests knowledge of both structural and finishing work.
This exam covers lifeline utilities including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Main exam topics:
Lifeline & Utilities is the most specialized division, which results in the lowest pass rate.
Looking at 2025 results, pass rates have risen significantly from the previous year.
| Division | 2025 Average | October 2025 Result | Trend | |----------|-------------|---------------------|-------| | Civil Engineering | ~40% | 55% | Rising | | Building | ~48% | 66% | Rising | | Lifeline & Utilities | ~35% | 57% | Rising |
Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan statistics
The rising pass rates can be attributed to improved study materials and better preparation by examinees. However, this is by no means an easy exam. Thorough preparation is essential.
Based on 20 years of experience in construction and the study patterns of many successful examinees, here are 5 effective study methods.
What successful examinees have in common is that they go through the same question bank at least 3 times.
The exam is given in Japanese. Make sure to learn the following terms:
Start by understanding the content with explanations in your native language, then gradually shift to Japanese-only study.
This method allows you to improve both content understanding and Japanese ability simultaneously.
Research shows that studying 30 minutes daily is more effective for memory retention than long study sessions.
UKARU is a study app specifically designed for the Tokutei-Ginou Level 2 Construction exam.
There is no limit on the number of attempts. You can retake the exam as many times as needed. However, since the exam is only held a few times per year, it's important to plan your exam schedule carefully.
You cannot take both simultaneously. The typical path is to take the Level 2 exam after obtaining Level 1, but you can take the Level 2 exam itself without having Level 1 status (following the 2023 policy change).
There is no JLPT requirement for the Tokutei-Ginou Level 2 exam. However, since the exam is given in Japanese, having N3 to N2 level Japanese ability is advantageous.
After passing the exam, you apply for a change of residency status at the Immigration Services Agency. The review process takes approximately 1 to 3 months. It is common for the employing company to support the application process.
It varies by individual, but 3 to 6 months is a good guideline. If you already have practical experience from Level 1, 3 months may suffice; if starting from the basics, plan for 6 months. Studying 30 minutes daily is the fastest path to passing.
The Tokutei-Ginou Level 2 Construction exam is not easy. However, with the right study methods and consistent effort, it is absolutely a passable exam.
We're cheering you on toward passing.