You’ve finished your electrician’s apprenticeship, and
you’re ready for the next step. You’re ready to become a journeyman electrician.
In addition to training requirements, these professionals must take and pass
the Journeyman Electrician exam. It’s an important test that shows these
electricians have mastered the skills in several areas, including wiring,
voltage, and current. This guide provides an overview of what you can expect
when taking the test and offers a guide to help you prepare.
Is the Journeyman Electrician exam the same across the country?
No. Each state or local jurisdiction can format its exam differently. It’s best to check with your local licensing agency for specifics.
Where can I take the test?
That depends. Some states use a private testing company to deliver the test to students. Check with your licensing agency.
Will I have to pay a fee to take this test?
Yes. Check with your local licensing agency on the cost to take the exam.
What can you tell me about the test itself?
The test questions are based on the National Electric Code, the recognized standard of electrical safety used in all 50 states. Some of the exams are open-book tests, which means candidates can bring the national codebook into the testing room. Some jurisdictions allow other materials, like a state codebook, into the exam room. There are rules on highlighting the various codebook materials, so please be sure to check with your local licensing agency. Candidates will also receive a 15-minute tutorial that does not count against the overall test time.
How many questions are on the test?
The number of exam questions varies by state. The test time varies, too. Some exams contain pre-test questions that are not scored. These questions are tested for possible use on future exams.
What categories can I expect to see on the exam?
Again, that varies by state. But here are some of the categories candidates can expect to see:
- Voltage, including voltage drop
- Currents
- Resistance
- Power
- General requirements and definitions
- Lighting and General Use Equipment
- State Rules and Laws
- Communications systems
- Grounding and Bonding
- Overcurrent Protection
- Services, Feeders, and Branch Circuits
- Raceways and Enclosures
- Conductors and Cables
- Special Occupancies and Equipment
- Motors and Controllers
- Motors and Generators
- Electrical Control Devices and Disconnecting means
- Electrical Services and Service Equipment
- Electrical Equipment and Devices
- Definitions, Calculations, Theory, and Plans
- Electrical Feeders
- Branch Circuit Calculations and Conductors
- Wiring Methods and Electrical Material
When should I arrive at the exam site?
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. This allows time for candidates to have their identity verified and undergo other sign-in procedures. Any candidate who arrives late runs the risk of not being allowed to take the test, forfeiting all exam fees.
What identification will I need on the day I take the Journeyman Electrician exam?
Please bring at least one form of identification. Government-issued ID, like a driver’s license, passport, or state identification are all acceptable. Remember to check your local jurisdiction requirements since they may be different.
What items are banned from the test room?
Generally, all personal items are prohibited. That means mobile phones, electronic devices, and certain items of clothing, including bulky coats, hats, and headgear.
Am I allowed to bring my calculator into the exam room?
Some states allow candidates to bring a non-programmable calculator into the test center.
What about scores? How will I know if I passed or failed the Journeyman Electrician exam?
Some candidates will receive their scores as soon as they complete the exam, others will be notified at a later date by email or mail. Check with your local licensing agency for details.
How Can I Prepare for the Journeyman Electrician Exam?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide for your exam. See the link below!