There are five classifications of electrician, each with its own test. The test required for a general journeyman electrician has 100 questions. For a residential journeyman electrician, there are 75 questions. The tests for fire/life safety technicians; voice, data and video technicians; and non-residential lighting technicians have 50 questions each. The exam runs between two to four hours, depending on which test you are taking. It is composed of multiple choice questions, and a score of 70 percent is needed to pass. You will find out if you passed the test on the day of the exam.
Many electricians take a test preparation class before the exam. These classes can be found at local community colleges, private electrician training schools, federal or state apprenticeship programs or state-licensed training schools. Schedule the class so you have enough time to finish by the test date. There are also study books available to guide you through the types of questions that will be on the exam.
Beginning on January 1, 2011, the certification exam uses the NEC 2008 code book which will be provided to you on the test day. The exam is open book; you may use the code book during the exam. When taking the test, be sure to read the questions all the way through. Decide what you think the answer is before looking at the possible answers given. If one of the choices matches what you have already decided, you will be more certain you have the correct answer. If you aren't sure, first eliminate the answers you know are wrong. Once you have decided on an answer, don't change it. Your first hunch is usually correct.
Get plenty of sleep before the test. Be prepared with the right materials on test day and be there on time so stress is not an issue. It is normal to feel anxious about taking a test; just try to do your best and feel confident in your preparation. Don't listen to other test takers who are experiencing anxiety; they will only make you more anxious. Take the test one question at a time and don't look ahead. Use deep breathing if you feel overwhelmed. Have faith in your abilities and expect the best.
If you don't pass the test, you may take it again in 60 days. Reapply using a new application form.