
The requirements to become a journeyman electrician vary depending on the state. In Texas, candidates must complete 7,000 hours of on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed master electrician, and pass the state licensing exam. This exam allows the use of a basic calculator, without advanced features or internet connectivity. In California, the exam permits the use of a non-programmable calculator.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calculator type | Basic, non-programmable |
| Calculator features | No advanced features or internet connectivity |
| Code book | NEC Code Book, may bring your own |
| Exam type | Multiple-choice |
| Number of questions | 60-100, depending on the state |
| Passing score | Varies, typically 70-75% |
| Time limit | Varies, typically 4 hours |
| Exam fee | Varies, typically $70-100 |
| Prerequisites | Work experience, apprenticeship, and/or formal education |
| Work experience | 4-5 years, 7,000-8,000 hours |
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What You'll Learn
- Programmable calculators are prohibited
- Silent, battery-operated, non-programmable calculators are allowed
- Calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality are prohibited
- Calculators with infrared data ports must be covered with duct tape
- Accessible calculators are allowed with prior authorization

Programmable calculators are prohibited
The exam certifies that you have the skills and knowledge needed to perform your job with public and consumer safety in mind. It covers various topics, including definitions, calculations, theory, electrical services, branch circuits, wiring methods, electrical equipment, motors, control devices, special occupancies, and renewable energy technologies. The test measures a range of skills, including electrical theory, code compliance, practical application, and safety protocols.
To be eligible for the exam, candidates must meet specific experience requirements. They must have accumulated 4-5 years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician or have completed an apprenticeship program. In Texas, for example, candidates must complete at least 7,000 hours of on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed Master Electrician.
Most test providers allow the use of a basic calculator. However, programmable calculators are generally not permitted. This is because they can offer an unfair advantage or facilitate cheating.
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Silent, battery-operated, non-programmable calculators are allowed
For the Journeyman Electrician exam, candidates are permitted to bring their own calculator. However, it must be a basic, non-programmable calculator. Programmable calculators are generally not permitted for such tests. The calculator should also be silent and battery-operated. In addition to the calculator, candidates are provided with a pencil and a single sheet of paper. The testing centre will also provide an NEC code book for reference during the exam.
The Journeyman Electrician exam is a significant milestone for those in the electrical trade. It is usually required by the state or local municipality for anyone who wishes to work as an electrician. To be eligible for the exam, most states and local governments require candidates to have working experience as an electrician for a certain period.
The exam assesses a candidate's ability to perform various mathematical calculations related to electrical work. These include load calculations, voltage drops, and wire sizing. A strong grasp of electrical calculations is crucial for ensuring effective and safe electrical installations. Therefore, candidates must prepare thoroughly and understand electrical theory, code requirements, and practical applications to pass the exam.
Some test providers may offer the exam in languages other than English, such as Spanish. However, it is predominantly offered in English. Employers use the test results to evaluate a candidate's readiness for journeyman-level work.
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$9.99

Calculators with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality are prohibited
For those in the electrical trade, becoming a licensed journeyman electrician is a significant achievement. A journeyman electrician is at the second major stage of an electrician's career, after the apprentice stage. To become a licensed journeyman electrician, one must pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam. This exam is usually required by the state or local municipality to be able to work as an electrician in a particular area.
The Journeyman Electrician Exam includes Electrical Calculations Questions, which assess the candidate's ability to perform various mathematical calculations related to electrical work, such as load calculations, voltage drops, and wire sizing. A strong grasp of electrical calculations is essential for effective and safe electrical installations.
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Calculators with infrared data ports must be covered with duct tape
When it comes to taking the Journeyman Electrician exam, there are specific rules regarding the type of calculator you can use. While most test providers allow the use of a basic calculator, programmable calculators are generally not permitted. This is because you would be at an advantage for electrical calculations. In the US, when taking tests through PCI, they provide you with a calculator, so you are not allowed to bring your own.
However, for those taking the California Journeyman Electrician Exam, you are permitted to bring your own calculator, as long as it is a non-programmable, basic calculator. If your calculator has infrared data ports, these must be covered with duct tape to prevent any possibility of data transfer during the exam. This is a standard precaution for any exam that allows the use of calculators with data transfer capabilities.
It is important to note that while calculators may be permitted, other electronic devices are usually prohibited. For example, cell phones, smart watches, and other electronic devices are typically not allowed during the Journeyman Electrician exam. Therefore, it is crucial to check the specific rules and requirements for the exam you are taking to ensure you are compliant with the permitted and prohibited items.
In summary, if you are taking an exam that allows the use of a calculator, ensure it is a basic, non-programmable model. If your calculator has infrared data ports, cover them with duct tape to comply with exam regulations.
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Accessible calculators are allowed with prior authorization
The rules and requirements for permitted calculators on the Journeyman Electrician exam vary depending on the specific test and location. However, here is some general information about accessible calculators:
Accessible calculators, such as audio/"talking" or Braille calculators, are typically allowed on exams with prior authorization. It is important to check the specific rules and requirements for the Journeyman Electrician exam, as the rules may vary. In some cases, you may need to seek authorization from the test coordinator or the organization administering the test, such as ACT for the ACT® test.
To ensure that your accessible calculator is permitted, it may be necessary to modify it in certain ways. For example, calculators that can hold programs or documents must have all documents and programs removed, especially those with computer algebra system (CAS) functionality. Calculators with paper tape must have the tape removed, and calculators that make noise must have the sound turned off. If your calculator has an infrared data port, it must be completely covered with heavy opaque material, such as duct tape or electrician's tape. Calculators with power cords must have the cords removed, and built-in or downloaded CAS functionality is prohibited.
It is always a good idea to bring a backup calculator and/or extra batteries in case your primary calculator fails during the exam. Additionally, you may want to bring a calculator that you regularly use or one that you are already familiar with, as long as it is permitted. It is also important to check that your calculator is working and fully charged or has reliable batteries.
Please note that sharing calculators during the exam is usually not permitted, and testing staff may not provide them to examinees. So, make sure to bring your own permitted calculator and follow any specific instructions or modifications required for accessible calculators.
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Frequently asked questions
You can bring a basic calculator without advanced features or internet connectivity. Scientific calculators are not usually allowed as they give you an advantage for electrical calculations.
The exam is required by the state or local municipality to be able to work as an electrician in a particular area. It certifies that you have the skills and knowledge needed to perform your job with public and consumer safety in mind.
Topics covered include alternating and direct current behaviour, understanding electrical circuits, and the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance. The exam is rooted in the National Electrical Code (NEC).











































