Journeyman Electrician Licensing Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Before working on electrical equipment, what must a qualified electrician do first?

Put on rubber-soled shoes
Verify the circuit is de-energized using a proper voltage tester (Correct answer)
Turn off all lights in the area
Notify the utility company

Correct answer: Verify the circuit is de-energized using a proper voltage tester

NFPA 70E and OSHA require verification of de-energized state using an appropriate voltage-testing device before performing electrical work.

Question 2: According to the NEC, what color must the grounded (neutral) conductor be identified as?

White or gray (Correct answer)
Green
Bare copper
Black

Correct answer: White or gray

The NEC requires the grounded (neutral) conductor to be white or gray for identification.

Question 3: Per NEC 250.52(A)(3), a concrete-encased grounding electrode must contain at least how much bare copper conductor or rebar encased in the concrete?

15 feet
25 feet
10 feet
20 feet (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 20 feet

NEC 250.52(A)(3) requires at least 20 feet of bare copper conductor or rebar encased within a concrete foundation to qualify as a concrete-encased electrode.

Question 4: What does a contactor do in a motor control circuit?

Provides overload protection
Measures motor power factor
Provides short circuit protection
Electrically switches the motor power circuit on and off (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Electrically switches the motor power circuit on and off

A contactor is an electrically operated switch (controlled by a low-voltage coil) used to switch the high-power motor circuit on and off.

Question 5: What is 'energized electrical work' as defined by NFPA 70E?

Any work that requires running new wiring
Testing a circuit with a voltmeter
Installation of new electrical equipment
Work performed on or near live parts that have not been placed in an electrically safe work condition (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Work performed on or near live parts that have not been placed in an electrically safe work condition

Energized electrical work is any task performed on or near conductors or circuit parts that have not been de-energized and verified safe.

Question 6: Per NEC Table 250.66, what is the maximum copper grounding electrode conductor size required regardless of how large the service entrance conductors are?

4/0 AWG copper
2/0 AWG copper
250 kcmil copper
3/0 AWG copper (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 3/0 AWG copper

NEC Table 250.66 caps the required grounding electrode conductor at 3/0 AWG copper, even for very large or paralleled service conductors.

Question 7: A NEMA 4X enclosure provides protection against which of the following?

Explosive atmospheres
Dust only
Water splash and corrosion (Correct answer)
High-voltage surges

Correct answer: Water splash and corrosion

A NEMA 4X enclosure is designed to protect against water splash, dust, and corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor and food processing environments.

Question 8: Which NEC table is used to determine the minimum size of a grounding electrode conductor based on the size of the service entrance conductors?

Table 250.52
Table 310.16
Table 250.122
Table 250.66 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Table 250.66

NEC Table 250.66 cross-references service entrance conductor size to the minimum required grounding electrode conductor size.

Question 9: What is the primary purpose of bonding metallic components together in an electrical system?

To increase resistance in the fault current path
To increase the voltage level throughout the circuit
To establish electrical continuity so all metal parts remain at the same potential (Correct answer)
To reduce the ampacity requirements of conductors

Correct answer: To establish electrical continuity so all metal parts remain at the same potential

Bonding connects metallic parts to maintain equal potential between them and provides a low-impedance path for fault current to operate overcurrent devices.

Question 10: A transformer has a primary voltage of 480V and a turns ratio of 4:1. What is the secondary voltage?

120V (Correct answer)
1920V
240V
60V

Correct answer: 120V

Secondary voltage = Primary voltage / turns ratio = 480 / 4 = 120V.

Question 11: What is the primary purpose of using liquid-tight flexible metal conduit (LFMC)?

To reduce material costs
To allow movement and vibration while maintaining a watertight seal (Correct answer)
To reduce voltage drop
To increase current-carrying capacity

Correct answer: To allow movement and vibration while maintaining a watertight seal

LFMC is used where flexibility is needed and moisture protection is required, such as connections to HVAC equipment.

Question 12: What is the minimum conductor size required for a ground ring grounding electrode per NEC 250.52(A)(4)?

6 AWG bare copper
1/0 AWG bare copper
4 AWG bare copper
2 AWG bare copper (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2 AWG bare copper

NEC 250.52(A)(4) requires a ground ring to consist of at least 2 AWG bare copper conductor encircling the building or structure.

Question 13: What size knockout is required in an electrical box for 3/4-inch conduit?

1/2 inch
3/4 inch (Correct answer)
1-1/4 inch
1 inch

Correct answer: 3/4 inch

A 3/4-inch conduit requires a 3/4-inch knockout in the electrical box to maintain proper fitting.

Question 14: What NEC article governs the installation of electric vehicle charging systems?

Article 700
Article 625 (Correct answer)
Article 422
Article 410

Correct answer: Article 625

NEC Article 625 covers all aspects of electric vehicle charging system installations.

Question 15: What is the purpose of an equipment grounding conductor (EGC)?

To carry return current from loads to the source
To provide a low-impedance path for fault current to operate overcurrent devices (Correct answer)
To reduce voltage drop in branch circuits
To stabilize voltage fluctuations

Correct answer: To provide a low-impedance path for fault current to operate overcurrent devices

The EGC provides a low-impedance fault current path back to the source, causing the overcurrent device to trip and clear the fault.

Question 16: Which wiring method is specifically designed for use in wet or damp locations exposed to weather?

NM cable
AC cable
FMC
UF cable (Correct answer)

Correct answer: UF cable

Underground feeder (UF) cable is designed for direct burial and wet or damp locations, unlike standard NM cable.

Question 17: What is the minimum size service entrance conductor required for a single-family dwelling per the NEC?

1/0 AWG copper
6 AWG copper
2 AWG copper
4 AWG copper (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 4 AWG copper

NEC 230.79 requires a minimum 100-ampere service for single-family dwellings, which corresponds to 4 AWG copper for service entrance conductors.

Question 18: What is the RMS voltage of US standard household current if the peak voltage is approximately 170V?

120V (Correct answer)
170V
155V
85V

Correct answer: 120V

RMS voltage equals peak voltage multiplied by 0.707, so 170 × 0.707 ≈ 120V.

Question 19: According to the NEC, what minimum size copper conductor is required for a 20-ampere branch circuit?

8 AWG
14 AWG
12 AWG (Correct answer)
10 AWG

Correct answer: 12 AWG

The NEC requires a minimum of 12 AWG copper for a 20-ampere branch circuit per Table 310.16.

Question 20: What is the frequency of standard AC power in the United States?

50 Hz
240 Hz
60 Hz (Correct answer)
120 Hz

Correct answer: 60 Hz

The US electrical grid operates at 60 Hz, meaning AC voltage completes 60 cycles per second.

Question 21: What is the maximum conduit fill percentage allowed for one conductor in a conduit per NEC Chapter 9?

40%
60%
31%
53% (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 53%

NEC Chapter 9, Table 1 allows 53% conduit fill when only one conductor is installed.

Question 22: What OSHA standard covers electrical safety requirements for general industry?

29 CFR 1910.303 (Correct answer)
29 CFR 1910.132
29 CFR 1926.400
29 CFR 1910.269

Correct answer: 29 CFR 1910.303

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.303 through 1910.399 covers electrical safety standards for general industry workplaces.

Question 23: How do you reverse the direction of a three-phase induction motor?

Reverse the grounding conductor
Swap any single hot leg with the neutral
Interchange any two of the three phase conductors (Correct answer)
Change the motor control transformer tap

Correct answer: Interchange any two of the three phase conductors

Reversing any two of the three-phase conductors reverses the rotating magnetic field direction, which reverses motor rotation.

Question 24: According to NEC 250.119, which of the following correctly identifies an equipment grounding conductor?

Orange or blue insulation
Green, green with yellow stripe, or bare (Correct answer)
White or gray insulation
Black or red insulation

Correct answer: Green, green with yellow stripe, or bare

NEC 250.119 requires equipment grounding conductors to be identified by green insulation, green with yellow stripe, or left bare.

Question 25: What type of motor uses both a start winding and a run winding?

Synchronous motor
Single-phase split-phase motor (Correct answer)
Three-phase induction motor
DC shunt motor

Correct answer: Single-phase split-phase motor

A single-phase split-phase motor uses a start winding (with higher resistance) to create the phase shift needed for starting torque.

Question 26: Which of the following best describes inductance in an electrical circuit?

Dissipation of electrical energy
Opposition to change in voltage
Opposition to change in current (Correct answer)
Storage of electrical charge

Correct answer: Opposition to change in current

Inductance is the property of a conductor that opposes changes in current flow, measured in henries.

Question 27: What is the voltage threshold above which NFPA 70E considers electrical work potentially hazardous?

50V AC (Correct answer)
240V AC
12V DC
120V AC

Correct answer: 50V AC

NFPA 70E establishes 50 volts AC as the threshold at which electrical shock becomes a significant hazard requiring safety precautions.

Question 28: What is the purpose of a transfer switch in an electrical system?

To step up voltage for distribution
To convert DC power to AC power
To measure and monitor power quality
To transfer load between two power sources such as utility and generator (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To transfer load between two power sources such as utility and generator

A transfer switch safely switches electrical loads from the utility supply to a generator or alternate power source.

Question 29: Two resistors of 6 ohms each are connected in parallel. What is the total resistance?

3 ohms (Correct answer)
12 ohms
6 ohms
1 ohm

Correct answer: 3 ohms

For two equal resistors in parallel, RT = R/2 = 6/2 = 3 ohms.

Question 30: What is 'locked rotor current' (LRC) in a motor?

The high inrush current drawn when the motor shaft cannot rotate at startup (Correct answer)
The current drawn when the motor runs at full speed
The current when the motor runs with no load
The current after the motor reaches operating temperature

Correct answer: The high inrush current drawn when the motor shaft cannot rotate at startup

Locked rotor current is the maximum current a motor draws at standstill (when the shaft is held or before it begins to turn).

Question 31: Per NEC Table 250.122, what is the minimum size copper equipment grounding conductor required for a circuit protected by a 20-ampere overcurrent device?

10 AWG
14 AWG
16 AWG
12 AWG (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 12 AWG

NEC Table 250.122 specifies that a 20-ampere overcurrent device requires a minimum 12 AWG copper equipment grounding conductor.

Question 32: What is the minimum clearance required between service drop conductors and a rooftop that is readily accessible?

8 feet (Correct answer)
6 feet
10 feet
3 feet

Correct answer: 8 feet

NEC 230.24(A) requires a minimum of 8 feet clearance above a rooftop that is readily accessible to pedestrians and persons on the roof.

Question 33: In a series circuit, how does total resistance compare to individual resistors?

Total resistance equals the largest resistor
Total resistance is the sum of all resistors (Correct answer)
Total resistance is the average of all resistors
Total resistance is less than the smallest resistor

Correct answer: Total resistance is the sum of all resistors

In a series circuit, total resistance equals the sum of all individual resistances (RT = R1 + R2 + R3...).

Question 34: What is the minimum length for a ground rod?

6 feet
4 feet
8 feet (Correct answer)
10 feet

Correct answer: 8 feet

NEC 250.52(A)(5) requires a ground rod to be at least 8 feet long when driven into the earth.

Question 35: For a separately derived system such as a step-down transformer, where must the system bonding jumper be installed per NEC 250.30(A)(1)?

At the remote panelboard served by the transformer
At the first overcurrent device downstream of the transformer
At the source of the separately derived system (Correct answer)
At the transformer primary terminals

Correct answer: At the source of the separately derived system

NEC 250.30(A)(1) requires the system bonding jumper to be installed at the source of the separately derived system to establish the neutral-to-ground bond.

Question 36: What is the reactance of a capacitor called?

Impedance
Inductive reactance
Capacitive reactance (Correct answer)
Conductance

Correct answer: Capacitive reactance

The opposition a capacitor provides to AC current is called capacitive reactance (Xc), measured in ohms.

Question 37: Under the NEC, AFCI protection is now required in which residential room?

Utility room
Bedroom (Correct answer)
Bathroom
Garage

Correct answer: Bedroom

AFCI protection has been required in bedrooms since the 1999 NEC and has since expanded to most living areas.

Question 38: What is the maximum rating of an inverse time circuit breaker used to protect a motor branch circuit per the NEC?

115% of motor FLC
125% of motor FLC
250% of motor FLC (Correct answer)
150% of motor FLC

Correct answer: 250% of motor FLC

NEC Table 430.52 allows inverse time (standard) circuit breakers to be sized up to 250% of the motor's full-load current for short-circuit protection.

Question 39: What is the purpose of a motor starter?

To measure motor power consumption
To convert AC power to DC for the motor
To increase motor speed above nameplate rating
To limit inrush current and provide overload protection when starting a motor (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To limit inrush current and provide overload protection when starting a motor

A motor starter limits the high inrush current during startup and provides thermal overload protection during operation.

Question 40: What is the purpose of a GFCI device from a safety perspective?

To protect equipment from voltage surges
To prevent fires caused by overloaded circuits
To measure total harmonic distortion
To protect people from electric shock by detecting ground faults as small as 5 milliamps (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To protect people from electric shock by detecting ground faults as small as 5 milliamps

GFCIs detect ground fault currents as low as 4-6 milliamps and trip within milliseconds to prevent fatal electric shock.

Question 41: What is the minimum insulation class rating for rubber gloves used on 480V systems?

Class 0 (1000V) (Correct answer)
Class 2 (17000V)
Class 00 (500V)
Class 1 (7500V)

Correct answer: Class 0 (1000V)

Class 0 rubber insulating gloves are rated for 1000V and are the minimum appropriate choice for work on 480V systems.

Question 42: Per NEC 250.56, if a single ground rod electrode has a resistance to earth exceeding what value, a supplemental electrode must be added?

100 ohms
25 ohms (Correct answer)
15 ohms
50 ohms

Correct answer: 25 ohms

NEC 250.56 requires a supplemental grounding electrode whenever a single rod electrode has a measured resistance exceeding 25 ohms.

Question 43: What is the purpose of a control transformer in a motor control circuit?

To step up voltage for the motor
To filter harmonic distortion from the motor
To provide a lower, safer voltage (typically 120V) for the control circuit (Correct answer)
To store energy during power interruptions

Correct answer: To provide a lower, safer voltage (typically 120V) for the control circuit

A control transformer steps down the line voltage to a safer, lower voltage (usually 120V) for the control circuit components.

Question 44: What is the formula for calculating the area of a circle (used for conduit fill calculations)?

A = πr
A = πr² (Correct answer)
A = πd
A = 2πr

Correct answer: A = πr²

The area of a circle is π times the radius squared (A = πr²), which is essential for conduit fill calculations.

Question 45: What is the nameplate 'service factor' of a motor?

The insulation temperature class of the windings
The efficiency rating of the motor
The number of starts per hour permitted
The multiplier indicating how much above nameplate load the motor can handle continuously (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The multiplier indicating how much above nameplate load the motor can handle continuously

The service factor is a multiplier that indicates how much above the rated load a motor can operate continuously without damage.

Question 46: What is the function of a thermal overload relay in a motor control circuit?

To protect the motor windings from excessive heat due to overload (Correct answer)
To start the motor remotely
To reverse motor direction
To vary motor speed

Correct answer: To protect the motor windings from excessive heat due to overload

A thermal overload relay monitors motor current and trips to disconnect the motor if it draws excessive current that could overheat and damage the windings.

Question 47: According to the NEC, what is the maximum voltage drop allowed for branch circuits serving general lighting and receptacle loads?

5%
3% (Correct answer)
2%
1%

Correct answer: 3%

The NEC recommends a maximum of 3% voltage drop for branch circuits to ensure adequate power delivery.

Question 48: What size fuse or breaker is typically used to protect a 200-amp service entrance?

250 amps
200 amps (Correct answer)
175 amps
150 amps

Correct answer: 200 amps

A 200-amp service is protected by a 200-amp main overcurrent device that matches the rated capacity of the service.

Question 49: What is the impedance of a circuit with 8 ohms resistance and 6 ohms reactance?

10 ohms (Correct answer)
14 ohms
7 ohms
2 ohms

Correct answer: 10 ohms

Impedance Z = √(R² + X²) = √(64 + 36) = √100 = 10 ohms.

Question 50: What is the primary advantage of a wye (star) motor winding configuration?

Higher efficiency at full load than delta
Higher starting torque than delta
Lower operating voltage requirement
Reduced starting current and lower starting torque (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reduced starting current and lower starting torque

In wye-start configurations, voltage per winding is reduced to 58%, lowering starting current to approximately 33% of delta-start current.

Question 51: Per the NEC, GFCI protection is required for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles in which location?

Hallways
Bedrooms
Bathrooms (Correct answer)
Living rooms

Correct answer: Bathrooms

The NEC mandates GFCI protection for all receptacles in bathrooms due to the proximity of water.

Question 52: A circuit has a voltage of 120V and a resistance of 20 ohms. What is the current?

8 amps
4 amps
6 amps (Correct answer)
2 amps

Correct answer: 6 amps

Using Ohm's Law, I = V/R = 120/20 = 6 amps.

Question 53: What OSHA citation is typically issued when an employer's violation of a safety standard could cause death or serious physical harm?

Other-than-serious violation
Serious violation (Correct answer)
De minimis violation
Willful violation

Correct answer: Serious violation

OSHA issues a serious violation citation when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from the hazardous condition.

Question 54: Per the NEC, where must the grounding electrode conductor connect to a ground rod?

Only at the midpoint
At the top of the rod only
Within the first 12 inches of the top (Correct answer)
Anywhere along the rod

Correct answer: Within the first 12 inches of the top

The grounding electrode conductor must be connected within the upper 12 inches (top) of the ground rod per NEC 250.70.

Question 55: Which NEC article contains all of the requirements for grounding and bonding of electrical systems and equipment?

Article 250 (Correct answer)
Article 300
Article 230
Article 240

Correct answer: Article 250

NEC Article 250 is dedicated entirely to grounding and bonding requirements and is one of the most referenced articles on electrician licensing exams.

Question 56: What is the primary purpose of a grounding electrode system?

To connect the electrical system to earth to stabilize voltage and dissipate lightning and transient surges (Correct answer)
To increase the impedance of the neutral conductor
To provide the normal current return path from loads back to the source
To limit fault current magnitude in branch circuits

Correct answer: To connect the electrical system to earth to stabilize voltage and dissipate lightning and transient surges

The grounding electrode system connects the electrical system to earth to stabilize voltages to ground and safely dissipate lightning and transient overvoltages.

Question 57: What is the minimum size copper grounding electrode conductor required for a service with 2/0 AWG copper service entrance conductors per NEC Table 250.66?

4 AWG (Correct answer)
6 AWG
1/0 AWG
2 AWG

Correct answer: 4 AWG

Per NEC Table 250.66, service entrance conductors in the 1/0–3/0 AWG range require a minimum 4 AWG copper grounding electrode conductor.

Question 58: What is a 'separately derived system'?

A feeder that has its own dedicated panel
A system with no direct electrical connection to the supply side conductors of another system (Correct answer)
Any circuit over 50 amps
A circuit protected by a GFCI breaker

Correct answer: A system with no direct electrical connection to the supply side conductors of another system

A separately derived system, such as a transformer secondary, has no direct metallic connection to the supply conductors of another system.

Question 59: What unit is used to measure electrical resistance?

Ampere
Volt
Ohm (Correct answer)
Watt

Correct answer: Ohm

Electrical resistance is measured in ohms (Ω), named after physicist Georg Simon Ohm.

Question 60: What does Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) state?

Current is the same throughout a series circuit
The sum of all currents entering a node equals the sum leaving it (Correct answer)
The sum of voltage drops equals the source voltage
Resistance increases with temperature

Correct answer: The sum of all currents entering a node equals the sum leaving it

KCL states that the algebraic sum of all currents entering and exiting a node must equal zero.

Question 61: What is a 'panelboard' as defined by the NEC?

A transformer vault enclosure
A single- or poly-phase unit for controlling circuits by means of overcurrent devices (Correct answer)
A large switchboard used only in commercial buildings
A meter base assembly provided by the utility

Correct answer: A single- or poly-phase unit for controlling circuits by means of overcurrent devices

A panelboard is a distribution assembly containing overcurrent protective devices and buses that distribute power to branch circuits.

Question 62: What NEC requirement applies to the motor disconnecting means?

It must be rated for 200% of motor FLC
It must be a circuit breaker
It must be fused
It must be in sight from the motor and controller (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It must be in sight from the motor and controller

NEC 430.102 requires the motor disconnecting means to be within sight from the motor location and within sight from the controller.

Question 63: The conductor that runs from the grounding electrode system to the neutral conductor at the service equipment is called the:

Main bonding jumper
Grounding electrode conductor (GEC) (Correct answer)
System bonding jumper
Equipment grounding conductor (EGC)

Correct answer: Grounding electrode conductor (GEC)

The grounding electrode conductor (GEC) connects the grounding electrode system to the neutral bus at the service equipment, linking the electrical system to earth.

Question 64: Per the NEC, what is the minimum headroom clearance required in front of electrical panels?

4 feet
6 feet (Correct answer)
5 feet
6.5 feet

Correct answer: 6 feet

NEC 110.26 requires a minimum of 6 feet 6 inches headroom, but 6 feet is the minimum working clearance at the panel face.

Question 65: What happens when a circuit breaker trips?

It permanently disconnects the circuit
It increases the resistance in the circuit
It reduces voltage to the circuit
It automatically opens the circuit to interrupt overcurrent (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It automatically opens the circuit to interrupt overcurrent

A circuit breaker automatically opens to interrupt current flow when it detects an overload or short circuit condition.

Question 66: What is the primary purpose of equipment grounding in an electrical system?

To improve power factor
To provide a low-impedance fault current path back to the source (Correct answer)
To increase circuit efficiency
To reduce electrical consumption

Correct answer: To provide a low-impedance fault current path back to the source

Equipment grounding provides a low-impedance return path so overcurrent devices trip quickly during a ground fault, protecting people and equipment.

Question 67: Under the NEC, bonding of metal water piping systems is required when the piping is likely to become energized. What is this requirement found in?

Article 350
Article 300
Article 250 (Correct answer)
Article 200

Correct answer: Article 250

NEC Article 250 covers all grounding and bonding requirements, including bonding of metal piping systems.

Question 68: What is the purpose of an Incident Energy Analysis?

To determine the amount of heat energy a worker could be exposed to during an arc flash event (Correct answer)
To measure the power quality of electrical systems
To calculate a building's total electrical demand
To assess the efficiency of motors and transformers

Correct answer: To determine the amount of heat energy a worker could be exposed to during an arc flash event

Incident Energy Analysis calculates the thermal energy (in cal/cm²) a worker could receive at a specific working distance during an arc flash.

Question 69: The main bonding jumper in a service panel connects which two components?

The ungrounded (hot) bus to the neutral bus
The neutral (grounded) bus to the equipment grounding bus and enclosure (Correct answer)
The service entrance conductors to the branch circuit breakers
The grounding electrode directly to the service panel enclosure

Correct answer: The neutral (grounded) bus to the equipment grounding bus and enclosure

The main bonding jumper connects the neutral conductor to the equipment grounding conductor and service enclosure, establishing the required neutral-to-ground bond at the service.

Question 70: Per NEC 250.53(G), what is the minimum depth a ground rod electrode must be driven into the earth?

6 feet
8 feet (Correct answer)
4 feet
10 feet

Correct answer: 8 feet

NEC 250.53(G) requires ground rods to be driven to a depth of at least 8 feet to ensure adequate earth contact.

Question 71: Which wiring method is required in Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations?

NM cable
MC cable
Rigid metal conduit (RMC) or equivalent (Correct answer)
PVC conduit

Correct answer: Rigid metal conduit (RMC) or equivalent

Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations require rigid metal conduit or other approved methods to contain potential ignition sources.

Question 72: Which of the following is specifically prohibited from use as a grounding electrode per NEC 250.52(B)?

Plate electrode buried 30 inches deep
Metal underground gas piping (Correct answer)
Concrete-encased electrode (Ufer ground)
Metal underground water pipe

Correct answer: Metal underground gas piping

NEC 250.52(B)(1) explicitly prohibits metal underground gas piping from being used as a grounding electrode due to the explosion hazard from arcing.

Question 73: What is the safe working voltage of the most commonly required electrician's insulated hand tools?

5000V
120V
480V
1000V (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 1000V

Insulated tools meeting ASTM/IEC standards are rated for use up to 1000V AC to protect against shock.

Question 74: What is the maximum support spacing for rigid metal conduit (RMC) per the NEC?

12 feet
10 feet (Correct answer)
8 feet
5 feet

Correct answer: 10 feet

The NEC requires RMC to be supported at least every 10 feet and within a certain distance of boxes and fittings.

Question 75: A 240V, 5kW electric heater draws how many amps?

20.8 amps (Correct answer)
10.4 amps
41.6 amps
5 amps

Correct answer: 20.8 amps

Using I = P/V = 5000/240 ≈ 20.8 amps.

Question 76: At what minimum depth below grade must a ground ring electrode be buried per NEC 250.52(A)(4)?

24 inches
36 inches
30 inches (Correct answer)
18 inches

Correct answer: 30 inches

NEC 250.52(A)(4) requires the ground ring conductor to be buried at least 30 inches (750 mm) below the earth's surface.

Question 77: If a circuit has apparent power of 5 kVA and true power of 4 kW, what is the power factor?

0.8 (Correct answer)
1.25
0.6
0.5

Correct answer: 0.8

Power factor = True power / Apparent power = 4 kW / 5 kVA = 0.8.

Question 78: Per the NEC, overload protection for a motor must trip at what maximum percentage of the motor's full-load current for motors with a 1.15 service factor?

100%
125% (Correct answer)
140%
115%

Correct answer: 125%

NEC 430.32 requires overload devices to trip at no more than 125% of the motor's nameplate full-load current for motors with a 1.15 service factor.

Question 79: According to the NEC, motor branch circuit conductors must be sized at what minimum percentage of the motor's full-load current (FLC)?

150%
125% (Correct answer)
100%
115%

Correct answer: 125%

NEC 430.22 requires motor branch circuit conductors to be sized at no less than 125% of the motor's full-load current.

Question 80: What is the maximum number of current-carrying conductors permitted in a single conduit before derating is required under the NEC?

6
4
3 (Correct answer)
2

Correct answer: 3

The NEC allows up to 3 current-carrying conductors before ampacity derating applies per NEC 310.15(C).

Question 81: What is the total power consumed by a 120V circuit with 10 amps at a power factor of 0.8?

1200 watts
1500 watts
800 watts
960 watts (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 960 watts

True power P = V × I × PF = 120 × 10 × 0.8 = 960 watts.

Question 82: What is the NEC requirement for the minimum working space depth in front of a 120/240V residential panel?

18 inches
36 inches
24 inches
30 inches (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 30 inches

NEC 110.26(A)(1) requires a minimum working space of 3 feet (36 inches) in front of electrical equipment up to 150V to ground.

Question 83: What is the maximum number of 90-degree bends allowed in a single conduit run between pull points?

4 (Correct answer)
3
6
2

Correct answer: 4

The NEC limits conduit runs to a maximum of 360 degrees of total bends (equivalent to four 90-degree bends) between pull points.

Question 84: Per NEC 250.53(B), what is the minimum separation required between two ground rod electrodes when more than one is installed?

6 feet (Correct answer)
4 feet
8 feet
2 feet

Correct answer: 6 feet

NEC 250.53(B) requires ground rods to be spaced at least 6 feet apart so each rod contacts independent soil and resistance zones do not overlap.

Question 85: In a parallel circuit, what happens to total resistance as more resistors are added?

It increases
It doubles
It stays the same
It decreases (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It decreases

Adding more resistors in parallel provides additional paths for current, reducing overall resistance.

Question 86: What is the purpose of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures?

To prevent accidental energization of equipment during maintenance (Correct answer)
To secure tools at the end of the workday
To tag circuits that are overloaded
To lock electrical panels to prevent unauthorized access

Correct answer: To prevent accidental energization of equipment during maintenance

LOTO procedures ensure that hazardous energy sources are isolated and locked out before workers perform maintenance or servicing.

Question 87: What is the formula for calculating electrical power?

P = V × I (Correct answer)
P = V + I
P = I / V
P = V / I

Correct answer: P = V × I

Power (P) in watts equals voltage (V) multiplied by current (I), expressed as P = V × I.

Question 88: Which conductor insulation type is rated for use in wet locations and direct burial?

THHN
TW
XHHW-2 (Correct answer)
THW

Correct answer: XHHW-2

XHHW-2 insulation is rated for use in wet locations and is suitable for direct burial applications.

Question 89: Which of the following best describes 'qualified person' under OSHA electrical standards?

Someone who has passed an OSHA safety course
Anyone with a general contractor's license
Any licensed electrician regardless of training
Someone who has been trained to work on electrical systems and is aware of the hazards involved (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Someone who has been trained to work on electrical systems and is aware of the hazards involved

OSHA defines a qualified person as one who has received specific training in and has demonstrated skills in the construction and operation of electrical equipment.

Question 90: What is the purpose of a main disconnect in a service entrance panel?

To step down voltage from utility
To provide a means to disconnect all power to the premises (Correct answer)
To measure power consumption
To filter harmonics from the utility

Correct answer: To provide a means to disconnect all power to the premises

The main disconnect provides a single means to de-energize all branch circuits and feeders within the building.

Question 91: What is an arc flash hazard?

A hazard from touching a live wire with bare hands
A sudden release of energy caused by an electrical fault that produces extreme heat and blast pressure (Correct answer)
Overheating of a circuit due to sustained overload
A hazard from static electricity discharge

Correct answer: A sudden release of energy caused by an electrical fault that produces extreme heat and blast pressure

An arc flash is a dangerous electrical explosion that releases intense heat (up to 35,000°F), light, pressure, and molten metal.

Question 92: What does the NFPA 70E standard primarily address?

Utility transmission standards
Electrical safety in the workplace (Correct answer)
Installation requirements for wiring systems
Product listing requirements for electrical equipment

Correct answer: Electrical safety in the workplace

NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace covers safe work practices, PPE requirements, and hazard analysis.

Question 93: In which location is it NOT permissible to connect neutral conductors and equipment grounding conductors together?

At the source of a separately derived system
At the service equipment panel
At a remote subpanel fed from the same service (Correct answer)
At an outdoor transformer secondary used as a separately derived system

Correct answer: At a remote subpanel fed from the same service

Per NEC 250.142(B), neutral and equipment grounding conductors must not be interconnected at remote panelboards supplied from the same service.

Question 94: What is the power factor of a purely resistive circuit?

0.8
0.5
1.0 (Correct answer)
0

Correct answer: 1.0

A purely resistive circuit has a power factor of 1.0 because voltage and current are perfectly in phase.

Question 95: In a motor control circuit, what is a 'holding contact' used for?

To hold the overload relay in a tripped position
To maintain a specific motor speed
To hold the motor shaft in place when stopped
To maintain the starter coil energized after the start button is released (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To maintain the starter coil energized after the start button is released

A holding (or seal-in) contact is an auxiliary contact that keeps the motor starter coil energized after the momentary start button is released.

Question 96: What is the purpose of a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

To control motor speed by varying the frequency of the supply voltage (Correct answer)
To provide backup power during outages
To reduce motor starting current to zero
To convert single-phase power to three-phase

Correct answer: To control motor speed by varying the frequency of the supply voltage

A VFD controls AC motor speed by varying the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor.

Question 97: What does NEMA stand for in the context of motor control enclosures?

National Equipment Maintenance Administration
National Electrical Motor Association
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (Correct answer)
North American Electrical Motor Authority

Correct answer: National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturers Association, which sets standards for motor control enclosure ratings.

Question 98: What is the first step in an arc flash hazard analysis?

Installing arc flash labels on all equipment
Selecting appropriate PPE
Training all workers in arc flash awareness
Collecting electrical system data to determine incident energy levels (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Collecting electrical system data to determine incident energy levels

The first step is collecting single-line diagrams, equipment ratings, and protective device data to calculate incident energy at each location.

Question 99: What NEC article covers the installation of motors, motor circuits, and controllers?

Article 440
Article 410
Article 430 (Correct answer)
Article 450

Correct answer: Article 430

NEC Article 430 covers all aspects of motor circuits including conductors, overcurrent protection, controllers, and disconnecting means.

Question 100: What color is typically used for safety labels indicating an electrical shock hazard?

Yellow and black
Red and black
Blue and white
Orange and black (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Orange and black

Orange and black is the ANSI/OSHA standard color combination for warning labels indicating electrical shock hazards.

Journeyman Electrician Licensing Exam

The Journeyman Electrician exam tests knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC), electrical theory, wiring methods, grounding and bonding, motors, and safety regulations required to obtain a journeyman electrician license.

100

Questions

240 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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