Are you preparing to take the Texas Journeyman Electrical Exam? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the exam process, from eligibility requirements to study tips and exam day procedures.

Eligibility Requirements

Before you can sit for the exam, you must meet these key requirements:

  • Complete at least 7,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed Texas Master Electrician
    • Note: While 7,000 hours qualifies you to take the exam, you'll need 8,000 hours for final licensure
  • Submit verification of your experience using the TDLR Experience Verification Form
    • Each supervising Master Electrician must complete a separate form
    • Forms must detail specific types of work performed and hours completed
  • Submit a completed Journeyman Electrician License Application with the $30 non-refundable fee

Scheduling Your Exam

Once your application is approved, follow these steps to schedule your exam:

  1. Receive approval notification from TDLR
  2. Contact PSI Services (the testing vendor) to schedule your exam:
  3. Pay the $78 examination fee
  4. Choose from multiple testing locations across Texas, including:
    • Austin
    • Dallas
    • Houston
    • San Antonio
    • Fort Worth
    • And many other cities

Exam Format and Content

The Texas Journeyman Electrician Exam consists of:

  • 80 scored items
  • 5 non-scored items (additional 20 minutes provided for these items)
  • 240 minutes (4 hours) testing time
  • Passing score: 70% or higher
  • Examination Fee: $78

Content Outline

Important Note: Unless SPECIFICALLY NOTED in the question, all conductors are to be considered copper.

For guide for all these topics, check out dakotaprep.com/guides

Study Resources and Exam Materials

Required Materials for Exam Day:

  • 2023 National Electrical Code® (NEC) book
    • Must be a soft-bound edition
    • May be highlighted and contain notes made prior to exam
    • May have permanent index tabs from the publisher
  • Valid government-issued ID matching your application information
  • Calculator (non-programmable, silent, battery-operated)

What's Not Allowed:

  • Loose-leaf, spiral-bound, or ring-bound NEC books
  • NEC Handbook
  • Additional papers or notes
  • Homemade or DIY tabs
  • Electronic devices
  • Cell phones
  • Smart watches
  • Personal belongings

Important Exam Day Tips

  1. Arrive 30 minutes early
    • Late arrivals will not be admitted
    • Plan your route to the testing center in advance
  2. Bring Proper Identification
    • Must be government-issued with photo, signature, and date of birth
    • Name must match exactly with your application information
    • Expired ID only accepted with valid Texas DPS temporary permit
  3. Testing Environment
    • No talking with other candidates
    • Breaks are allowed but count against your testing time
    • Personal belongings must be stored in provided secure storage
  4. During the Exam
    • Read each question carefully
    • You can mark questions for review and return to them later
    • Manage your time wisely (240 minutes total)
    • All questions are multiple choice
    • Use your NEC book effectively for code references

Post-Exam Process

  • Results are provided immediately upon completion
  • A score of 70% or higher is required to pass
  • If you pass:
    • Your results will be electronically sent to TDLR
    • Once you've completed your full 8,000 hours, you can receive your license
  • If you don't pass:
    • You'll receive a diagnostic report showing areas for improvement
    • You can retake the exam (additional fee required)
    • No waiting period between attempts

Final Tips for Success

  1. Study systematically through all exam topics
  2. Practice using your NEC book efficiently
  3. Complete practice calculations without a calculator first
  4. Review your Experience Verification Forms to ensure all hours are properly documented
  5. Get familiar with the PSI testing system through their candidate information bulletin
  6. Take care of scheduling, transportation, and required materials well in advance of exam day

Remember, thorough preparation and familiarity with the NEC are key to passing the exam. Take advantage of all available resources and give yourself plenty of time to study and practice before your test date.

‍