Are you preparing to take the California 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.

How to Obtain Certification

Certification Pathways

Electrician Trainee Path

Requirements:

  1. Enroll in a state-recognized school
  2. Work directly supervised by a certified electrician
  3. One trainee per supervisor limit
  4. Accumulate 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience
  5. Complete 720 hours of related instruction
  6. Process:
    • Register as trainee
    • Complete required hours and instruction
    • Apply for exam
    • Pass exam to work as electrician

Registered Apprentice Path

  1. Exempt from certification under state law
  2. May take exam in final year of apprenticeship if required for graduation
  3. After passing exam and completing apprenticeship:
    • Can work as certified electrician
    • Must work for contractor with Class C-10 license

Experience Verification Path (8,000 Hours)

Required hours must come from two or more categories:


Application Process

  1. Obtain and complete application from DLSE
  2. Submit completed application package to:
    • Department of Industrial Relations
    • PO Box 511286
    • Los Angeles, CA 90051-7841
    • Include all required documentation and fees
  3. Wait for eligibility notice from DLSE
    • If approved, you'll receive instructions for exam scheduling
    • If denied, DLSE will notify you of missing elements needed for approval
  4. Schedule exam through PSI
    • Online: www.psiexams.com
    • Phone: (888) 818-5831
    • Location: PSI Services LLC
    • 3210 E Tropicana
    • Las Vegas, NV 89121

Required Documentation

  1. Application Form
  2. Experience Verification:
    • Social Security Administration Employment History Report (Form SSA-7050)
    • Original notarized employer documentation
    • Or apprenticeship certificate
    • Military records (DD-214 and VMET) if applicable

Fees

  • Application fee: $75 (non-refundable)
  • Examination fee: $100
  • Total: $175

Exam Format and Content

The California General Electrician exam consists of:

  • 100 questions
  • 4 hours and 30 minutes testing time
  • Minimum passing score: 70%

Content Outline

Testing Locations and Scheduling

  • Exams administered through PSI Services
  • Multiple testing locations throughout California
  • Must take exam within one year of eligibility approval
  • 60-day waiting period required between failed attempts

Exam Day Procedures

  1. Required Identification
    • Valid government-issued photo ID
    • Name must match exactly with application
  2. Arrival Time
    • Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled time
    • Late arrivals not admitted
    • No refunds for missed appointments
  3. Permitted Items
    • Non-programmable calculator
    • Basic examination supplies provided
  4. Prohibited Items
    • Cell phones
    • Reference materials
    • Study guides
    • Personal belongings
    • Smart watches/electronic devices

Tips for Success

  1. Study Strategy
    • Review NEC code thoroughly
    • Focus on installation requirements
    • Practice calculations
    • Take sample exams
    • Study safety regulations
  2. During the Exam
    • Read questions carefully
    • Manage time effectively
    • Mark questions for review
    • Double-check calculations
    • Answer all questions
  3. Test-Taking Tips
    • Read question before looking at answers
    • Eliminate obviously wrong answers
    • Don't change answers unless certain
    • Watch for key words like "except" or "not"

Post-Exam Process

  • Results provided immediately upon completion
  • Must score 70% or higher to pass
  • If you pass:
    • Certification card mailed within 2 weeks
  • If you fail:
    • Must wait 60 days to retest
    • Submit retest application with fee
    • Review diagnostic report

Additional Resources

For specific questions about:

  • Application status: Contact DLSE at (510) 286-3900
  • Exam scheduling: Contact PSI at (888) 818-5831
  • Email: ECUINFO@dir.ca.gov

Renewal Requirements

Once certified:

  • Must renew every 3 years
  • Requires 32 hours of continuing education
  • Must complete 2,000 hours of work experience
  • $100 renewal fee if current
  • $200 fee if expired (requires reexamination)

Remember, thorough preparation and understanding of electrical theory, code requirements, and practical applications are key to passing the exam. Take advantage of all available resources and give yourself adequate time to study before your test date.

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