Are you preparing to take the Minnesota 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 Minnesota Journeyman Electrical Exam, you must meet these key requirements:

  • Be at least 17 years old
  • Complete 48 months (8,000 hours) of qualifying electrical work experience, including
    • Minimum 24 months (4,000 hours) of wiring and installation experience
    • Up to 24 months (4,000 hours) credit for maintenance and repair work
    • Up to 12 months credit for approved post-high school electrical courses
    • Additional experience categories with specific limits:
      • Line work (max 3 months)
      • Elevator installation (max 6 months)
      • Technology circuits/systems (max 6 months)
      • Process control circuits/systems (max 12 months)

Important Note: All work experience must be verified through proper documentation using the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry's Work Experience Verification Form.

Application Process

  1. Gather your work experience documentation
  2. Submit your exam application through the iMS online system
  3. Pay the $50 examination fee
  4. Receive approval notification from DLI
  5. Schedule your exam at an approved testing location

Exam Format and Content

The Minnesota Journeyman Electrical Exam consists of:

  • Duration: 5.5 hours
  • Number of Questions: 80
  • Passing Score: 70%

The state of Minnesota does not provide a breakdown of the number of questions on the exam per category but based on our assessment, these topics will be tested:

General Requirements and Fundamentals: Familiarity with NEC rules, the role of authority, and mandatory/permissive material, applicable across all license types.

Wiring and Protection: Includes identification, connection, grounding, and overcurrent protection of circuits, with specific focus on branch circuits, grounded conductors, and receptacle requirements.

Wiring Methods and Materials: Encompasses proper raceway and conductor installation, protection from physical damage, grounding and bonding, and securing of boxes and raceways.

Special Equipment and Occupancies: Covers hazardous locations, healthcare facilities, temporary installations, and specialized structures (e.g., pools, RV parks, carnivals).

Equipment for General Use: Installation and specifications for appliances, luminaires, transformers, motors, and heating equipment, as well as protective measures.

Applied Electrical Theory: Emphasizes essential electrical theories, Ohm’s and Watt’s laws, circuit characteristics, motor/transformer connections, troubleshooting, and power factor calculations.

Special Systems: Emergency and standby power systems, fire alarm and communication systems, and calculations for various setups based on NEC tables and cross-references.

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Testing Locations

Exams are administered at multiple locations throughout Minnesota, including:

  • St. Paul (DLI office) - Weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
  • Bemidji
  • Detroit Lakes
  • Duluth
  • Mankato
  • Rochester
  • St. Cloud
  • Wilmar
  • Winona

Study Resources and Materials

Required Materials for Exam Day:

  • Current National Electrical Code (NEC) book
    • Must be a clean copy without excessive notes or tabs
    • Only permanent tabs from the publisher are allowed
  • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • Basic calculator (non-programmable)

What's Not Allowed:

  • Cell phones or smart devices
  • Reference materials other than the NEC
  • Programmable calculators
  • Personal notes or study guides

Exam Day Tips

  1. Arrive 30 minutes early to your testing location
  2. Bring all required materials and identification
  3. Dress comfortably and in layers
  4. Use your time wisely during the 5.5-hour exam period
  5. Review all questions carefully before submitting

Post-Exam Process

After completing the exam:

  • Results will be provided upon completion
  • If you pass:
    • Apply for your Journeyman license
    • Pay the licensing fee ($53)
    • Complete required continuing education (16 hours every 2 years)
  • If you don't pass:
    • Review areas needing improvement
    • Reschedule exam (additional fee required)
    • No mandatory waiting period between attempts

Maintaining Your License

Once licensed, remember:

  • Licenses expire every two years
  • Requires 16 hours of continuing education per renewal period
    • Minimum 12 hours must relate to the National Electrical Code
  • Current renewal fee is $53 ($20 late fee if expired)
  • Must maintain accurate contact information with DLI

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. Take practice exams under timed conditions
  5. Join study groups or take prep courses if available
  6. Review your Experience Verification Forms to ensure all hours are properly documented

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 before your test date.

Additional Resources

For more information or assistance:

  • Contact Minnesota DLI: dli.license@state.mn.us
  • Phone: 651-284-5034
  • Website: www.dli.mn.gov

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