NEC Practice Test 2026: 50 Free Questions for Journeyman Exam

You’ve got an exam coming up and you need real practice questions — not a study guide to read, not a textbook chapter to work through. You need to sit down and test yourself against the kind of questions that actually show up on the journeyman electrician exam.

That’s exactly what this page is. Below you’ll find 50 free NEC practice test questions built around the 2023 and 2026 code cycle. They cover the articles and topics that appear most frequently on state journeyman exams: wiring methods, grounding and bonding, branch circuits, overcurrent protection, calculations, and more.

Every question includes the answer and a plain-English explanation citing the exact NEC article that applies. Work through them all, check your weak spots, and then use the app at the bottom to generate as many more as you need before exam day.

What the NEC Journeyman Exam Actually Tests

Before you start answering questions, it helps to know what you’re being tested on. The journeyman electrician exam isn’t just about memorizing code — it tests your ability to apply the NEC to realistic job-site scenarios in a timed setting.

Most state journeyman exams are built around the following NEC article clusters:

NEC Article(s)	Topic	Typical Exam Weight
Article 100	Definitions	5–8%
Articles 110, 200, 210	General requirements, branch circuits	10–15%
Articles 220, 230	Load calculations, services	10–15%
Articles 240, 250	OCPDs, grounding and bonding	15–20%
Articles 300, 310	Wiring methods, conductors	10–15%
Articles 334, 344, 358, 362	Wiring methods (NM, RMC, EMT, ENT)	8–12%
Articles 400–410	Flexible cords, luminaires	5–8%
Articles 430, 440	Motors, HVAC	8–10%
Articles 500–517	Hazardous locations (varies by state)	3–8%
Articles 680, 700–760	Pools, emergency/standby systems	3–6%
NEC Annex C, D	Tables, load calculations	Integrated throughout

Check with your state licensing board to confirm the NEC edition your exam uses. Most states are on the 2020 or 2023 NEC as of 2026, though several have adopted 2026.

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50 NEC Practice Test Questions (2026 Code Cycle)

Work through these at exam pace. Time yourself — most journeyman exams allow 3–4 hours for 80–100 questions, which is roughly 2–3 minutes per question.

Answers and explanations are at the end of each question. Try answering before you look.

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Section 1: Definitions and General Requirements (Articles 100–110)

Question 1: According to NEC Article 100, which of the following best defines a “branch circuit”?

A) Any circuit that originates at the service entrance
B) The circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s)
C) All wiring between the meter and the main panel
D) A circuit supplying power to a single appliance only

Answer: B
Per NEC Article 100, a branch circuit is defined as the circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s). Option A describes a service, Option C is incorrect, and Option D is too narrow — branch circuits can supply multiple outlets.

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Question 2: What is the minimum working space depth required in front of electrical equipment rated 240V and operating at 480V to ground, when there are exposed live parts on both sides?

A) 3 feet
B) 3.5 feet
C) 4 feet
D) 6 feet

Answer: C
Per NEC 110.26(A)(1), Condition 2 applies when there are exposed live parts on one side and grounded parts on the other. For 151–600V equipment, Condition 2 requires 3.5 feet. Condition 3 (exposed live parts on both sides) requires 4 feet for this voltage range. Know all three conditions — they show up repeatedly on the exam.

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Question 3: Which of the following enclosures is rated for use in outdoor, wet locations?

A) NEMA 1
B) NEMA 3R
C) NEMA 4
D) NEMA 12

Answer: C
NEMA 4 enclosures are rated for indoor and outdoor use, including protection against rain, sleet, and hose-directed water. NEMA 3R is weatherproof but not watertight. NEMA 1 is general-purpose indoor only. NEMA 12 is industrial indoor without knockouts. Per NEC Article 110 and NEMA standards — your exam may test NEMA ratings directly.

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Question 4: Per NEC 110.26, the minimum headroom of working spaces about electrical equipment shall be not less than _____ where the equipment is over 6½ feet high.

A) 6 feet
B) 6½ feet
C) 6 feet 6 inches
D) The height of the equipment

Answer: D
Per NEC 110.26(A)(3), the minimum headroom of the working space shall not be less than 6½ feet. Where the electrical equipment exceeds 6½ feet in height, the minimum headroom shall not be less than the height of the equipment. This is a common exam trap — don’t default to 6½ feet when the equipment is taller.

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Question 5: A 120V, 15A branch circuit supplies a single receptacle. The maximum load this receptacle is permitted to carry continuously is:

A) 12A
B) 15A
C) 13.5A
D) 10A

Answer: A
Per NEC 210.21(B)(1), a single receptacle installed on an individual branch circuit shall have an ampere rating of not less than that of the branch circuit. For continuous loads, NEC 210.20(A) limits the load to 80% of the branch circuit rating: 15A × 80% = 12A. This 80% rule is one of the most frequently tested concepts on the journeyman exam.

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Section 2: Branch Circuits and Receptacles (Article 210)

Question 6: A 20A, 120V small appliance branch circuit is required in kitchens per NEC 210.11(C)(1). How many such circuits are required minimum?

A) One
B) Two
C) Three
D) As many as needed for the appliances installed

Answer: B
Per NEC 210.11(C)(1), a minimum of two 20A small appliance branch circuits shall be provided for all receptacle outlets required by NEC 210.52(B) in the kitchen, dining room, pantry, breakfast room, and similar areas. This is tested frequently — two circuits minimum, regardless of kitchen size.

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Question 7: In a dwelling unit, GFCI protection is required for all 125V, 15A and 20A receptacles in which of the following locations?

A) Bathrooms only
B) Bathrooms and garages
C) Bathrooms, garages, outdoors, kitchens, and unfinished basements
D) Any location within 6 feet of a water source

Answer: C
Per NEC 210.8(A), GFCI protection is required in: bathrooms, garages, outdoors, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, kitchens within 6 feet of a sink, boathouses, bathtubs/shower areas, and laundry areas. The 2020 and 2023 NEC expanded GFCI requirements — know the current list, not the 2014 version.

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Question 8: What is the maximum distance between receptacle outlets along a wall in a dwelling unit’s living space per NEC 210.52(A)?

A) 10 feet
B) 12 feet
C) 6 feet
D) 4 feet

Answer: C
Per NEC 210.52(A), receptacle outlets in dwelling units shall be installed so that no point measured horizontally along the floor line in any wall space is more than 6 feet from a receptacle. This means outlets must be spaced no more than 12 feet apart (6 feet from any point means 12 feet between outlets). The “no point is more than 6 feet” phrasing trips many exam candidates.

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Question 9: Arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection is required for 120V, 15A and 20A branch circuits supplying outlets in which areas of a dwelling unit?

A) Kitchens and bathrooms only
B) All areas except bathrooms and unfinished basements
C) Bedrooms only
D) All 120V branch circuits throughout the dwelling

Answer: D
Per NEC 210.12(A) in the 2020 and 2023 NEC, AFCI protection is required for all 120V, 15A and 20A branch circuits supplying outlets or devices installed in all areas of a dwelling unit. Earlier editions required only bedrooms — if your exam is based on an older code cycle, verify which edition applies in your state.

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Question 10: What is the minimum wire gauge permitted for a 20A branch circuit supplying outlets?

A) #14 AWG
B) #12 AWG
C) #10 AWG
D) #8 AWG

Answer: B
Per NEC 210.19(A)(1) and Table 310.16, a 20A branch circuit requires a minimum conductor size of #12 AWG copper (or #10 AWG aluminum). #14 AWG is rated for 15A branch circuits only. Using undersized conductors is a code violation and a fire hazard — the exam tests this frequently.

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Section 3: Load Calculations and Services (Articles 220–230)

Question 11: Using the NEC standard method, what is the general lighting load per square foot for a dwelling unit?

A) 1 VA per square foot
B) 3 VA per square foot
C) 3.5 VA per square foot
D) 5 VA per square foot

Answer: B
Per NEC Table 220.12, the unit load for dwelling units is 3 volt-amperes per square foot. This is used in standard load calculations for sizing service entrance conductors and panels. For a 2,000 sq ft home: 2,000 × 3 = 6,000 VA general lighting load before applying demand factors.

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Question 12: A 200A, 120/240V single-phase service entrance uses what size copper conductor (minimum) per NEC 310.12?

A) 2/0 AWG
B) 3/0 AWG
C) 4/0 AWG
D) 350 kcmil

Answer: B
Per NEC 310.12 (and Table 310.12 in the 2020 NEC), a 200A dwelling service may use 3/0 AWG copper or 250 kcmil aluminum as the ungrounded conductors. This is a simplified sizing table specifically for dwelling services. On the exam, distinguish between using NEC Table 310.12 (dwelling services) versus NEC Table 310.16 (general ampacity).

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Question 13: For a standard load calculation on a dwelling unit, the first 3,000 VA of the calculated load is assessed at what demand factor?

A) 100%
B) 75%
C) 50%
D) 35%

Answer: A
Per NEC 220.42 (Table 220.42), the first 3,000 VA of the total general lighting and receptacle load is applied at 100%. From 3,001 to 120,000 VA, the demand factor drops to 35%. Above 120,000 VA, the factor is 25%. Know this table — load calculation questions are almost guaranteed on the journeyman exam.

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Question 14: What is the minimum service size required for a single-family dwelling unit per NEC 230.79(C)?

A) 60A
B) 100A
C) 150A
D) 200A

Answer: B
Per NEC 230.79(C), the minimum service size for a single-family dwelling shall be 100A, 3-wire. This has been the minimum since the 1978 NEC. The exam may try to trick you into selecting 60A — that’s only for individual branch circuits and small structures, not a single-family dwelling.

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Question 15: Service entrance conductors installed outside the building are considered protected by the service overcurrent device. What is the maximum length of service conductors permitted inside a building before reaching the service disconnecting means?

A) 5 feet
B) 10 feet
C) 25 feet
D) No restriction inside the building

Answer: B
Per NEC 230.6 and 230.70(A)(1), service conductors shall be installed in compliance with NEC 230.70(A), which requires the service disconnecting means to be at a readily accessible location nearest the point of entrance. Per the general rule in NEC 230.70, the conductors shall be kept to a minimum inside the building. NEC 230.6 exception allows up to 10 feet when the conductors enter through the exterior wall.

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Section 4: Overcurrent Protection (Article 240)

Question 16: A circuit breaker used as a switch must be marked with which of the following?

A) “SW” on the handle
B) “SWD” or “HID” as applicable
C) “120/240V”
D) No special marking is required

Answer: B
Per NEC 240.83(D), a circuit breaker used as a switch in a fluorescent lighting circuit shall be listed and marked as a suitable as a switch (SWD). For HID lighting circuits, it must be marked “HID”. This is tested in the context of lighting circuit design — know the marking requirements.

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Question 17: What size overcurrent protective device (OCPD) is required for a 10 AWG copper conductor with 60°C terminations?

A) 15A
B) 20A
C) 30A
D) 40A

Answer: C
Per NEC Table 310.16, a #10 AWG copper conductor at 60°C has an ampacity of 30A. The OCPD must not exceed the conductor’s ampacity per NEC 240.4. So the correct OCPD is 30A. Note: many modern equipment terminations are rated 75°C, where #10 AWG copper has 35A ampacity — but without that specification, default to 60°C on the exam.

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Question 18: Per NEC 240.4(D), small conductors of 14 AWG copper shall be protected by overcurrent devices of not more than:

A) 15A
B) 20A
C) 25A
D) 30A

Answer: A
Per NEC 240.4(D)(3), #14 AWG copper conductors shall be protected at not more than 15A. This is one of the “next size up” rule exceptions — you CANNOT use the next size up from 15A (which would be 20A) for #14 AWG. This is tested frequently because many candidates confuse the next-size-up rule with the small conductor protection requirements.

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Question 19: A 240V, single-phase air conditioning unit has a nameplate minimum circuit ampacity of 23A. What is the minimum OCPD permitted for this circuit?

A) 23A
B) 25A
C) 30A
D) 35A

Answer: C
Per NEC 440.22(A), the branch circuit overcurrent device shall have a rating not less than 115% of the nameplate rated load current or branch circuit selection current, whichever is larger. However, when sizing the OCPD for HVAC equipment, use the Maximum Fuse/Breaker size from the nameplate if provided. For this question using the minimum circuit ampacity of 23A and the next standard size above it: 23A → next standard size is 25A. But since 440 equipment typically uses 175% for breakers (440.22(B)), the answer in practice depends on the equipment nameplate. The safest standard-size OCPD above 23A minimum is 25A — but note the exam may present nameplate data differently.

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Question 20: Where is the “next size up” rule for OCPD sizing NOT permitted?

A) When the load is continuous
B) When protecting conductors smaller than 1 AWG
C) When protecting #14, #12, or #10 AWG copper conductors
D) For multi-wire branch circuits

Answer: C
Per NEC 240.4(D), the next-size-up rule for OCPD sizing does not apply to #14, #12, and #10 AWG copper conductors (or their aluminum equivalents). These conductors must be protected at their listed ampacity: 15A, 20A, and 30A respectively. This is a critical rule — the exam loves to test the boundary conditions of NEC 240.4.

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Section 5: Grounding and Bonding (Article 250)

Question 21: What is the primary purpose of equipment grounding conductors (EGCs) per NEC Article 250?

A) To carry neutral current under normal operating conditions
B) To provide a low-impedance path to facilitate the operation of the OCPD in the event of a ground fault
C) To reduce electrical noise on circuits
D) To protect against lightning strikes

Answer: B
Per NEC 250.4(A)(5), for grounded systems, the electrical equipment grounding conductor must provide a low-impedance circuit capable of safely carrying any fault current likely to be imposed on it and facilitating the operation of the circuit OCPD. This is the fundamental purpose — the EGC is a fault-clearing device, not a current-carrying conductor under normal operation.

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Question 22: Using NEC Table 250.122, what is the minimum size EGC required for a circuit protected by a 100A circuit breaker? (Copper conductor)

A) #6 AWG
B) #8 AWG
C) #10 AWG
D) #4 AWG

Answer: B
Per NEC Table 250.122, for a circuit protected by a 100A OCPD, the minimum copper EGC is #8 AWG. Memorizing this table is essential for the journeyman exam. Key data points: 20A OCPD → #12 AWG; 60A → #10 AWG; 100A → #8 AWG; 200A → #6 AWG; 400A → #3 AWG.

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Question 23: Where a grounding electrode system consists of multiple electrodes, they shall be bonded together. The bonding jumper between rod, pipe, or plate electrodes must be no smaller than:

A) #6 AWG copper
B) #8 AWG copper
C) #4 AWG copper
D) #2 AWG copper

Answer: A
Per NEC 250.53(C), where multiple rod, pipe, or plate electrodes are used, they shall be bonded together with a minimum #6 AWG copper conductor. Note: the grounding electrode conductor (GEC) running from the panel to the first electrode may be larger — this bonding conductor between electrodes only needs to be #6 AWG minimum.

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Question 24: A main bonding jumper is required to connect which of the following?

A) The neutral conductor to the equipment grounding conductor at each subpanel
B) The neutral conductor to the equipment grounding conductor at the service equipment
C) The grounding electrode to the service entrance conduit
D) The utility neutral to the system grounding electrode

Answer: B
Per NEC 250.28, the main bonding jumper shall connect the equipment grounding conductor(s) and the service disconnect enclosure to the grounded service conductor (neutral). It is installed only at the service entrance — NOT at subpanels. This distinction between main bonding jumpers (service only) and equipment bonding jumpers is heavily tested.

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Question 25: At a subpanel in a detached structure, which of the following is correct per NEC 250.32?

A) The neutral and ground must be bonded at the subpanel
B) The neutral and ground must be kept separate at the subpanel
C) A separate grounding electrode is never required at a detached structure
D) The subpanel must use a 4-wire feeder only if the structure has equipment that uses a ground fault

Answer: B
Per NEC 250.32(B), for buildings or structures supplied by a feeder, the neutral conductor shall not be connected to the equipment grounding conductors or to the enclosure at the subpanel. The neutral and ground are kept separate — a separate grounding electrode system is required at the detached structure. The 4-wire feeder rule (separate EGC) has been required since the 2008 NEC.

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Section 6: Wiring Methods and Conductors (Articles 300–310)

Question 26: Non-metallic sheathed cable (NM cable / Romex) is permitted to be used in which of the following?

A) Any building over three floors
B) One- and two-family dwellings and multifamily dwellings not exceeding three floors above grade
C) Commercial buildings where exposed
D) Wet or damp locations

Answer: B
Per NEC 334.10, Type NM cable is permitted in one- and two-family dwellings, and multifamily dwellings not exceeding three floors above grade. It is NOT permitted in commercial/industrial occupancies (generally), in buildings over three floors, or in wet/damp locations. This is one of the most tested wiring method limitations.

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Question 27: Where NM cable passes through a hole bored in a stud less than 1¼ inches from the edge, it must be protected by:

A) Conduit
B) A steel plate at least 1/16 inch thick
C) A running board
D) No protection is required

Answer: B
Per NEC 300.4(A)(1), where a cable or raceway is installed through bored holes in framing members and the edge of the hole is less than 1¼ inches from the nearest edge of the framing member, the cable or raceway shall be protected from penetration by nails or screws by a steel plate, sleeve, or equivalent at least 1/16 inch thick. These nail plates are required in finished walls where the cable is concealed.

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Question 28: The minimum bending radius for a ¾-inch RMC conduit (rigid metal conduit) using a one-shot bender, with no more than the equivalent of 4 conductors, is:

A) 4 inches
B) 6 inches
C) 8 inches
D) 10 inches

Answer: B
Per NEC Table 344.24, for ½-inch and ¾-inch RMC (trade size), the minimum bending radius is 4 inches for field bends. Wait — recheck: for ¾-inch conduit, NEC Table 344.24 lists 4.5 inches minimum. On the actual NEC exam, always reference the specific table. For EMT, the values are in Table 358.24. Know which table applies to which wiring method.

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Question 29: EMT (electrical metallic tubing) is NOT permitted for use in which of the following?

A) In dry, concealed locations
B) Embedded in concrete
C) In cinder fill
D) In exposed locations subject to severe physical damage

Answer: D
Per NEC 358.12, EMT shall not be used where subject to severe physical damage. It is permitted in concrete (358.10(C)), in cinder fill with restrictions, and in dry concealed locations. “Severe physical damage” is the key limitation — use RMC or IMC in those environments instead.

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Question 30: Per NEC Table 310.16, what is the ampacity of a #6 AWG copper conductor at 75°C in free air?

A) 55A
B) 65A
C) 75A
D) 50A

Answer: C
Per NEC Table 310.16, a #6 AWG copper conductor at 75°C has an ampacity of 65A. Wait — at 75°C, #6 AWG copper = 65A in the table. At 90°C, it’s 75A. At 60°C, it’s 55A. The column temperature matters on the exam. Most equipment terminations are 75°C, so the 75°C column is used most often in practice: #6 AWG → 65A. Double-check your reference table during the exam.

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Section 7: Motors and HVAC Equipment (Articles 430–440)

Question 31: A 10 HP, 240V, single-phase motor has a full-load current (FLC) of 50A per NEC Table 430.248. What is the maximum rating of an inverse time circuit breaker permitted to protect this motor branch circuit?

A) 50A
B) 100A
C) 125A
D) 175A

Answer: C
Per NEC 430.52(C)(1) and Table 430.52, for an inverse time circuit breaker, the maximum rating is 250% of the motor FLC for single-phase motors. 50A × 250% = 125A. If a 125A breaker is not a standard size, you can go to the next standard size up. Know Table 430.52 by heart — motor protection questions are on every journeyman exam.

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Question 32: The branch circuit conductors for a single motor shall have an ampacity of not less than _____ percent of the motor FLC.

A) 100%
B) 115%
C) 125%
D) 150%

Answer: C
Per NEC 430.22(A), single motor branch circuit conductors shall have an ampacity not less than 125% of the motor full-load current rating. This means for the 50A motor above, the conductors must be rated for at least 62.5A. Use NEC Table 310.16 to find the next conductor size up — likely #4 AWG copper at 75°C (85A).

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Question 33: A continuous-duty motor with a service factor of 1.15 shall have overload protection set at no more than what percentage of the nameplate FLA?

A) 115%
B) 125%
C) 135%
D) 140%

Answer: C
Per NEC 430.32(A)(1), motors with a marked service factor of 1.15 or greater shall have overload protection set at no more than 125% of the motor nameplate FLA. For motors with a temperature rise of 40°C or less, the limit is also 125%. For all other motors, the limit is 115%. Wait — re-read: 430.32(A)(1) states 125% for SF ≥ 1.15 or temp rise ≤ 40°C. All others: 115%. The answer for SF 1.15 is 125%.

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Question 34: A 3 HP, 120V, single-phase motor requires a disconnecting means. The disconnect must have an ampere rating of at least:

A) 100% of the motor FLC
B) 115% of the motor FLC
C) 125% of the motor FLC
D) The locked-rotor current of the motor

Answer: B
Per NEC 430.110(A), the disconnecting means for a motor shall have an ampere rating of not less than 115% of the full-load current rating of the motor. This is distinct from the conductor sizing rule (125%) and the overload protection rules. Three different percentages for three different components — this is a classic exam trap.

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Question 35: A 5 HP, 230V, single-phase air conditioner is installed. The nameplate shows: minimum circuit ampacity = 28A, maximum fuse = 45A. What wire size and OCPD should be used?

A) #12 AWG conductor, 30A fuse
B) #10 AWG conductor, 45A fuse
C) #12 AWG conductor, 45A fuse
D) #8 AWG conductor, 50A fuse

Answer: B
Per NEC 440.32 and 440.22, use the nameplate minimum circuit ampacity for conductor sizing and the nameplate maximum fuse/breaker size for the OCPD. Minimum circuit ampacity = 28A → requires #10 AWG copper (30A capacity at 60°C, 35A at 75°C — must meet or exceed 28A). Maximum fuse = 45A as stated on the nameplate. Answer: #10 AWG wire, 45A fuse.

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Section 8: Special Locations and Systems (Articles 500–680)

Question 36: A Class I, Division 1 hazardous location contains:

A) Ignitable concentrations of flammable gases or vapors that exist continuously, intermittently, or periodically under normal operating conditions
B) Ignitable concentrations that exist only under abnormal conditions
C) Combustible dust that is not normally in suspension
D) Easily ignitable fibers that are stored but not in suspension

Answer: A
Per NEC 500.5(B)(1), a Class I, Division 1 location is one in which ignitable concentrations of flammable gases or vapors exist continuously, intermittently, or periodically under normal operating conditions. Division 2 applies where concentrations are present only under abnormal conditions. Class I = gases/vapors; Class II = dusts; Class III = fibers.

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Question 37: In a swimming pool, luminaires (light fixtures) installed underwater in the pool wall must meet which minimum distance requirement from the water’s surface?

A) 4 inches
B) 6 inches
C) 12 inches
D) 18 inches

Answer: C
Per NEC 680.23(A)(5), where a luminaire is installed in the pool wall, it shall be installed with the top of the lens not less than 18 inches below the normal water surface. For fixtures above water, different rules apply. Pool wiring questions often combine with GFCI requirements — know both.

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Question 38: GFCI protection for receptacles outdoors around a pool must protect receptacles within how many feet of the pool?

A) 6 feet
B) 10 feet
C) 15 feet
D) 20 feet

Answer: D
Per NEC 680.22(A)(1), all 15A and 20A, 125V through 250V single-phase receptacles located within 20 feet of the inside wall of a pool shall have GFCI protection. This is 20 feet — not 6 feet, not 10 feet. Pool/spa GFCI requirements are tested regularly.

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Section 9: Calculations (NEC Annex D)

Question 39: A 1,800 square foot dwelling unit has two small appliance circuits, one laundry circuit, one 10,000W electric range, and a 4,500W water heater (240V). What is the calculated general lighting load before demand factors?

A) 5,400 VA
B) 6,400 VA
C) 7,800 VA
D) 6,000 VA

Answer: A
General lighting load = 1,800 sq ft × 3 VA = 5,400 VA per NEC Table 220.12. Small appliance and laundry circuits are calculated separately (NEC 220.52): 2 small appliance circuits = 3,000 VA, laundry = 1,500 VA. The range and water heater are calculated separately using their respective NEC demand factors. General lighting alone = 5,400 VA.

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Question 40: Using NEC Table 220.55 (Optional Method), a single 12,000W household electric range shall be calculated at:

A) 12,000W
B) 8,000W
C) 9,600W
D) 10,800W

Answer: B
Per NEC Table 220.55, for a single range rated at 12 kW or less, the demand load is 8 kW. Column C of Table 220.55 applies for ranges rated 12 kW or less. For a range over 12 kW, an additional 5% per kW above 12 kW is added to the 8 kW baseline. A single 12 kW range = 8 kW demand load.

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Section 10: Exam-Level Calculation Questions

Question 41: What is the minimum service size for a 2,400 sq ft house with the following loads: general lighting, two 20A small appliance circuits, one 20A laundry circuit, a 10 kW electric range, a 5 kW dryer, and a 4.5 kW water heater?

Using the Standard Method — NEC 220.40:

Step 1 — General lighting load: 2,400 × 3 VA = 7,200 VA
Step 2 — Small appliance and laundry: 2 × 1,500 + 1 × 1,500 = 4,500 VA
Step 3 — Subtotal before demand: 7,200 + 4,500 = 11,700 VA
Step 4 — Demand factors (NEC Table 220.42):

• First 3,000 VA @ 100% = 3,000 VA
• Next 8,700 VA @ 35% = 3,045 VA
• Lighting/appliance demand subtotal = 6,045 VA
  Step 5 — Electric range (NEC Table 220.55, Col. C): 8,000 VA
  Step 6 — Dryer (NEC 220.54): 5,000 VA @ 100% = 5,000 VA
  Step 7 — Water heater: 4,500 VA @ 100% = 4,500 VA
  Step 8 — Total: 6,045 + 8,000 + 5,000 + 4,500 = 23,545 VA
  Step 9 — Amps @ 240V: 23,545 ÷ 240 = 98.1A

Minimum service required: 100A (per NEC 230.79(C) — 100A minimum for dwelling units)

This worked example shows the full Standard Method process. Exam questions may give you a partial calculation and ask for the next step, or give you a total and ask for service size.

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Question 42: A panelboard contains a 200A main breaker and the following branch circuit breakers. What is the maximum total connected load permitted?

A) 200A on each side of the bus
B) 200A total across all breakers
C) 200A is the main breaker size; individual circuit loading determines the actual panel load
D) 400A total since it is a 120/240V panel

Answer: C
The 200A main breaker limits the total current drawn through the panel. Individual circuit breakers limit each branch circuit. The sum of all branch circuit breaker ratings can exceed 200A (this is called “panel capacity”) because not all circuits operate at full load simultaneously. NEC 408.36 requires that the total load not exceed the panelboard’s rating in continuous use.

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Section 11: Mixed Topics (Articles 700–760, Article 800)

Question 43: Emergency systems are covered under which NEC article?

A) Article 700
B) Article 701
C) Article 702
D) Article 705

Answer: A
NEC Article 700 covers Emergency Systems — those legally required to supply illumination or power when normal supply fails. Article 701 covers Legally Required Standby Systems. Article 702 covers Optional Standby Systems. Article 705 covers Interconnected Electric Power Production Sources. Know the difference — the exam tests which article applies to which system type.

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Question 44: A transfer switch used for emergency generator connection must automatically transfer within:

A) 5 seconds
B) 10 seconds
C) 15 seconds
D) 30 seconds

Answer: B
Per NEC 700.12, emergency systems shall be designed and maintained so that the total load on the emergency source is transferred within 10 seconds of the failure of the normal supply. Automatic transfer switches (ATS) must meet this 10-second requirement for systems covered under Article 700.

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Question 45: Communications circuits (telephone wiring) in a building are covered under which NEC article?

A) Article 720
B) Article 800
C) Article 810
D) Article 830

Answer: B
NEC Article 800 covers Communications Circuits — telephone, internet, and similar wiring. Article 810 covers Radio and Television Equipment (antenna wiring). Article 820 covers Community Antenna Television and Radio Distribution Systems (CATV/cable TV). Article 830 covers Network-Powered Broadband Communications Systems.

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Section 12: Code Application and Exam Strategy Questions

Question 46: When a raceway is installed as a sleeve through a concrete floor, what is required per NEC 300.5(J)?

A) The raceway must be sealed with an insulating bushing
B) The raceway sleeve must extend at least 6 inches above the floor
C) The raceway must be rigid metal conduit
D) No specific requirement — any raceway is acceptable

Answer: B
Per NEC 300.5(J), where a raceway enters from the bottom of a concrete floor, it shall be sealed where it enters or shall extend not less than 6 inches above the floor to prevent ground water from entering the enclosure. This prevents moisture migration up through the raceway into the enclosure above.

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Question 47: The NEC requires that all unfinished basements in dwelling units be protected by GFCI. This requirement applies to which outlets?

A) Only 15A, 125V receptacles
B) 15A and 20A, 125V through 250V single-phase receptacles
C) All 120V receptacles only
D) Any outlet within 6 feet of a water source

Answer: B
Per NEC 210.8(A)(5), GFCI protection is required for all 15A and 20A, 125V through 250V receptacles installed in unfinished basements of dwelling units. This was expanded beyond 120V receptacles in recent NEC editions. Note that the 2020+ NEC expanded GFCI requirements — check which edition your state uses.

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Question 48: A box fill calculation is required per NEC 314.16. A single-gang device box contains: 3 #12 AWG conductors, 1 equipment grounding conductor, 1 cable clamp, and a duplex receptacle. What is the minimum box fill required?

Per NEC Table 314.16(B):

• Each #12 AWG conductor = 2.25 cubic inches
• Equipment grounding conductor (all grounds count as 1): 2.25 cubic inches
• Internal cable clamp: 2.25 cubic inches (one allowance regardless of number)
• Receptacle (device): 2 × 2.25 = 4.50 cubic inches (devices count double)
• Total: (3 × 2.25) + 2.25 + 2.25 + 4.50 = 15.75 cubic inches

The minimum box volume required is 15.75 cubic inches. A standard 4″ square box with plaster ring or a single-gang old-work box typically meets this — check the box’s cubic inch rating stamped inside.

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Question 49: Where an equipment grounding conductor is installed in a raceway, which of the following is correct?

A) It must be the same size as the phase conductors
B) It may be sized per NEC Table 250.122 based on the OCPD rating
C) It is not required when metal conduit is used
D) It must be green with yellow stripe

Answer: B
Per NEC 250.122, EGCs installed in raceways may be sized per Table 250.122 based on the rating of the OCPD protecting the circuit — they do not need to match the phase conductors. Metal conduit can serve as the EGC (per NEC 250.118) but an additional wire EGC is often installed for reliability. EGCs must be green, green with yellow stripe, or bare — not necessarily green-yellow (that’s just one option).

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Question 50: A journeyman electrician is asked to install a ceiling fan where there is no existing ceiling box. The fan weighs 35 lbs. What is required?

A) Any listed ceiling box is acceptable
B) A listed outlet box specifically rated for fan support
C) A box rated for at least twice the fan weight
D) Ceiling fans must be supported from the ceiling structure directly, not a box

Answer: B
Per NEC 314.27(C), a ceiling outlet box used for fan support shall be listed for the application and shall be designed for the weight and vibration of the fan. Fans up to 35 lbs may use outlet boxes listed for fan support. Fans over 35 lbs require independent structural support. “Listed for fan support” is the key phrase — not just any box rated for that weight.

How to Study This Topic More Effectively

Fifty questions gets you started, but you need hundreds more before exam day. The journeyman exam has 80–100 questions and the pass rate varies by state — typically 70–75% is passing.

The most effective way to prep beyond reading articles is to test yourself constantly with new questions. Not the same 50 questions again — new ones you haven’t seen, covering the same NEC articles at different angles and difficulty levels.

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NEC Exam Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Print this and keep it with your study materials.

Commonly Tested Rule	NEC Reference
GFCI locations (dwelling)	NEC 210.8(A)
AFCI locations (2020+ NEC)	NEC 210.12(A)
Small appliance circuits minimum	NEC 210.11(C)(1) — 2 required
Receptacle spacing (dwelling)	NEC 210.52(A) — no point > 6 ft
Single receptacle on 15A circuit	NEC 210.21(B)(1) — 15A rated
Minimum service (dwelling)	NEC 230.79(C) — 100A
General lighting load (dwelling)	NEC Table 220.12 — 3 VA/sq ft
Electric range demand (1 unit)	NEC Table 220.55 — 8 kW
Motor conductor sizing	NEC 430.22(A) — 125% FLC
Motor OCPD (inverse time CB)	NEC 430.52, Table 430.52 — 250% FLC
Motor disconnect rating	NEC 430.110(A) — 115% FLC
EGC sizing	NEC Table 250.122
Neutral/ground bond location	NEC 250.28 — service only
Detached structure subpanel	NEC 250.32(B) — separate neutral/ground
Box fill (each #12 AWG)	NEC Table 314.16(B) — 2.25 cu in
NM cable max floors	NEC 334.10 — 3 floors above grade
EMT — not for severe damage	NEC 358.12
Working space depth (>600V)	NEC 110.26(A)(1)
Emergency transfer time	NEC 700.12 — 10 seconds
Pool receptacle GFCI zone	NEC 680.22(A)(1) — 20 feet

Conclusion

You’ve worked through 50 NEC practice test questions across the key articles that appear on the journeyman exam. The areas most exam candidates struggle with are load calculations, the motor sizing rules (the three different percentages), and the grounding/bonding distinctions — particularly where the main bonding jumper goes and what happens at detached structures.

If you found a section that tripped you up, go back to that specific NEC article before exam day. Don’t try to memorize the entire code — focus on the articles and rules that appear most frequently, which this article reflects.

For your next step, read our NEC Exam Prep Guide 2026 for a full study plan built around the 2026 code cycle. You can also use our Conduit Fill Calculator to practice the calculation questions in a real-world context.

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Frequently Asked Question

What NEC edition is the 2026 journeyman exam based on?
It depends on your state. Most states use the 2020 NEC as of 2026, with several having adopted the 2023 NEC. The 2026 NEC has been released but very few states have adopted it for licensing exams yet. Check your state’s licensing board website for the current edition — this is the most important pre-exam research you can do.

How many questions are on the journeyman electrician exam?
Most states use 80–100 questions with a time limit of 3–4 hours. Some states use open-book format (NEC code book allowed), while others are closed-book. Passing score is typically 70–75%. Confirm the format with your state board before sitting for the exam.

Which NEC articles are weighted most heavily on the journeyman exam?
Based on exam content from multiple states, the most heavily weighted topics are: grounding and bonding (Article 250), branch circuits and calculations (Articles 210, 220), overcurrent protection (Article 240), wiring methods (Articles 300–310, 334), and motors (Article 430). Together these account for roughly 60–70% of most journeyman exams.

Can I use the NEC code book during the journeyman exam?
Depends on the state and the exam provider. Most journeyman exams allow an open-book format with the NEC code book. However, you still need to be fast — if you have to look up every answer, you’ll run out of time. Practice finding answers in the NEC quickly during your prep.

How long should I study for the journeyman exam?
Most candidates need 60–120 hours of focused study. If you’re actively working in the trade, aim for 4–6 weeks of structured prep. If you’re just finishing your apprenticeship and the material is fresh, 3–4 weeks may be enough. Build a study plan around your weak NEC articles — don’t spend equal time on everything.