Question 1

What is the journeyman electrician exam?

Accepted Answer

The journeyman electrician exam is a state-administered licensing test that measures a candidate's knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC), electrical theory, load calculations, and safe installation practices. Most states use a proctored, open-book format administered by PSI or Pearson VUE. [Source: PSI Candidate Information Bulletin]

Question 2

What NEC edition is the Texas journeyman electrician exam based on?

Accepted Answer

As of 2025, the Texas journeyman electrician exam administered by TDLR uses the 2023 NEC. Texas is tracking the 2026 NEC for adoption with a target enforcement date of September 1, 2026. Candidates should verify the current adopted edition with TDLR before scheduling. [Source: TDLR Electrician Examinations; Source: PSI Candidate Information Bulletin]

Question 3

What changed in the 2026 NEC?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 NEC moved load calculation rules from Article 220 to the new Article 120, changed the lighting load calculation from 3 VA per square foot to 2 VA per square foot for LED-dominant installations, updated continuous-load wording, added EVSE demand factors for existing dwellings, and introduced Power Control Systems (PCS) rules. [Source: 2026 NEC Article 120; Source: Electrical Contractor Magazine]

Question 4

How do I prepare for the journeyman electrician exam?

Accepted Answer

Effective exam prep combines NEC codebook navigation practice, load calculation drills, and timed practice exams. Start by tabbing your codebook so you can find articles quickly. Practice the math steps for voltage drop, conduit fill, box fill, and service load calculations. Use mentor-style explanations to understand why the rule exists, not just what the rule says. [Source: PSI Candidate Information Bulletin; Source: NEC 90.1]

Question 5

What is the difference between grounding and bonding?

Accepted Answer

Grounding connects an electrical system or equipment to the earth to stabilize voltage and provide a reference point. Bonding joins metallic parts together to establish electrical continuity and create an effective fault-current path so a breaker or fuse can clear a fault. Grounding connects to earth; bonding connects metal parts to each other. [Source: NEC Article 250 Part III; Source: NEC 250.4(A)(3); Source: NEC 250.4(A)(5)]