If you need help studying for a master electrician test or just want some more information about what these test is like, you’ve come to the right place.
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What’s on the Test?
The test is slightly different in every state, but these are the most common topics you’ll come across:
Core Knowledge Areas
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Electrical theory
- Wiring methods and materials
- Grounding and bonding
- Overcurrent protection
- Load calculations
- Equipment for general use
- Special occupancies, equipment, and conditions
- Motors and generators
- Services and service equipment
- Safety
Calculation Skills
- Ohm’s Law
- Circuit analysis
- Voltage drop calculations
- Conductor sizing and ampacity calculations
- Box fill and raceway fill calculations
Journeyman Electrician vs. Master Electrician
There are some key differences between a journeyman electrician and a master electrician:
Journeyman Electrician
A journeyman electrician is an electrician who has completed an apprenticeship and passed a licensing exam. They typically have 4-5 years of training and must work under the supervision of a master electrician.
They’re qualified to perform electrical installations, repairs, and maintenance under the general supervision of a master electrician.
Master Electrician
A master electrician is a contractor who has several years of experience as a journeyman electrician and passed the advanced licensing exam. As discussed earlier, this exam demonstrates a deeper understanding of electrical theory, the NEC, and business practices.
Master electricians are qualified to supervise and direct the work of journeyman and apprentice electricians, ensuring compliance with safety standards and code requirements.
Master Electrician Study Guide
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
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What Test-Takers Are Saying
Don’t just take our word for it! See what real test-takers from across the country are saying about the master electrician exam:
“It’s a tough test. A good portion of it will be closed book. Know how to do calculations and use the tables. Know how to draw a basic motor control circuit and a transformer wiring diagram.”

Scrags
“The master exam had no business/legal questions whatsoever. Study load calcs (commercial and residential) and motors for sure.”

bianco2056
“The test is 3 parts: code, fire code and business law. If you don’t work on fire alarms and such, it will be totally foreign to you. The code book uses a different numbering system than the NEC.”

John-John-3
“Basically every question was a trick question. I had a transformer neutral bond question that was all in the informational note—it was for a huge xformer that didn’t fit in the chart. One was a 3-phase motor question, but the trick was in the small conductor rule 240.4(d). Had a service calc that called for 42 20 amp circuits but you had to remember the two small appliances and the laundry.”

p1nche_guey
FAQs
How many questions are on the master electrician exam?
It varies from state to state, but the test usually contains around 90-120 questions.
How long is the master electrician exam?
It varies from state to state, but the test usually lasts for 3-4 hours.
What is the passing score for the master electrician exam?
The passing score varies from state to state but is generally 70%.
How much does the master electrician exam cost?
The testing fees vary from state to state.
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