Electrical Certification
The following information is applicable to those that need to take the State of California electrical exam. (either because you are an electrician that has never been certified or you have an expired certification card)
In addition to California Continuing Education program, we also offer home study solutions to prepare electricians for California State Electrical Certification exam. Our self-paced home study programs are the most convenient, cost effective methods available for preparing you to successfully pass your certification exam. Study times will vary but approximately 15-25 hours total stands between you and your certification. By following our easy course outline and studying between 1 1/2 to 3 hours each week, you are guaranteed to pass.
If you are currently employed by a California electrical contractor (C-10 licensed) and not certified, you are working illegally. Your employer is subject to fines and penalties if they continue to allow you to work without being State certified. Start today and be certified in less than 30 days.
FAQ’s
Is it true that licensed electrical contractors themselves are not required to obtain the certification?
If you are a licensed C-10 contractor licensed by the Contractors’ State License Board, then you do not need to be certified. However, if you have employees that work under you then they need to get certified. Note that if you are a licensed C-10 contractor but working under another C-10 contractor’s license as an employee you must be certified.
I am a foreman for a contractor and sometimes I work with the tools for that work. Do I have to be certified?
Yes.
What if I'm only coming into California to work for a short time as an electrician on one job?
All electricians working for C-10 licensed contractors should be certified regardless of the length of the project.
Is the test a written exam?
Yes, and the test is on a computer. Little to no experience is needed to operate the computer. A short practice lesson is given prior to the test.
Is this an open-book test?
Yes. Materials are provided at the test site.
How many questions are on the test?
There are 100 questions on the General Electrician test and you have 4 hours to complete the test. There are 75 questions on the Residential Electrician exam and you have 3 hours to complete the exam. There are 50 questions on the Fire/Life Safety Technician Exam and you have 2 hours to complete the exam. There are 50 questions on the Voice, Data, Video Technician exam and you have 2 hours to complete it. There are 50 questions on the Non-residential Lighting Technician exam and you have 2 hours to complete it.
When will I receive my certification card?
A temporary statement will be issued to you at the exam site upon completion of the exam if you pass. A plastic card will be mailed to you within 2-4 weeks after the test.
Who is required to be certified?
All electricians who make connections of greater than 100 volt amps who work for C-10 Contractors
I have a C-10 license do I have to be certified?
No, sole owners who have a license in their own name need not be certified.
I am an electrician moving to California from out of state, do I need to be certified? Is there a grace period for obtaining certification when moving to the state?
Yes, out of state electricians need to be certified before they can start working in California, there is no grace period.
If I have a license from another state, do I have to be tested and certified?
Yes. Your electrician’s license acquired from other states will make you eligible to sit for the test.
Is the test true/false, multiple choice, fill in the blank or essay?
All questions are multiple choice.
What should I study in preparation for the exam?
The test is based on the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, 2014 Edition.
Is the test available in languages other than English?
The test is also available in Spanish.
What happens if I fail the test?
A minimum score of 70% is required to pass the test. If you don’t pass the first time you can take it again 60 days from the date of the last exam.
If I don't pass the test do I have to pay to take it again?
Yes. You have to pay the exam fee of $100 per exam.
Study Course to prepare for
California State Exam
Electrical Certification Crash Course- $125
Everything an electrician needs to get certified at prices they can afford. Written practice questions and interactive CD with several practice tests. Review of theory and basic principles, handouts on formulas and calculations and much more.