Texas Electrician Practice Test with Explanations | TDLR PSI
Texas electrician practice test with answer keys, codebook refs, checklists, fees, and ADA info—aligned to TDLR and PSI.
Build Texas-ready exam skills with a comprehensive practice test, code-referenced answer explanations, and a clear plan mapped to TDLR and PSI requirements. This guide also includes application and retake checklists, a fees table, ADA accommodations, and an exam content breakdown.
Eligibility & Application Overview
Texas electrician exams are regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and delivered by PSI. You apply with TDLR, and after you’re approved, you schedule and test with PSI. According to the TDLR Electricians Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB) and program pages, the official exam outlines, allowed references, and scheduling steps are published by TDLR and PSI [1][2]. For a deeper dive into documentation and experience categories, see our Texas Electrician License Requirements, and for submission details use our Texas Electrician License Application Guide.
- Application checklist (high level): submit your TDLR application online, pay the applicable state fee, and monitor email for your exam eligibility from TDLR [1].
- Scheduling: once eligible, create/sign in to your PSI account, select your exam, choose a test center or online-proctored option (if offered), and pay the PSI exam fee [2].
- Bring to test: valid government photo ID that exactly matches your PSI registration, and only the references permitted in the CIB for your license type [1][2].
Fees & Key Dates
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| TDLR application fee (by license type) | See TDLR schedule | Paid to TDLR when you apply; fees vary by license and are listed on TDLR’s Electricians pages/CIB [1]. |
| PSI exam fee (per attempt) | Set by PSI | Paid at scheduling; check your PSI account for the current amount for your specific exam [2]. |
| Reschedule/cancellation cutoff | Set by PSI policy | See your PSI confirmation email/portal for the deadline to avoid forfeiting fees [2]. |
| Retake fee | Same as exam fee (typically) | Each retake requires another PSI payment; confirm in PSI before you rebook [2]. |
| Eligibility window | Listed in your ATT/PSI portal | Test within the stated window or you may need to re-apply/pay again [1][2]. |
Study Plan & Required References
TDLR’s CIB identifies the exam references and content areas for each Texas license type, and PSI enforces what is allowed in the test room. Always study from and bring only the edition(s) listed in your CIB [1][2]. To keep you on track, use our Texas Electrician Exam Study Plan and drill with the Full-Length Texas Electrician Practice Test that mirrors Texas content and uses codebook locators.
- ☐ Obtain required codebooks/reference materials
- ☐ Follow a weekly study plan (4–6 weeks)
- ☐ Complete timed practice exams
Core references (verify exact edition/allowance in the CIB):
- National Electrical Code (NEC), edition listed in your TDLR CIB [1].
- Texas laws and program information referenced by TDLR for the exam (e.g., Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1305; TDLR program rules as applicable) [1][3].
Texas exam content areas you should master (mapped to the CIB) [1]:
- General requirements and definitions (NEC Chapter 1; Article 100, 110)
- Wiring and protection (Articles 200, 210, 215, 220, 225, 230, 240)
- Wiring methods and materials (NEC Chapter 3; raceways, cables, boxes)
- Equipment for general use (NEC Chapter 4; appliances, motors, transformers, HVAC)
- Special occupancies and equipment (NEC Chapters 5 and 6)
- Special conditions, communication systems, and calculations (NEC Chapters 7 and 8; Article 220, motor/feeder calcs)
- Texas statutes/rules as referenced in the CIB (program law and administrative items) [1][3]
Exam Format, Scoring, and Retakes
Texas electrician exams are computer-based at PSI test centers (and may also be offered via online proctoring if available). They are multiple-choice and open-book, limited to the references listed for your exam in the CIB. You will receive a score report from PSI with pass/fail status and diagnostic feedback. The specific passing score, number of questions, and time limit are posted in the TDLR CIB and on PSI’s scheduling screens for your license type [1][2]. If you do not pass, PSI allows you to retake after paying the fee again and rebooking; retain your score report to focus your next attempt [2].
Accommodations & Special Cases
PSI provides reasonable testing accommodations under the ADA. Submit your request with documentation directly to PSI following the instructions in your PSI account and in the CIB. Do not schedule until you receive written approval for accommodations. Identification name-mismatch issues, religious attire, or other special circumstances must also be coordinated with PSI in advance, per PSI policy and the CIB [1][2].
Free Texas Electrician Practice Test (Sample)
Below are Texas-style, NEC-referenced items with full explanations. Use these to benchmark speed and accuracy before you attempt our Full-Length Texas Electrician Practice Test.
What is the minimum width of working space for electrical equipment operating at 1000 volts or less?
- A. 24 inches
- B. 30 inches
- C. 36 inches
- D. Width of the equipment only
Answer: B. 30 inches
Explanation: Working space width must be the greater of 30 inches or the equipment width. See NEC 110.26(A)(2).
When calculating box fill, all equipment grounding conductors in the box count as:
- A. Zero conductors
- B. One conductor total, of the largest EGC present
- C. One conductor for each EGC
- D. Half a conductor each
Answer: B. One conductor total, of the largest EGC present
Explanation: NEC 314.16(B) counts all EGCs together as a single conductor of the largest size present.
What size copper equipment grounding conductor is required for a 90-ampere circuit protected by an OCPD?
- A. 10 AWG Cu
- B. 8 AWG Cu
- C. 6 AWG Cu
- D. 4 AWG Cu
Answer: B. 8 AWG Cu
Explanation: Table 250.122 shows 8 AWG copper for 100A OCPD; 90A falls within that row.
The service disconnecting means for each service may consist of not more than how many disconnects in one or a group of enclosures?
- A. Two
- B. Four
- C. Six
- D. Eight
Answer: C. Six
Explanation: NEC 230.71 permits up to six service disconnects in one or a group of enclosures.
At least how much free conductor length must be left at each outlet, junction, and switch point for splicing or the connection of luminaires or devices?
- A. 4 inches
- B. 6 inches
- C. 8 inches
- D. 12 inches
Answer: B. 6 inches
Explanation: NEC 300.14 requires a minimum 6 inches of free conductor, with at least 3 inches extending beyond the box opening.
AFCI protection is required for 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets in dwelling unit habitable rooms such as bedrooms, living rooms, and similar rooms.
- A. True
- B. False
Answer: A. True
Explanation: NEC 210.12(A) covers dwelling unit AFCI requirements.
Which dwelling unit locations require GFCI protection for 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles?
- A. Bathrooms and garages only
- B. Kitchens and outdoors only
- C. As listed in 210.8(A), including bathrooms, garages, outdoors, basements, laundry areas, and others
- D. None of the above
Answer: C
Explanation: NEC 210.8(A) lists required dwelling GFCI locations.
What is the general lighting load unit value per square foot for dwelling units for load calculations?
- A. 1 VA/ft²
- B. 2 VA/ft²
- C. 3 VA/ft²
- D. 4 VA/ft²
Answer: C. 3 VA/ft²
Explanation: NEC 220.12 lists unit loads by occupancy; dwellings are 3 VA per square foot.
Minimum ampacity of branch-circuit conductors supplying a single continuous-duty motor must be at least what percent of the motor full-load current?
- A. 100%
- B. 115%
- C. 125%
- D. 140%
Answer: C. 125%
Explanation: NEC 430.22 requires 125% of motor FLC for branch-circuit conductors.
In a 4-wire, 3-phase, delta-connected system where the midpoint of one phase is grounded, the high leg shall be identified by what color at each point where a connection is made?
- A. Red
- B. Blue
- C. Orange
- D. Yellow
Answer: C. Orange
Explanation: NEC 110.15 and 230.56 require the high leg to be durably marked orange.
When more than two conductors are installed in a raceway, the maximum allowable conduit fill is:
- A. 30%
- B. 40%
- C. 50%
- D. 60%
Answer: B. 40%
Explanation: Chapter 9, Table 1 sets 40% maximum fill for over two conductors.
Adjustment factor for four to six current-carrying conductors in the same raceway or cable is:
- A. 90%
- B. 80%
- C. 70%
- D. 60%
Answer: B. 80%
Explanation: NEC 310.15(C)(1) provides conductor adjustment factors; 4–6 CCC = 80%.
FAQs
Is the Texas electrician exam open book, and which references are allowed?
Yes, Texas exams are open book, but only the references listed for your license type in the TDLR CIB are allowed. PSI enforces binding, tabbing, and note restrictions. Review the CIB and PSI rules before test day [1][2].
Which NEC edition is tested right now in Texas?
The active NEC edition for each Texas exam is stated in the TDLR CIB and on PSI’s scheduling pages. Always verify the edition in your CIB and study/sit with that edition only [1][2].
Can I bring a calculator into the PSI test room?
PSI typically allows a silent, non-programmable calculator. Phones, smartwatches, and programmable devices are not allowed. Check your PSI confirmation and the CIB for the current calculator policy [1][2].
How soon can I retake if I fail?
You may rebook through PSI after paying the exam fee again, subject to PSI seat availability and any eligibility window limits. Your PSI score report includes diagnostics to target weak areas [2].
Are there ADA accommodations for the Texas electrician exam?
Yes. Submit an ADA request and documentation to PSI as instructed in your PSI account and the CIB. Wait for written approval before scheduling so accommodations are in place [1][2].
Where can I find the legal authority behind Texas electrician licensing?
Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1305, governs the electricians program. The TDLR site and CIB link to statutes, rules, and exam details relevant to candidates [1][3][4].
References
- TDLR Electricians Program and Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB) — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/elec.htm
- PSI Candidate Portal (Texas Electricians) — https://candidate.psiexams.com/
- Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1305 — https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/OC/htm/OC.1305.htm
- TDLR Electricians FAQ — https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/elecfaq.htm
Disclaimer: Exam candidates should verify all requirements and fees with the official state licensing authority, as information may change without notice.
