Rhode Island Electrical Contractor (Certificate A / Class A) Exam Day: What to Expect

Rhode Island Electrical Contractor (Certificate A / Class A) Exam Day: What to Expect

The electrical contractor exam for Certificate A (the Class A license) is written and given by Rhode Island's Department of Labor and Training (DLT), Division of Professional Regulation, with the Board of Examiners of Electricians. It is a written exam of 80 questions in 4 hours, answered in ink, closed book by rule, and you need 70%. You took the journeyperson exam the same way at least two years ago; here is what to expect this time.

Before the day

Mail DLT the notarized application, your experience letter and the $75 fee so it arrives at least 15 working days before an exam date. Once you are approved, DLT mails you the time and place. Seats are first come, first served and space is limited; only approved applicants are admitted.

If you need an interpreter for the hearing impaired, tell Professional Regulation at (401) 462-8580 at least three business days before the exam.

Where you test

DLT sets the place in your notice. State law requires exam sittings in Providence at least twice a year and allows other places in the state. DLT Professional Regulation's office is at 1511 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston.

Closed book

Anyone "found referring to notes or books during an examination, except by permission by the board will be disqualified." DLT does not publish whether the Board allows the NEC at contractor sittings, so plan for no book and ask DLT when your notice arrives. Bring what your notice lists; answers are written in ink unless you are told otherwise.

Pacing

You have 4 hours for 80 questions, about three minutes each. Expect more calculations than on the journeyperson exam. Answer the recall questions first, then work the load and motor calculations with the time that is left, writing out each step so a slip is easy to spot.

Results, review and the license

You need 70% to pass. With 60% or more you may review your exam with members of the Board. To retake, apply for a later exam; ask DLT whether a new application fee applies. After you pass, DLT invoices you for the $240 two-year Certificate A license fee. If you license a firm or corporation, it is licensed through you as the member or officer who passed.

Practice first

Our Rhode Island Electrical Contractor practice test is built on the 2023 NEC; answer each question from memory before you read the explanation. For the content, see what is on the Contractor exam.