How to Get Your California Electrical Contractor License
Obtaining the CECL or better known as the California electrical contractor license does not have to be something that takes forever, in fact it is usually quite simple and only requires a little bit and fill in the necessary information. After you have completed the application, you only need to click on the submit button at the bottom of the application to automatically submit it to the California Department of Industrial Relations.
If you are not like most people and prefer to have a paper trail for everything you can submit your application by hand, they will only accept applications submitted in blue or red ink then mail the information.
After you have submitted the info for the testing exam and have been approved by the DAS your information is then moved to the testing facility, also known as the Experior Assessments. Experior Assessments then sends you the Candidate Information Bulletin. The Candidate Information Bulletin is a fantastic resource on how and what to study for the test, as well as give you the 800 number for your local area to schedule your exam, the CIB will give you the local facility location as well as upcoming testing times and dates. Please note that a test date is not automatically assigned to you.
Each application requires a seventy five dollar fee for the application as well as a one hundred dollar fee for the test which is due at the time of the testing. It’s required to pay via check or money order with it addressed to: DIR- Electrician Certification Fund. Right now there are 8 active testing centers: San Diego, Fresno, San Francisco, Fremont, Van Nuys, Cerritos, Rancho Cordova and Colton.
If you have any questions regarding the test you may contact Experior directly at the following address:
Experior
1260 Energy Lane
St. Paul, MN 55108
If you’d like to reach them by phone give them a call at 800-805-9123.
Every application/applicant must have a certain amount of experience before they can be officially certified, as well as qualifying via the written test. Each application must prove that they have had enough in field experience by one of the following:
1. Finish an the apprentice programs supplied by either the California Apprenticeship Council, the federal Bureau of Apprenticeship training, or State apprenticeship council approved apprenticeship programs.
2. In Job Experience: You must complete 8000 hours of work for an electrical contractor, that includes tasks like maintaining the electrical systems that are covered in the National Electrical Code, construction, as well as installation.
Keep in mind that there is absolutely no reciprocity between states. Although, there are some exceptions between certain states as covered by the Chief of the DAS which will state other requirements needed.
Be sure to purchase the needed books for your exam. To figure out which books that are necessary, refer to the list of documents and books listed on the state’s exam page of their website. It’s an absolute must that you purchase these before you take the test.
Following the rules is crucially important, the test is a closed-book examination. You absolutely cannot review any materials during the test. You will be asked to leave all notes in your car or put them in the trash prior to the test. Also note that there will be some path problems, make sure that you bring a calculator although none that can be programmed or that have alpha numeric abilities.
Begin studying now if you want to pass the first time, remember to review all the materials and books that they suggest to review. The time required to study and become knowledgable will vary from individual to individual. Be sure that you will have enough time to study prior to the exam.
We wish you luck! The test consists of 100 questions based on general Electricity and you have 4 hours to complete it. The test is administered on a computer, and the test is designed for those with very little computer experience. There is a short practice version of the test that guarantees that everyone fully understands how to properly take the test. We highly recommend arriving atleast fifteen minutes before the scheduled starting time. You must also bring one valid form of ID that has your name on it, a current photo, and a signature.
The Electrical C-10 Examination is divided into 5 major sections.
1. System Evaluation and Design
- Existing System Valuation
- Material Section
- Code Requirements
- Plan and specification interpretation
2. Rough Wiring
- System layout
- Grounding and bonding
- Wire and equipment labeling
- Clearance and accessibility requirements
- Raceway and panel installation
3. Finish Wiring and Trim
- Finish device placement and installation
- Trims and sealants
- System energizing and testing
4. Troubleshooting and Repairing
- Selection and use of electrical testing equipment
- Location, repair, and replacement of inoperable electrical wires/components
- Common electrical problems
5. Safety
- Tools/equipment
- Personal/protective equipment
- Lock out/tag out procedures
Getting your California Electrical Contractor license doesn’t need to be hard. Check out our website for additional tips and tricks for passing the first time.
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