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Montana (MT) Journeyman Electrician Practice Exam
1. According to the 2020 NEC, which article covers wiring methods (including cables, conduits, and raceways)? A. Article 210 B. Article 300 C. Article 400 D. Article 500 Answer: B Explanation: Article 300 of the NEC details the requirements for wiring methods—including the installation of conductors, cables, and raceways. 2. For kitchen countertop receptacles in a dwelling unit, the NEC 2020 requires a minimum of how many small‐appliance branch circuits? A. One B. Two C. Three D. Four Answer: B Explanation: The NEC requires at least two small‐appliance branch circuits for kitchen countertop receptacles in dwelling units. 3. Under NEC 2020 Article 250, what is the primary purpose of an equipment grounding conductor? A. To carry normal operating current B. To provide a path for fault current C. To supply power to devices D. To reduce electromagnetic interference Answer: B Explanation: An equipment grounding conductor provides a low-impedance path for fault current, ensuring that overcurrent devices operate promptly. 4. Which of the following locations in a dwelling unit must have Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection per NEC 2020? A. Living room receptacles B. Garage receptacles C. Bedroom receptacles D. Hallway receptacles
Answer: B Explanation: GFCI protection is required by the NEC in areas such as garages, bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors, and unfinished basements to reduce shock hazards.
5. In dwelling unit bedrooms, the NEC 2020 requires what type of circuit protection? A. GFCI protection B. AFCI protection C. Both GFCI and AFCI protection D. No special protection Answer: B Explanation: The NEC mandates arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection for branch circuits supplying outlets in dwelling unit bedrooms. 6. Although many cables (like NM cable) have conductors rated 90°C, when installed in a cable assembly in a residential application the ampacity is based on which temperature rating? A. 60°C B. 75°C C. 90°C D. 105°C Answer: A Explanation: For ampacity calculations in many residential cable assemblies, the NEC requires using the 60°C column (due to termination limitations), even though the insulation may be rated 90°C. 7. What is the minimum clear working space required in front of electrical panels per the 2020 NEC? A. 1 ft B. 2 ft C. 3 ft D. 4 ft Answer: C Explanation: The NEC requires a minimum of 3 feet of clear working space in front of electrical panels to ensure safe maintenance and operation. 8. When conductors are installed in a conduit with more than two current‐carrying conductors, what does the NEC 2020 require? A. No change in ampacity
C. Article 250 D. Article 700 Answer: B Explanation: Article 430 of the NEC provides the guidelines and requirements for motors, motor circuits, and motor controllers.
13. When installing service entrance conductors from the utility to a building, the NEC 2020 requires that they be installed in: A. Open air above ground B. Approved raceways or cable assemblies C. Directly attached to the building structure without protection D. Only metallic conduit Answer: B Explanation: Service entrance conductors must be protected—typically installed in approved raceways or as part of approved cable assemblies—to ensure mechanical and electrical safety. 14. Conduit fill calculations per the NEC 2020 are required for installations in which situation? A. Open wiring on a stud wall B. Wiring installed in a conduit C. Wiring inside an electrical box D. Flexible cord installations Answer: B Explanation: When conductors are installed in a conduit, the NEC requires that conduit fill limits be observed to prevent overheating and allow proper conductor installation. 15. The NEC 2020 specifies a maximum number of conductors allowed in a single NM cable. A. 3 conductors B. 4 conductors C. No specific maximum (only fill requirements apply) D. 6 conductors Answer: C Explanation: The NEC does not impose a strict maximum count for conductors in an NM cable; rather, it governs the conductor fill and installation methods. 16. How is a “dedicated circuit” defined according to the NEC 2020? A. A circuit serving multiple devices
B. A circuit serving only one appliance or piece of equipment C. A circuit that is shared between appliances D. A circuit that supplies lighting only Answer: B Explanation: A dedicated circuit is one that serves only one appliance or piece of equipment, ensuring that the device has a supply that is not shared with other loads.
17. In damp or wet locations, what is required for receptacle installations per NEC 2020? A. Use of metal boxes only B. Use of weatherproof covers C. Use of flexible cord connectors D. No special requirements Answer: B Explanation: Receptacles in damp or wet areas must have weatherproof covers to protect against moisture ingress. 18. What is the NEC 2020 requirement regarding grounding electrode systems for a new residential building? A. One ground rod only B. Two ground rods only C. One ground rod plus a water pipe D. Any approved system that meets NEC grounding electrode requirements Answer: D Explanation: The NEC permits any grounding electrode system that complies with its requirements (e.g., ground rods, concrete-encased electrodes, metal underground water pipes). 19. For horizontal runs of NM cable, what is the maximum spacing allowed between supports per NEC 2020? A. 3 feet B. 4.5 feet C. 6 feet D. 8 feet Answer: B Explanation: The NEC requires that NM cable be secured at intervals not to exceed 4.5 ft horizontally. 20. According to NEC 2020, flexible cords are acceptable for which application? A. A substitute for fixed building wiring
B. Switches rated for damp locations C. Flexible cord switches D. No switches are permitted Answer: B Explanation: Switches installed in damp or wet areas must be rated for those conditions to prevent corrosion and electrical hazards.
25. For bonding metal parts, what does the NEC 2020 require regarding the type of conductor used for a bonding jumper? A. Any conductor of adequate size B. Only insulated conductors C. Bare copper or other listed bonding conductors D. Flexible cords Answer: C Explanation: Bonding jumpers must be installed using bare copper (or another approved material) that is listed for bonding to ensure proper continuity. 26. What is the main function of a panelboard as defined in the NEC 2020? A. To convert voltage levels B. To distribute electrical circuits from a service entrance C. To regulate current flow D. To store electrical energy Answer: B Explanation: A panelboard distributes power from the service entrance to individual circuits and incorporates overcurrent protection for each circuit. 27. In NEC terminology, what does “listed” equipment mean? A. Equipment approved by a recognized testing laboratory B. Equipment manufactured in the USA C. Equipment that is more expensive D. Equipment installed in public buildings only Answer: A Explanation: “Listed” means the equipment has been tested and approved by a recognized independent testing laboratory for its intended use. 28. In exposed work areas, which wiring methods are acceptable per the NEC 2020? A. NM cable only B. MC cable only
C. UF cable only D. Any approved wiring method provided it is properly installed and protected Answer: D Explanation: Any wiring method (NM, MC, UF, etc.) is acceptable in exposed areas as long as it is installed per code requirements and protected from physical damage.
29. For conductor splices in raceways, the NEC 2020 requires that splices be made with: A. Approved connectors B. Twisted conductors without connectors C. Soldering only D. Electrical tape alone Answer: A Explanation: All conductor splices must be made using approved connectors (e.g., wire nuts, listed splice kits) to ensure a safe, permanent connection. 30. Tamper-resistant receptacles are required in which locations per NEC 2020? A. Only in kitchens B. Only in outdoor areas C. In all receptacles within dwelling units D. Only in schools Answer: C Explanation: The NEC requires that all receptacles installed in dwelling units be tamper- resistant to reduce the risk of electrical shock, especially to children. 31. What is the purpose of a disconnecting means in an electrical system per NEC 2020? A. To permanently disconnect power to an appliance B. To allow safe shutdown of power during maintenance C. To control lighting brightness D. To regulate voltage Answer: B Explanation: A disconnecting means allows for the safe isolation of equipment or circuits during maintenance or emergency situations. 32. For high-temperature industrial applications, which conductor insulation is most commonly used per NEC 2020? A. NM cable insulation B. THHN/THWN insulation C. UF cable insulation
B. UF cable C. Conduit with insulated conductors D. Open wiring Answer: C Explanation: Pools and spas are wet and may be exposed to physical damage; therefore, conductors must be run in conduit with insulated conductors to ensure protection.
37. When installing recessed luminaires in insulated ceilings, the NEC 2020 requires that either the luminaire be IC-rated or that: A. It be sealed from insulation contact B. It be installed only in non-insulated ceilings C. A barrier be provided between the luminaire and insulation D. It be connected to a dedicated circuit Answer: C Explanation: Recessed luminaires must be either rated for insulation contact (IC-rated) or have an appropriate barrier so that insulation does not cause overheating. 38. For a branch circuit protected by a 20-amp overcurrent device, what is the minimum size copper equipment grounding conductor per NEC 2020 (referencing Table 250.122)? A. 14 AWG B. 12 AWG C. 10 AWG D. 8 AWG Answer: B Explanation: According to NEC Table 250.122, a 20-amp circuit typically requires a minimum 12 - AWG equipment grounding conductor when using copper. 39. When conductors are drawn through conduits, the NEC 2020 requires that they not be subjected to sharp bends exceeding: A. A 90° bend only B. Their specified minimum bend radius C. Any bend if insulated D. A fixed 45° maximum bend Answer: B Explanation: Conductors must not be forced into bends that exceed the manufacturer’s specified bend radius in order to preserve insulation integrity and avoid damage.
40. When an electrical box is used to support the weight of a luminaire, the NEC 2020 requires that the box be: A. Any standard box B. Rated for the luminaire’s weight C. Made of plastic only D. Mounted on a wall Answer: B Explanation: The box must be specifically rated and securely mounted to support the weight of the luminaire safely. 41. Which of the following areas requires GFCI protection under the NEC 2020? A. Living room outlets B. Bathroom outlets C. Bedroom outlets D. Office outlets Answer: B Explanation: Bathrooms are wet locations where electrical shock hazards are higher; hence, receptacles must be GFCI-protected. 42. What is the main purpose of conduit bodies as defined by the NEC 2020? A. To shield conductors from sunlight B. To provide access for pulling conductors and making splices C. To increase conduit fill capacity D. To act as a switch Answer: B Explanation: Conduit bodies offer access points in conduit runs, making it easier to pull conductors and perform splices or terminations. 43. When installing electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment, the NEC 2020 requires that the circuit be: A. Shared with household outlets B. A dedicated circuit with appropriate overcurrent protection C. Connected using flexible cord wiring D. Installed without special considerations Answer: B Explanation: EV charging equipment requires a dedicated circuit and proper overcurrent protection to safely handle the load.
48. Why does the NEC 2020 require that cables be secured at intervals along their run? A. For aesthetic reasons B. To prevent mechanical damage and stress on the conductors C. To increase electrical conductivity D. To meet local ordinances only Answer: B Explanation: Proper securing prevents undue movement and mechanical stress that could damage the conductors or insulation over time. 49. Which method is acceptable for securing cable assemblies per the NEC 2020? A. Non‐approved straps B. Listed cable clamps and supports C. Allowing cables to hang loosely D. Permanently taping cables in place Answer: B Explanation: The NEC requires that cables be secured using clamps and supports that are listed and approved for that specific purpose. 50. Which article of the NEC 2020 addresses emergency systems (such as emergency lighting and power)? A. Article 700 B. Article 725 C. Article 800 D. Article 210 Answer: A Explanation: Article 700 covers the requirements for emergency systems, including emergency power and lighting systems. 51. What is required for circuit identification in a panelboard according to the NEC 2020? A. No identification is required B. Clear identification by function or location C. Only high-voltage circuits need labeling D. Only circuits with AFCI protection need labeling Answer: B Explanation: The NEC requires that each circuit in a panelboard be clearly labeled to facilitate safe maintenance and troubleshooting.
52. For conductors installed in conduit and exposed to outdoor conditions, which insulation rating is required per NEC 2020? A. THHN only B. THWN or THWN- 2 C. NM cable insulation D. Any insulation is acceptable Answer: B Explanation: THWN/THWN-2 is rated for wet and outdoor conditions and is the appropriate choice for conductors in exposed conduits. 53. What is the purpose of bonding non–current–carrying metal parts of equipment per NEC 2020? A. To balance voltage B. To provide a low-resistance fault current path C. To ground the neutral conductor D. To prevent corrosion Answer: B Explanation: Bonding metal parts ensures that in the event of a fault, the current has a low- resistance path to ground, minimizing shock hazards. 54. In hazardous (classified) locations, the NEC 2020 requires that raceways be: A. Not used at all B. Listed for use in hazardous locations C. Any raceway may be used if installed by a licensed electrician D. Only plastic raceways may be used Answer: B Explanation: In hazardous locations, all wiring methods—including raceways—must be listed and suitable for the specific hazardous environment. 55. When selecting conductor insulation types, the NEC 2020 requires that the insulation be chosen based on: A. A single universal type for all installations B. The installation environment and required temperature ratings C. The cheapest option available D. Aesthetic considerations only Answer: B Explanation: Insulation must be appropriate for the environmental conditions (temperature, moisture, chemical exposure) and meet the NEC’s safety requirements.
60. For multiwire branch circuits, the NEC 2020 requires that: A. They are not allowed in residential installations B. They include a common disconnect and proper handling of shared neutrals C. No special precautions are necessary D. Each conductor be on an individual circuit breaker Answer: B Explanation: Multiwire branch circuits must have a common disconnect (or simultaneous disconnect) and the neutrals must be correctly identified and handled to ensure safety. 61. For a single-phase, three-wire service, the NEC 2020 typically requires how many grounding electrodes? A. One B. Two C. Three D. Four Answer: A Explanation: Generally, one properly installed grounding electrode is acceptable; however, additional electrodes may be used if required by local codes or special conditions. 62. In dwelling units, which area specifically requires AFCI protection per the NEC 2020? A. Outdoor receptacles B. Bedroom receptacles C. Kitchen countertop circuits D. Garage circuits Answer: B Explanation: AFCI protection is mandated for branch circuits supplying outlets in bedrooms of dwelling units. 63. What is required regarding cable connectors per the NEC 2020? A. Any connector may be used B. They must be listed for the type of cable and installation environment C. Connectors are optional D. Improvised connectors are acceptable if secured tightly Answer: B Explanation: The NEC requires that cable connectors be listed and appropriate for the cable type and installation conditions.
64. Why must circuits in an electrical panel be labeled according to the NEC 2020? A. To confuse unauthorized persons B. To facilitate troubleshooting and safe maintenance C. To increase resistance in the circuit D. For aesthetic purposes only Answer: B Explanation: Clear labeling of circuits is essential for effective troubleshooting, maintenance, and ensuring safety during service work. 65. What must be done with unused openings in an electrical box per the NEC 2020? A. Leave them open B. Cover them with approved filler plates or covers C. Tape them shut with electrical tape D. Seal them with caulk Answer: B Explanation: Unused openings must be closed using filler plates or covers to maintain the integrity of the box and protect against accidental contact with live parts. 66. In attic installations, the NEC 2020 requires that conductors be: A. Left loosely laid B. Secured to prevent contact with insulation or damage C. Run exclusively in conduit D. Unsecured if not in view Answer: B Explanation: Conductors in attic spaces must be properly secured to prevent them from coming into contact with insulation or other materials that could cause damage or overheating. 67. When installing a subpanel, what does the NEC 2020 require regarding the grounding conductor? A. No equipment grounding conductor is needed B. A separate equipment grounding conductor must be run with the feeder C. The subpanel can share the main panel’s ground without a separate conductor D. Grounding is optional for subpanels Answer: B Explanation: The NEC requires that subpanels be connected via a separate equipment grounding conductor (EGC) to ensure a safe fault current path.
72. In areas subject to physical damage, which wiring method is prohibited per the NEC 2020? A. Wiring in conduit B. Exposed NM cable C. MC cable with proper protection D. UF cable in wet locations Answer: B Explanation: Exposed NM cable is not permitted in areas where it is vulnerable to physical damage; it must be run in conduit or another protective wiring method. 73. Tamper-resistant receptacles are required in all: A. Residential dwelling unit receptacles B. Commercial building receptacles only C. Outdoor receptacles only D. Kitchen receptacles only Answer: A Explanation: To help prevent accidental shock (especially for children), the NEC requires that all receptacles in dwelling units be tamper-resistant. 74. What is the primary function of a circuit breaker as defined in the NEC 2020? A. To increase voltage B. To interrupt the circuit during an overcurrent condition C. To regulate current flow D. To transform electrical frequency Answer: B Explanation: Circuit breakers are designed to automatically disconnect a circuit when an overcurrent condition occurs, protecting wiring and equipment from damage. 75. For equipment installed in special environmental conditions (e.g., corrosive atmospheres), the NEC 2020 requires that the equipment be: A. Standard equipment regardless of environment B. Listed for the specific environment C. Installed without additional protection D. Chosen solely on cost considerations Answer: B Explanation: Equipment must be specifically listed and rated for the conditions in which it is installed (such as corrosive atmospheres) to ensure long-term safe operation.
76. When conductors in conduit are exposed to direct sunlight, the NEC 2020 requires that they have: A. Standard THHN insulation B. UV-resistant jackets or be installed in conduit that protects from sunlight C. No special protection D. An extra layer of tape Answer: B Explanation: Conductors exposed to sunlight must have UV-resistant insulation or be shielded by conduit to prevent degradation from ultraviolet exposure. 77. Which of the following is acceptable for securing raceways to a building structure per NEC 2020? A. Unlisted brackets B. Supports and straps that are listed for the purpose C. Taping the raceway to the structure D. Allowing raceways to rest without fasteners Answer: B Explanation: Raceways must be firmly attached using supports, straps, or clamps that are listed and approved for securing raceways. 78. The NEC 2020 requires that a disconnecting means for a feeder supplying a building be: A. Located at the building entrance B. Capable of being locked in the open position C. Readily accessible and clearly marked D. Installed inside a locked cabinet Answer: C Explanation: Disconnecting means for feeders must be easily accessible and clearly labeled so that they can be quickly operated in an emergency. 79. When conductors are bundled (such as in a cable assembly or raceway), the NEC 2020 requires that their ampacity be: A. Unchanged B. Derated to account for reduced heat dissipation C. Increased D. Calculated separately for each conductor Answer: B Explanation: Bundled conductors generate more heat; therefore, the NEC requires that their ampacity be derated according to established adjustment factors.
