NEW MEXICO EL 1J ELECTRICAL
DISTRIBUTION JOURNEYMAN EXAM
QUESTIONS WITH CORRECT ANSWERS
1. According to the NESC, what is the minimum vertical clearance for a 12.47kV phase-to-
ground conductor over a public street or alleyway?
A. 15.5 feet
B. 20.0 feet
C. 18.5 feet
D. 22.5 feet
Answer: C
Conceptual Explanation: NESC Table 232-1 specifies 18.5 feet for voltages between 750V
and 22kV over roads and alleys subject to truck traffic.
2. When installing a 120/240V 3-wire single-phase transformer bank, what is the correct
relationship between the primary bushings (H1, H2) for a subtractive polarity unit?
A. H1 is directly opposite X1
B. H1 is directly opposite X3
C. H1 is diagonally opposite X1
D. H1 is adjacent to X2
,Answer: A
Conceptual Explanation: In subtractive polarity transformers, H1 and X1 are adjacent
(directly opposite each other across the tank).
3. Under OSHA 1910.269, what is the required testing frequency for rubber insulating gloves
used on high voltage lines?
A. Every 6 months
B. Every 3 months
C. Every 12 months
D. Every 24 months
Answer: A
Conceptual Explanation: OSHA 1910.137 requires insulating gloves to be electrically
tested at least once every 6 months.
4. Which component is primarily used on a distribution line to correct the power factor by
providing reactive power?
A. Voltage Regulator
B. Step-down Transformer
C. Current Transformer
D. Shunt Capacitor
Answer: D
, Conceptual Explanation: Capacitors provide leading reactive power (VARs) to counteract
inductive loads, thereby improving the power factor.
5. What is the primary purpose of ‘Equipotential Grounding’ (EPZ) when working on de-
energized lines?
A. To trip the circuit breaker as fast as possible
B. To ensure the resistance to earth is zero
C. To provide a path for lightning to discharge
D. To maintain the same voltage potential between the worker and the equipment
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: EPZ grounding creates a zone where all conductive parts within
reach are at the same potential, preventing current flow through the worker if the line is
accidentally energized.
6. According to the NESC, what is the standard depth for a 40-foot wood pole set in firm soil?
A. 5.0 feet
B. 6.5 feet
C. 6.0 feet
D. 7.0 feet
Answer: C
DISTRIBUTION JOURNEYMAN EXAM
QUESTIONS WITH CORRECT ANSWERS
1. According to the NESC, what is the minimum vertical clearance for a 12.47kV phase-to-
ground conductor over a public street or alleyway?
A. 15.5 feet
B. 20.0 feet
C. 18.5 feet
D. 22.5 feet
Answer: C
Conceptual Explanation: NESC Table 232-1 specifies 18.5 feet for voltages between 750V
and 22kV over roads and alleys subject to truck traffic.
2. When installing a 120/240V 3-wire single-phase transformer bank, what is the correct
relationship between the primary bushings (H1, H2) for a subtractive polarity unit?
A. H1 is directly opposite X1
B. H1 is directly opposite X3
C. H1 is diagonally opposite X1
D. H1 is adjacent to X2
,Answer: A
Conceptual Explanation: In subtractive polarity transformers, H1 and X1 are adjacent
(directly opposite each other across the tank).
3. Under OSHA 1910.269, what is the required testing frequency for rubber insulating gloves
used on high voltage lines?
A. Every 6 months
B. Every 3 months
C. Every 12 months
D. Every 24 months
Answer: A
Conceptual Explanation: OSHA 1910.137 requires insulating gloves to be electrically
tested at least once every 6 months.
4. Which component is primarily used on a distribution line to correct the power factor by
providing reactive power?
A. Voltage Regulator
B. Step-down Transformer
C. Current Transformer
D. Shunt Capacitor
Answer: D
, Conceptual Explanation: Capacitors provide leading reactive power (VARs) to counteract
inductive loads, thereby improving the power factor.
5. What is the primary purpose of ‘Equipotential Grounding’ (EPZ) when working on de-
energized lines?
A. To trip the circuit breaker as fast as possible
B. To ensure the resistance to earth is zero
C. To provide a path for lightning to discharge
D. To maintain the same voltage potential between the worker and the equipment
Answer: D
Conceptual Explanation: EPZ grounding creates a zone where all conductive parts within
reach are at the same potential, preventing current flow through the worker if the line is
accidentally energized.
6. According to the NESC, what is the standard depth for a 40-foot wood pole set in firm soil?
A. 5.0 feet
B. 6.5 feet
C. 6.0 feet
D. 7.0 feet
Answer: C
