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NCCER Electrical Level 1 - Module 5
Introduction to the NEC (National
Electric Code) | Exam Questions and
Answers 2025
What should an apprentice do first before using the NEC to look up an installation rule?
Check the Table of Contents or Index to figure out which article or section talks about the
type of work you're doing. Saves time instead of flipping through everything.
A journeyman says the NEC is a how-to guide for wiring. Is that correct?
Not exactly. The NEC sets the minimum safety standards, but it doesn’t tell you step-by-
step how to install stuff. It’s more about what’s required to keep things safe.
You’re wiring a new kitchen and need to check outlet spacing. Where would that info likely be?
Article 210, because that covers branch circuits and general rules for receptacles in living
spaces like kitchens.
Why is the NEC updated every 3 years?
To keep up with new tech, materials, and safety practices. Stuff changes fast in this trade, so
the Code needs to keep up too.
Is the NEC a federal law?
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Nope, it’s not a law by itself. But local or state governments can adopt it into law, which
means you legally have to follow it in those areas.
A contractor says to ignore the NEC for a small job. What should you do?
Bad idea. Even small jobs have to meet code. Following the NEC protects you and the
people using the system.
Your boss asks you to find the rule for grounding a receptacle. What should you use first?
The Index at the back of the NEC. It’ll list all the topics and where to find them, way
quicker than guessing.
What does "NFPA 70" mean in relation to the NEC?
That’s the official document number for the NEC. It’s published by the NFPA (National Fire
Protection Association).
If you're unsure what a code word means in the NEC, what should you do?
Check Article 100 — it’s got all the definitions for terms used in the Code.
What does “shall” mean when used in the NEC?
It means it’s mandatory. If the Code says “shall,” you don’t have a choice — you’ve got to
follow it.
Why is it important to know the difference between “shall” and “should” in the NEC?
NCCER Electrical Level 1 - Module 5
Introduction to the NEC (National
Electric Code) | Exam Questions and
Answers 2025
What should an apprentice do first before using the NEC to look up an installation rule?
Check the Table of Contents or Index to figure out which article or section talks about the
type of work you're doing. Saves time instead of flipping through everything.
A journeyman says the NEC is a how-to guide for wiring. Is that correct?
Not exactly. The NEC sets the minimum safety standards, but it doesn’t tell you step-by-
step how to install stuff. It’s more about what’s required to keep things safe.
You’re wiring a new kitchen and need to check outlet spacing. Where would that info likely be?
Article 210, because that covers branch circuits and general rules for receptacles in living
spaces like kitchens.
Why is the NEC updated every 3 years?
To keep up with new tech, materials, and safety practices. Stuff changes fast in this trade, so
the Code needs to keep up too.
Is the NEC a federal law?
, 2
Nope, it’s not a law by itself. But local or state governments can adopt it into law, which
means you legally have to follow it in those areas.
A contractor says to ignore the NEC for a small job. What should you do?
Bad idea. Even small jobs have to meet code. Following the NEC protects you and the
people using the system.
Your boss asks you to find the rule for grounding a receptacle. What should you use first?
The Index at the back of the NEC. It’ll list all the topics and where to find them, way
quicker than guessing.
What does "NFPA 70" mean in relation to the NEC?
That’s the official document number for the NEC. It’s published by the NFPA (National Fire
Protection Association).
If you're unsure what a code word means in the NEC, what should you do?
Check Article 100 — it’s got all the definitions for terms used in the Code.
What does “shall” mean when used in the NEC?
It means it’s mandatory. If the Code says “shall,” you don’t have a choice — you’ve got to
follow it.
Why is it important to know the difference between “shall” and “should” in the NEC?
