2026–2027 | Comprehensive 150-
Question Practice Test with Answers &
Rationales| Free Pdf Access.
Question 1
What is the maximum steam pressure allowed for a low-pressure boiler in New Jersey
A) 5 psi
B) 10 psi
C) 15 psi
D) 30 psi
Answer C) 15 psi
Explanation: Per New Jersey Administrative Code 12:90, a low-pressure steam boiler is
defined as one that does not exceed 15 pounds per square inch (psi) steam pressure. Any
boiler operating above this threshold is classified as high-pressure and requires a Blue Seal
license or higher. This is a fundamental distinction tested on the Black Seal exam.
Question 2
What is the maximum water temperature and pressure for a low-pressure hot water
boiler in New Jersey
A) 200°F and 100 psi
B) 212°F and 150 psi
,C) 250°F and 160 psi
D) 300°F and 200 psi
Answer C) 250°F and 160 psi
Explanation: New Jersey regulations define a low-pressure hot water boiler as one that
does not exceed 250°F and 160 psi. These limits are separate from the steam boiler limits
and are essential knowledge for the Black Seal license examination. Exceeding either value
reclassifies the boiler as high-pressure.
Question 3
Which New Jersey statute establishes licensing requirements for boiler operators
A) NJSA 34:1-38.1
B) N.J.S.A 34:7-14
C) NJAC 12:90-8.4
D) ASME Section IV
Answer B) N.J.S.A 34:7-14
Explanation: N.J.S.A 34:7-14 is the statutory law that establishes licensing requirements for
stationary, power, and refrigeration engineers and boiler operators in New Jersey. NJAC
12:90 is the administrative regulation that implements these statutory requirements, and
both are important references for the exam.
Question 4
What is the minimum experience required to apply for a Black Seal boiler operator
license
A) One month as a helper
B) Three months as a helper or apprentice to a licensed operator
,C) Six months as a helper
D) One year as a licensed operator
Answer B) Three months as a helper or apprentice to a licensed operator
Explanation: NJAC 12:90-8.4 requires that applicants for the Black Seal license have at
least three months of experience as a helper, apprentice, or assistant to a licensed operator
of the equipment. The Bureau may request verification through boiler operator logs during
the application process.
Question 5
What is the maximum horsepower a Black Seal licensed operator may operate in New
Jersey
A) 50 horsepower
B) 100 horsepower
C) 150 horsepower
D) Unlimited
Answer B) 100 horsepower
Explanation: The Black Seal license authorizes the holder to operate low-pressure boilers
up to 100 horsepower. Boilers exceeding this capacity generally require a higher-level
license, and a boiler operator log is required for facilities with over 100 horsepower.
Question 6
What is the maximum penalty for operating a boiler with an expired Black Seal license
A) $500
B) $1,000
, C) $5,000
D) $10,000
Answer C) $5,000
*Explanation: Performing the duties of a licensed operator with an expired license carries
a maximum penalty of $5,000. The penalty range is from a minimum of $500 to a
maximum of $5,000, making this a serious violation that requires prompt license
renewal.*
Question 7
How often must boilers over 100 horsepower be inspected internally and externally in
New Jersey
A) Every 6 months
B) Annually
C) Every 2 years
D) Every 3 years
Answer B) Annually
Explanation: New Jersey regulations mandate that boilers over 100 horsepower undergo
both internal and external inspection annually by an authorized inspector. This
requirement ensures the pressure vessel remains safe and compliant with state codes.
Question 8
How often should safety valves be tested on low-pressure boilers in New Jersey
A) Daily
B) Weekly