Journeyman Certification Test

Journeyman Test Date

July 10 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

The Mesa Hotline School Journeyman Certification Test was developed in 1986 as a tool to assist the lineworker in his trade and demonstrate the person has the skill and knowledge needed to safely and competently work in the high voltage industry. Successful completion of this test verifies journey level competency which can be used when changing lineworker positions.

The employer must certify the applicant is functioning as a journeyman and has a minimum 8,500 hours working in the electric utility industry. This is a certification test, not a journeyman qualification test. That should be done through the employer.

The written test consists of over 300 questions, made up of true/false, multiple choice, short essay, equipment identification, match the phrase and transformer connections. Four hours are allotted for the written portion with a ten minute break every hour. After the written test, there is an oral exam consisting of ten questions covering the broad spectrum of electric utility work and components. Key items covered in the test are basic electrical theory (Ohm’s Law), metering, transmission, transformer connections, overhead and underground construction, CDL requirements, OSHA job briefing information, knots, first aid and safety. Any category associated with the electric utility industry is covered.

Reference books to study are: The Lineman’s and Cableman’s Handbook, Electrical Essentials for Powerline Workers (Thomson Delmar Learning Books), Ugly’s Book, the National Electric Safety Code, Duncan or GE Meter Book, Chance Hotsticking Book, Live Line Bare Hand Manual, Federal Motor Catalog, Distribution Transformer Theory for Line People Book, Tri-State SOP Manual and OSHA Regulations CFD 1910.269.

The comprehensive certification is recognized by all 67 members of Mesa Hotline School, as well as many other utilities in the western United States. It is administered free of charge to employees of Mesa Hotline School School members. The test was developed and is administered through the volunteer efforts of the members of MHLS.

So, take a positive step for your future and sign up for the next test session. The test is administered twice a year; January in Grand Junction, CO and July in Denver, CO, usually at a Tri-State G&T Headquarters. The testing time is usually a Wednesday during the middle of the month and takes most of the day. If you have any questions about this valuable service, please contact any of the Mesa Hotline School Board Members.