Do I have to take a written exam?
Yes. There is a 25 question written exam with a 2 hour time limit. The test is based on the scope of your project and the current edition of the NEC.

Where do I take the electrical homeowner exam?
You must come to 700 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC. This is currently the only place the electrical homeowner exam is given.

Can I be denied a homeowner's permit?
Yes. The Department may deny the issuance of electrical permits to homeowners under any one of the following circumstances:

• There is reason to believe the proposed electrical work will be done by someone other than the owner.
• There is reason to believe the property is or will be sold on the completion of the electrical work.
• There is a reputable presumption that the property is or will be sold on the completion of the electrical work if the applicant, within the prior five years, has sold his or her home and the electrical work for said home was performed by the applicant under a homeowner's permit.
• Previous homeowner electrical permits have not been completed in compliance with the Code.
• The owner is temporarily residing in the home.
• If the homeowner is found to have at any time violated or falsified any of the above items, they shall immediately cease all electrical work, forfeit the homeowner's permit, and obtain a registered electrical contractor to complete the electrical work in compliance with the job.

When can I take the homeowner's exam?
You must call in advance to schedule the exam. Please call 704-336-3521 or 704-432-1775 for an appointment.

What if I do not get a permit to do my own wiring?
If your home has a fire or if someone is hurt as a result of work that has not been permitted or inspected, your insurance company could refuse to pay for the damages. When you sell your home, the buyer could hire a home inspector. If they discover you did work without permits and inspections, you could lose the sale of the home or be required to get permits and inspections before completing the sale.

Can I have someone else do my wiring for me after I get my permit?
NO. The homeowner permit is for you personally to do your own wiring. you are not allowed to get someone else to do the work for you.

Can my permit be revoked?
Yes, if your work is failed more than 2 times, the electrical inspector at his/her discretion may require you to stop work and hire a qualified electrical contractor to complete the job.

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