Direct Answer
The CAST test and IBEW aptitude test are different exams for different careers. CAST is for utility company jobs (lineman, substation technician). IBEW is for union electrician apprenticeships. If you’re applying to a utility company, take the CAST. If you’re applying to an IBEW local, take the IBEW/NJATC test.
CAST Test vs IBEW Aptitude Test
A side-by-side comparison of two different exams for two different electrical careers.
| EEI CAST Test | IBEW Aptitude Test | |
|---|---|---|
| Used by | Electric utility companies | IBEW union locals (JATCs) |
| Administrator | Edison Electric Institute (EEI) | NJATC or GAN HR |
| Career path | Lineman, substation tech, utility apprentice | Inside wireman electrician |
| Sections | Math, Reading, Mechanical, Figural Reasoning | Algebra/Math, Reading Comprehension |
| Questions | ~120 questions across 4 sections | 69 questions (33 math + 36 reading) |
| Scoring | Percentile-based, varies by company | 1–9 scale, minimum 4 to qualify |
| Calculator | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Avg salary (BLS) | $94,000+ (linemen) | $61,000–$100,000+ (journeyman) |
Which Should You Take?
Take the CAST if…
- ✓ You're applying to a utility company (ComEd, PG&E, Duke Energy)
- ✓ You want to become a lineman or substation technician
- ✓ You're interested in transmission and distribution work
Take the IBEW test if…
- ✓ You're applying to an IBEW local for an inside wireman apprenticeship
- ✓ You want to do commercial and industrial electrical work
- ✓ You're applying through a JATC (Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CAST test the same as the IBEW aptitude test?
No — they are different exams for different careers. The EEI CAST (Construction and Skilled Trades) test is used by electric utility companies like ComEd, PG&E, and Duke Energy to hire linemen and substation technicians. The IBEW aptitude test is used by IBEW union locals to screen applicants for electrician apprenticeships. The career paths and employers are different.
Which test is harder — CAST or IBEW?
They are similar in difficulty but cover different content. The CAST test includes figural reasoning (spatial visualization) in addition to math, reading, and mechanical concepts. The IBEW test focuses heavily on algebra and has a strict time limit. Most test-takers find the IBEW math section (algebra without a calculator) harder than the CAST math section.
Can I work for a utility company with an IBEW card?
Yes — many utility companies employ IBEW members, particularly IBEW utility locals (separate from inside wireman locals). However, IBEW utility locals and inside wireman locals use different aptitude tests. Utility locals often use the CAST test, while inside wireman locals use the NJATC aptitude test. Check your specific local's requirements.
What companies use the EEI CAST test?
Major electric utilities that use the EEI CAST include ComEd, PG&E, Con Edison, Duke Energy, Eversource, Dominion Energy, Ameren, and many others. The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) licenses the CAST to member utilities for hiring linemen, substation technicians, and apprentice electricians.