Here in Indiana, we don't have a state license. I was "grandfathered" in my local town from when your reputation and $35.00 got you licensed. I had worked for my dad, a couple of old, established electrical contractors and then for my father-in-law before obtaining my own local license. Then about 6 years ago the town passed an ordinance that required all new applicants to pass the Block Master Exam with a score of 85 or better in order to obtain an electrical contractor's license. You could still take a 50 question test and get a limited "Residential Wireman's License". I was grandfathered in and didn't have to take the Block test but wanted to anyway so I could say I did. Besides, other towns wouldn't reciprocate unless you had the Block Master's test on your resume. I ordered the Master's test prep book set from Tom Henry and studied religously for 3 months before taking the test. I passed it on my first attempt with a 89. I was the first one in my town to pass it and am still the only one to pass it on the first try.
I have to admit that while I knew my trade very well, I learned a lot about the NEC and how to use it through the Tom Henry materials. Now when an inspector questions something or makes an off the wall requirement I know exactly where to go in the code book to make my case on the matter.
Passing the Block Master's Exam is no small feat, but it doesn't mean you're an all-knowing electrical guru either. For me, the biggest benefit was fueling a desire to learn more and understand better everything about the trade. One of my "old electrician" mentors once told me that the stupidest man is the one who thinks he's reached the pinnacle of knowledge. He also told me not to worry about learning the tricks of the trade, just learn the trade. I was blessed to have had him to work under.
