In answer to the original poster (as an apprentice myself), the test should be fairly basic stuff.
I would think the test should focus on areas such as:
Identifying material (whether on paper or in person)
Identifying pipes (EMT,PVC,GRC, etc. whatever you would most commonly use)
Identifying pipe sizes (should definately know the difference between 1/2" and 4")
Maybe a "hands on" test for terminating simple devices (single pole switch, receptacle, 3 and 4 way switches)
and bending pipe with a hand bender.
Probably the best thing to do is find someone who is dependable and has the desire to learn.
If they show the simple skills listed above then you have a good headstart and may be surpirsed what they pick up as they go along.
The company I work for got lucky when they found me (pats self on back
). They are constantly telling me how good I am and should be (with the proper training). I keep telling them all I want to do is jump in and get the experience.
I have the desire to learn and that should be what most of your search is focused on. Just try to find a good person who
wants to learn.
This is just my .02
(GA76Apprentice)
Philip