Utility trades aptitude test (EEI CAST and CAST-R)
Practice the EEI CAST at full length
Two complete practice tests in the format of EEI’s CAST-R: 16 drawing questions, 44 mechanical picture questions and 32 reading questions, each section on its own clock. A worked answer for every question.
Utilities use the CAST to screen applicants for line, substation, meter and other trade jobs. Section scores combine into an index score from 1 to 10, and each employer sets its own cutoff (source). Practice at real speed first.
What’s inside
- Tests
- Two complete practice exams in the CAST-R format, each 92 questions over three timed sections
- Graphic Arithmetic
- 16 questions per test on two dimensioned drawings (floor plans, plates, lots and pipe runs) in 30 minutes. Five choices, including “None of these.”
- Mechanical Concepts
- 44 picture questions per test in 20 minutes: gears, belts, levers, pulleys, ramps, liquids and pressure, heat, springs, motion and circuits. Three choices each.
- Reading
- 32 questions per test on four passages about power, safety and utility work, in 30 minutes
- Feedback
- Your score by section and by skill, a list of what to practice, and a worked answer for every question
- Checking
- Every numeric answer was recomputed by code, and every answer was confirmed by an independent check that never saw the answer key.
How it works
- Try the free sampleFourteen questions from all three sections, scored with worked answers.
- Take a full test coldFind out which skills cost you points at real speed, especially in the 20-minute mechanical section.
- Practice, then retestWork on your weakest skills, then take the second test to see the change.
Start where you are
Not sure yet? Take the free 14-question sample first. It covers all three sections.
Questions
Are these the real test questions?
No. EEI’s questions are confidential. Every question here is original, written to match the format EEI describes for the CAST-R (brochure), and checked before it was published.
Is this for the CAST or the CAST-R?
Both use the same three ability sections covered here: Graphic Arithmetic, Mechanical Concepts and Reading for Comprehension. The CAST-R adds a Work Preferences Inventory, which asks about your work style and has no right answers. The original CAST also had a short Mathematical Usage section (18 questions in 7 minutes), which these tests don’t include.
Can I use a calculator?
On the CAST-R, a calculator is allowed only in Graphic Arithmetic (source). Practice the same way: the other two sections need no math beyond a quick comparison.
How is it scored?
Each section is scored by the number of questions you get right, with no penalty for guessing. EEI combines the section scores into an index score from 1 to 10, and each employer decides what score it needs.
How do I get the tests after I pay?
Checkout redirects you straight to your tests. That page is your access link, so bookmark it. You’ll also get a receipt by email, and if you ever lose the link, email us and we’ll send it.
Can I use my phone?
Yes. The tests work on phones, tablets and computers. The drawings are easiest to read on a larger screen.
Will this guarantee I pass?
No practice test can promise that, and we won’t. What it does is show you, at real speed, which kinds of question cost you points, with a worked answer for each one.
What if it isn’t for me?
Email us within 30 days for a full refund. No questions asked. See the refund policy.