Electrical Capstone Exam Preparation Tips

The Electrical Capstone Assessment is one of the final steps in your journey to becoming a licensed electrician in Western Australia. If you’re currently completing your apprenticeship through the College of Electrical Training (CET) or you are hosted by Electrical Group Training (EGT), this guide will help you prepare with confidence.

What Is the Electrical Capstone Assessment?

In Western Australia, the Capstone Assessment is a licensing requirement set by Energy Safety WA (part of Building and Energy). It is designed to assess whether you’re ready to work safely and independently as a qualified electrician.

The Capstone typically consists of two parts:

Theoretical Assessment

This includes multiple-choice and written questions covering Australian Standards, wiring rules (AS/NZS 3000), electrical theory, and safety practices.

Practical Assessment

You’ll be required to demonstrate real-world electrical skills, including fault finding, testing procedures, circuit installation, and compliance checks.

The assessment is usually conducted over one or two days and must be completed at an approved Registered Training Organisation, such as CET.

How Hard Is the Electrical Capstone?

The capstone assessment is designed to test the knowledge and skills that are integral to becoming an electrician. Your apprenticeship training should prepare you for the assessment, however, it isn’t necessarily easy. The difficulty comes from the breadth of knowledge required and the pressure of performing under exam conditions. Common areas where candidates struggle include:

• Remembering testing procedures and sequences
• Practical troubleshooting under pressure
• Remembering regulations such as WAER and wiring rules
• Time management during the practical task

The Capstone is deliberately tough because it’s meant to reflect the responsibility that comes with being a licensed electrician. But with the right preparation, it’s absolutely achievable. CET trainers often advise treating the Capstone like a “worksite under exam conditions”—you’re expected to think clearly, follow correct procedures, and apply your training like a real tradesperson.

How to Study for the Capstone Exam

Preparing for your Capstone takes more than just flicking through notes the night before. Here’s how to give yourself the best chance of success:

1. Create a Study Plan

Break your revision into manageable sections and schedule study sessions over several weeks. Focus on:

• Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000)
• Testing procedures
• Electrical formulas and theory
• Safety regulations and fault-finding techniques

2. Use Official Study Materials

Rely on up-to-date resources like:

• The Capstone Assessment Preparation Guide provided by your RTO
• AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules
• Electrical Principles books
• CET’s e-learning tool 

3. Practice Past Questions

If your training provider offers mock exams or practice papers, do them under timed conditions. This will help you get used to the format and identify any weak areas.

4. Brush Up on Practical Skills

Spend time in the workshop where possible. Review:

• Continuity, polarity, insulation resistance, and earth loop testing
• Installing socket outlets and lighting circuits
• Using correct PPE and documentation

What Happens if You Fail the Electrical Capstone?

Failing the Capstone can be disappointing, but it doesn’t mean the end of your journey.

Immediate Outcome:
You’ll receive a 'not yet competent' result and feedback on the specific areas that need improvement. You won’t be eligible for your license until the assessment is successfully completed.

Can you resit the Capstone?
Yes. You’ll need to re-enrol through your training provider and may be required to complete a refresher course before retaking the exam. CET offers targeted support for re-sitters, including focused workshops and mentoring.

Cost of Resitting
There may be additional costs involved in resitting the assessment, depending on your provider and the number of components you need to retake. It’s best to confirm this directly with your training provider.

Support for resitters
If you’re hosted through EGT, you can also speak with your Field Officer about additional support or extension of hosting arrangements to accommodate your resit.

Electrical Capstone Revision Tips

• Use the Wiring Rules Daily
• Don’t just memorise the book—learn how to quickly find and interpret relevant clauses.
• Visual Learning Helps
• Create wiring diagrams, flowcharts for testing procedures, or flashcards for theory questions.
• Simulate Exam Conditions - Practice completing tasks within a set time. Wear your PPE, use the correct forms, and treat it like a real job.
• Ask for Feedback - Don’t wait until the Capstone to learn you’re doing something wrong. Ask your trainer or host employer for feedback on your procedures or documentation habits.

Support for EGT apprentices

As WA’s largest employer of electrical apprentices, EGT ensures that you have access to:

• On-the-job experience aligned with Capstone requirements
• Mentorship from experienced tradespeople
• Support from your Field Officer

Final Tips

The Capstone Assessment is a big milestone, but it’s one you’ve been training for throughout your apprenticeship. Preparation is key. Make the most of the resources from CET and EGT, lean on your peers and trainers for support, and approach the exam with a clear, confident mindset.

With the right strategy and focus, you’ll be on your way to becoming a licensed electrician in no time.