Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test

Entry test for the Experienced Worker Assessment

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This new test is for experienced professionals who typically have at least 10 years’ experience working as an electrician (excluding any time spent in training) but do not yet hold a Level 2 or Level 3 electrical qualification.

Passing this test will allow you entry onto one of the two Experienced Worker Assessment routes. 

This test is not a short cut into the EWA – it is a Level 3 equivalent test. It is not suitable for those who do not have significant experience. 

The test can be taken during one of the four assessment periods throughout the year at an NICEIC training centre. The next assessment period is July 2025.

To register your interest please complete the enquiry form below.

Price: £140 (£168 inc VAT)

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How do I apply for the Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test?

Step 1: check you are eligible. Before you start, we recommend checking that you are eligible for the Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test and your chosen EWA route. You can use the Skills Scan to review the experience requirements. Please also check you that you’ll be able to generate the workplace evidence within 18 months.  

Skills Scan for Domestic Electrician EWA route 

Skills scan for Installation Electrician EWA route

Step 2: confirm you have all the knowledge you need for the test. If you feel you’re eligible, review the EWA Entry Test Information to confirm you have all the underpinning knowledge required for the test. This will be verified by NICEIC as part of the application process.  

Step 3: contact NICEIC to arrange a follow-up technical discussion to review and verify your Skills Scan and Candidate Background Form. We will validate your eligibility for the test and submit an application on your behalf to TESP. 

Step 4: get approval from TESP and book your test date. We will provide you with your approval from TESP and book your test date for you. Test dates are available during four windows throughout the year. 

Step 5: after successfully completing your test, you can apply for your chosen EWA route. After successfully completing the Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test, there are two requirements to progress with either of the two EWA routes: 

  1. You must enrol on the relevant Experienced Worker Qualification route within six months. 
  2. You must be able to generate the workplace evidence within the 18-month timescale.  

 NICEIC is here to support you as you progress through your chosen EWA route.  


Why get qualified now? 

With the EWA, you can formalise your skills and take advantage of new career opportunities faster than you might expect. In just a few months, you can be ready to apply for your ECS Gold Card, allowing you to: 

  • Work on larger contracts and higher-value projects that specify ECS cards as mandatory 
  • Earn more as a fully qualified electrician 
  • Gain recognition and credibility with clients and employers. 

Achieving the EWA also meets the learner entry requirements for registration on Electrician Plus-aligned qualifications. These meet the mandatory technical competence requirements for qualified supervisors and employed persons responsible for the installation of low carbon and renewable technologies. 

This can open up new business opportunities in fast-growing sectors such as electric vehicle (EV) charging installation, solar PV and electric energy storage systems (EESS). 

Successfully completing the EWA also opens doors to NICEIC certification. Once you’re qualified, we’ll support your application to join a range of NICEIC schemes, and help you gain status as an NICEIC qualified supervisor (QS), a key credential in the electrical industry. 

Flexible payment options 

Investing in your career is a big decision and a big financial outlay. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans to help spread the cost. 

You can start your journey today with manageable payments over time. 

Secure your future 

Don’t wait any longer to secure your future. With the EWA, you can become fully qualified in just a few months, boost your career prospects, and earn the industry-recognised ECS Gold Card. 

Call us now or fill out the form below to take the first step. 

Enquire today

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Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test FAQs

The new EAL Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test offers electricians with substantial experience the opportunity to gain a Level 3 equivalent qualification. This will allow you to progress onto the Experienced Worker Assessment.
If the test is failed, you can re-sit twice. Resits must be taken within the same test window as the original sitting. If these are failed, you cannot re-register for either test for 12 months.
The price is £140 + VAT.
EAL currently offers four assessment periods throughout the year. These are in February, May, July and October. The test must be taken at an NICEIC training centre, and NICEIC will book the test date on your behalf. Please note that you need to meet the eligibility criteria to take this test.
You can sit the test at NICEIC's training centres in Dunstable and Chesterfield.
The NICEIC CPD hub pulls together all our exclusive CPD resources for certified businesses. Access the latest episode of The Wire, download the new issue of Connections, or learn about new training opportunities, all in one place.

The ACE Electrical channel on learninglounge.com is an alternative resource for experienced workers seeking refresher training and exam preparation. Please note this is not an NICEIC resource – the current price is £4.99/month.