Guides › Cost
Short answer: the state fees are cheap — about $165 total — but the required reference books and any prep course are where the real money goes. Here's the full breakdown.
| Exam fee (PSI) | ~$90 |
|---|---|
| License fee (NCBEEC) | ~$75 |
| 2020 NEC, softbound | ~$120–220 |
| NASCLA NC Electrical 13th ed. | ~$90–95 |
| Book tabs / highlighters (optional) | ~$15–40 |
| Prep course (optional) | $0 (self-study) – $550 |
Fees and book prices change — always confirm current amounts with the NC Board, PSI, and the booksellers. See our verified book list for the exact editions and ISBNs.
Keeping the license active requires 4 hours of approved continuing education each year before your license expires, plus the annual renewal fee. Budget a small recurring cost for CE.
The most common money-waster isn't the fees — it's buying the wrong book. The loose-leaf NEC isn't allowed at the testing center, the NEC Handbook costs more than you need, and a non-NC NASCLA guide won't match the law questions. Our Books page lists the exact, verified editions so you buy once.
153 practice questions, each citing the NEC article — no signup, no cost.
Go to the Practice Exam →Related: How hard is the SP-PH exam? · How to get the SP-PH license · SP-PH vs SP-FALV