CET Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CET facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Accessibility & ADA Compliance for CET professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
2. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Governor & Overspeed Protection? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
3. Per ASME A17.1, the minimum conductor size permitted for elevator power circuits is: → 14 AWG, ensuring adequate current capacity and mechanical strength
4. What is the purpose of the terminal stopping device (final limit switch) in a traction elevator? → Stops the car if it passes beyond normal travel limits
5. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Modernization & Upgrades for CET professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
6. In Governor & Overspeed Protection, what is the FIRST step a CET professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
7. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Fire Service & Emergency Operations for CET professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
8. What is the standard minimum number of hoist ropes required for a traction elevator under ASME A17.1? → 3
9. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Door Operators & Interlocks? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
10. Which type of motor is commonly used in modern traction elevator systems? → AC gearless permanent magnet motor
11. What effect do worn sheave grooves have on elevator hoist rope life? → Reduce contact area and cause rapid rope fatigue and wear
12. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Fire Service & Emergency Operations? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
13. Which of the following wiring methods is NOT permitted in an elevator machine room per NEC Article 620? → Non-metallic sheathed cable (NM-B, commonly called Romex)
14. What is the function of the oil buffer in the elevator pit? → Absorbs kinetic energy to decelerate the car or counterweight
15. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Traction Elevator Mechanics for CET professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
16. In Fire Service & Emergency Operations, what is the FIRST step a CET professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
17. Per NEC 620.51, the main line disconnecting means for elevator equipment must be located: → In the machine room or machinery space, accessible only to qualified personnel
18. Which standard governs the design and installation requirements for elevator machine rooms in the United States? → ASME A17.1/CSA B44
19. What is the purpose of the counterweight guide rails? → Keep the counterweight traveling in a straight vertical path within the hoistway
20. Why is correct alignment of elevator rails critical? → To ensure smooth and safe travel
21. In Hydraulic Elevator Systems, what is the FIRST step a CET professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
22. Per NEC 620.22, elevator car lighting circuits must not exceed which voltage rating? → 120V to protect car occupants from high-voltage hazards
23. What minimum temperature must be maintained in an elevator machine room to protect electrical and mechanical components? → 50°F (10°C)
24. What is the purpose of the 'lockout/tagout' procedure? → To prevent accidental energizing during service
25. Which condition would most likely cause loss of traction in a traction elevator? → Overloaded car creating too large a traction ratio between loaded and unloaded rope sides
26. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Hydraulic Elevator Systems for CET professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
27. Which device is used in elevator systems for variable speed control of motors? → Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)
28. What is the purpose of 'rope clips' (Crosby clips) when used on elevator hoist rope installations? → Used for temporary field connections during rope installation or adjustment only
29. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Traction Elevator Mechanics? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
30. Per NEC 250.119, which color identifies the equipment grounding conductor in elevator wiring? → Green, green with yellow stripe, or bare copper