Failed EVT twice — what am I missing in my study approach? — Forums

Nicole F.OP

May 27, 2026

So I'm at my wit's end here. I've taken the EVT exam twice now and failed both times, scoring in the low 60s when I need a 70 to pass. I've been an elevator mechanic apprentice for two years and honestly thought my field experience would carry me further than it has. The theory sections are killing me — especially the electrical code stuff and hydraulic systems.

My current approach has been reading through the NEIEP materials and doing random practice questions online, but I don't think it's structured enough. A coworker suggested I find a dedicated EVT practice test that mirrors the actual exam format, which makes sense since I need to get used to how the questions are worded. Has anyone found a study guide that actually covers the ASME A17.1 code sections in depth? That feels like my weakest area.

I've got about 8 weeks before I can sit for it again. Planning to put in maybe 10 hours a week. Is that realistic to go from a 64 to a 70+? Any advice from people who've been through this would be seriously appreciated.

Chloe W.

May 27, 2026

I was in almost the exact same spot — failed once at 67, passed on my second retake with a 74. The biggest thing for me was drilling code questions specifically. ASME A17.1 has so many little exceptions and the exam loves to test those edge cases. I spent probably 60% of my study time just on code and electrical theory. Also, timed practice is huge — I was running out of time on the real thing until I started timing myself strictly.

Amanda H.

May 28, 2026

Honestly the wording on the EVT is its own skill. I noticed a lot of questions have two answers that are *almost* right, and you have to pick the most correct one per code. Once I understood that pattern, my practice scores jumped like 8 points. What study guide are you using currently? I found that some of the free stuff online has outdated material that doesn't match the current exam objectives, which can actually hurt you more than help.

Brian Y.

May 28, 2026

8 weeks and 10 hours a week is totally doable, don't stress. I passed with 3 weeks of focused prep. Just be consistent and don't cram everything the night before — your brain needs time to actually retain the code stuff. You've got this.

Failed EVT twice — what am I missing in my study approach?

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