Free Postal Exam 955 Study Guide and Practice Questions 2023
Jonathan Expert

Gabriel, Specialist in Exam Preparation at JobTestPrep.

Have a question? Contact me at ask_gabriel@jobtestprep.com

 

What Is the Postal Exam 955?

The Postal Exam 955, also known as the USPS Maintenance Test, is used to screen candidates applying to various USPS maintenance positions, such as Maintenance Mechanic, Electronic Technician, Building Equipment Mechanic, and more. The Exam is 75 minutes long and covers 8 content areas.

The test is based on the content and structure of the Ramsay Test known as the MultiCraft test.


What Is the Passing Score for the 955 Exam?

The minimum passing score for each of the Postal Exam 955 content areas is 70. If you fail to reach this score, you’ll receive an “Ineligible” status. A retest is usually possible only 6 months after your initial test date.


What Are the Sections of the USPS 955 Exam?

There are five basic parts to the 955 Exam:

  • Maintenance Mechanic
  • Maintenance Mechanic MPE
  • Electronics Technician
  • Building Equipment
  • Spatial Reasoning

The first three parts correlate directly to scores for the jobs of the same title.

Building Equipment correlates to both Building Equipment Mechanic (BEM9) and Area Maintenance Technician (AMT9) jobs.

The spatial reasoning portion of the test is a general topic that’s likely to apply to all test scores.

The five basic parts are divided into 8 content areas:

  • AC/DC Theory, Power Distribution, and Electrical Maintenance
  • Motors, Control Circuits, Schematics, and Print Reading
  • Digital Electronics, Power Supplies, Computers, PLC, and Test Instruments
  • Hydraulics and Pneumatics
  • Pumps, Piping, and Combustion
  • Power Transmission, Lubrication, Mechanical Maintenance, and Shop Machines.
  • Welding and Rigging
  • Spatial Relations and Spatial Reasoning - Matching Figures and Visualization.

How Hard Is the USPS 955 Exam?

The USPS 955 is a hard exam, as it requires solid theoretical and practical knowledge in a wide range of mechanical and electrical topics. Candidates with no experience in these fields will find the test harder. That being said, prior prep can help increase your chances of scoring high.


Let’s try some free USPS 955 exam questions to check your overall level of readiness.

USPS Maintenance Mechanic Practice Test Questions (Taken From the Complete PrepPack)

 

AC/DC Theory Sample Question

This is a predominantly theoretical section that revolves around the fundamentals of electricity. While simple for many candidates, those who have not dealt with electrical theory recently will often find this section problematic and will need a focused recap to ace it.

1. In a 110V electrical system, there are three appliances: appliance A (550W) appliance B (770W), and appliance C (330W). Given that all appliances operate simultaneously, what is the minimum required fuse rating?

Click the correct answer:

A. 30A
B. 25A
C. 20A
D. 15A
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is C.

The minimal fuse rating should be higher than the normal operating current of the system. Since an electrical system is connected in parallel, the total current in the system when all three appliances are working is the sum of all three.

The current consumption of each appliance is calculated by:

I = P/V

Where:

  • I = Current [Ampere]
  • P = Power [Watt]
  • V = Voltage [Volt]

Therefore:

  • Appliance A consumes 550/110 = 5A
  • Appliance B consumes 770/110 = 7A
  • Appliance C consumes 330/110 = 3A

The total current in the system is 5 + 7 + 3 = 15A

In order to withstand normal working conditions, the minimal fuse amperage rating must be greater than 15A, thus 20A.

Motors Sample Question

This is a relatively practical section, but theoretical knowledge of motor types and functionality is required as well.

2. In induction motors, the difference between the synchronous and asynchronous speed of the rotor is referred to as:

 
Click the correct answer:

A. Single phasing
B. Slip
C. No-load speed
D. None of the above
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is B.

Induction motors which are also called asynchronous motors work on the principle of induction which is inducing a current in the rotor by changing the magnetic field of the stator.

We can differentiate two definitions of speed in induction motors:

  • Synchronous speed – The speed of the changing magnetic field.
  • Asynchronous speed – The speed of the rotor (which is different from the synchronous speed).

The difference between these two is called slip. Therefore, B is the correct choice.

As for the other answers, single phasing (A) occurs when one of the motor terminals is loose or disconnected making the motor run on a single-phase. No-load speed of a motor (C) is the maximum speed of a motor when there is no load applied.

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"So worth the money! It gave me such confidence while taking my test. Many of the questions were the same or similar to the questions on the test. Looking forward to beginning my new career at USPS. Thank you."

Veronica M. On USPS 955 Exam

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Electric Circuits - Parallel Circuits Sample Question

With the advancement of technology, this section becomes increasingly important in the 955 test. It covers all levels of control circuits, from fundamental concepts to the advanced analysis of ladder diagrams.

3. Base your answer to the following question on the figure below:

Postal Exam 955 Sample Question Electrical Theory

What is the current flowing through R2?

Click the correct answer:

A. O.2 A
B. 5 A
C. 2 A
D. 20 A
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The voltage in a circuit with resistors connected in parallel is equal in all the resistors. Therefore, the current in R2 can be calculated through Ohm’s law (I = V/R):

I = 100 / 50 = 2 A

The correct answer is C.

PLC Sample Question

4. What is the equivalent Boolean expression for the PLC program below?

USPS Exam 955 Sample Question PLC

 
Click the correct answer:

C(AB+D)
C+D(A+B)
C+(AB)D
ABCD
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is A.

Below are the steps of analysis:

USPS Exam 955 Sample Question PLC Answer

Pass the 955 Postal Exam

Our in-house team, comprised of specialists in mechanics, electronics, and cognitive testing, works relentlessly to create the most accurate and comprehensive USPS exam 955 preparation around.

Each 955 maintenance exam prep test is thoroughly researched and frequently updated to ensure that you get the most accurate and thorough test practice available.

Over the past five years, we've helped over 4,500 candidates prepare for their USPS Exams. Your success could be next!

 

Test Instruments Sample Question

This section deals with electrical test instruments such as ammeters, meggers, and multimeters. While most candidates are familiar with the basic operation of these tools, the Postal Exam 955 test questions tend to be a bit more in-depth.

In electrical circuits, the voltmeter is always connected in ____________ and the ammeter is always connected in ____________.

 
Click the correct answer:

A. series, parallel
B. series, series
C. parallel, parallel
D. parallel, series
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is D.

In electrical circuits, voltmeters are always used in parallel to the nodes where the potential is required to be determined. However, ammeters are always connected in series to measure the desired current in the branches. These connections are shown in the figure below.

USPS 955 test instruments answer

Hydraulics and Pneumatics Sample Question

Hydraulics and pneumatics are two of the most prevalent topics in this test aimed at strictly mechanical positions. Apart from being familiar with practical methods and concepts, this section also deals a lot with theoretical knowledge. This makes this section a pain point for experienced candidates in particular.

Which type of valve should be used when a precise, low flow is required?

Click the correct answer:

A. Check
B. Needle
C. Gate
D. Both A and B
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is B.

A needle valve is constructed as an elongated, narrow plunger inside a small port. This structure enables the valve to regulate the flow with high precision. However, it is not capable of withstanding high pressure.

A check valve is a valve that enables flow in only one direction, using a ball, a piston, or a spring-loaded flapper.

A gate valve operates by lifting a gate from the path of the fluid. These gates are planar and are mostly used with high-volume, unrestricted flow.

Piping Sample Question

Which type of pipe would be most recommended to install deep beneath the ground?

Click the correct answer:

A. Schedule 20
B. Schedule 40
C. Schedule 80
D. Schedule 120
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is D.

The schedule of a pipe is a dimensionless number that refers to the wall thickness of a pipe. The higher the schedule; the thicker the wall.

When installing a pipe underground, it is important for it to have a thick wall due to the pressure of the soil and other structural elements that may lie on top of it. Therefore, a schedule 120 type pipe will be best suited for such an application.

Power Transmission Sample Question

This is another very prevalent mechanical topic. Although covering around 14 sub-topics (e.g., couplings, bearings, shafts, etc.), several sub-topics often constitute the majority of questions in this section, so they are more worthy of your attention.

What is the aim of flexible couplings?

Click the correct answer:

A. Reduce load from the motor
B. Allow shaft misalignment
C. Installation at various machinery parts
D. Amplify torque
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is B.

The aim of flexible couplings (such as universal joints or Oldham couplings) is to allow a certain degree of misalignment between connected shafts (it may be an axial, lateral, or angular misalignment). Rigid couplings, on the other hand, require absolute alignment between shafts and are somewhat limited in that manner.

"The prep exams were very good. The USPS Exam 955 test has so much on it, and the JobTestPrep exams did a great job explaining and showing examples of what to expect on the test." 

Eddie L. On USPS 955 Exam

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Spatial Visualization Sample Question

This part tests your ability to imagine what three-dimensional objects will look like after they have been rotated.

Two separate objects are placed at the center of the screen, each with a dot placed in one corner. The answer choices contain the same two objects, rotated in some way. Only one of the five options shows both the dots placed in the same corners as in the model.

Postal Exam 955 Spatial Reasoning Sample Question



Click the correct answer:

1. A
2. B
3. C
4. D
5. E
Correct Answer
Incorrect Answer

The correct answer is C.


Free USPS 955 Exam Answers

1 2 3 4 5
C B B A D
6 7 8 9  
B D B C  

Postal Exam 955 Study Guide PDFs

This section provides a comprehensive breakdown of the various USPS Maintenance test study guides included in the JobTestPrep preparation.

These guides include a thorough analysis of relevant concepts, detailed explanations, and helpful tips built to create solid theoretical and practical foundations in a wide range of mechanical and electrical topics. 

Mechanical and Electrical Comprehension 955 Exam Study Guide
This guide provides the theory behind Mechanical and Electrical concepts along with a detailed analysis of common questions and tips that can help you solve them with ease.


LOCKOUT/TAGOUT Procedures USPS Exam 955 Study Guide 
Lockout/tagout is the most important safety concept in the workplace. It is the procedure that controls hazardous energy during processes like maintenance and inspection. This guide walks you through the steps of the lockout procedure.


Spatial Reasoning USPS 955 Exam Study Guide
The aim of Spatial Reasoning questions is to examine your orientation skills in a two-dimensional space. This short guide will provide helpful tips on how to solve common spatial questions.


Welding 955 Exam Study Guide
This guide breaks down common welding tools and concepts. Inside, you’ll find detailed explanations of Arc Welding, Air Carbon-Arc Cutting, Gas Welding, and much more.

Hydraulics Postal Exam 955 Study Guide 
Inside the hydraulics guide, you will find information on Hydraulics tools and concepts, including Basic hydraulics, Pumps (like the Piston and Vane Pump), Valves (Like Selector Valves and Relief Valves), etc.


Rigging USPS 955 Study Guide
The rigging study guide dives deep into Rigging tools and concepts. You will find a wealth of information and a full breakdown of Basic Scaffolds and Ladders, Cranes and Hoists, Crane Types, Block and Tackle as well as much more.


Power Transmission Postal 955 Study Guide
This guide will help you learn more about power transmission tools and concepts like Bearings, Gears, Belt Drives, and much more.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between USPS Exam 955 and The USPS Maintenance Mechanic 933 Test?

The USPS 933, along with the 931 and the 932 versions, were previously used to screen candidates applying for maintenance positions. These exams were replaced by the 955, which became the official USPS exam for maintenance applicants.

 

What Is the Postal Exam 718?

This exam is commonly used by the USPS to assess the computer skills of candidates applying for clerk, secretary, and assistant positions.

 

Is There a Drug Screening Clearance Test as Part of The USPS 955 Hiring Process?

To get hired, you must pass a 5-panel urine drug test. The USPS is strict about this issue and will turn down many qualified applicants because of the drug test, making it their biggest hurdle in finding employees.

Helpful Links

Are you applying for other jobs at the USPS? Learn more about their postal exams here:

 

 

About the Author:

 

Jonathan Expert

Jonathan, Specialist in Exam Preparation at JobTestPrep.

Have a question? Contact me at ask_jonathan@jobtestprep.com

 

 

 

 

 

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