2382-26 vs 2382-22: What the New 18th Edition Exam Means for You
The City & Guilds 2382-26 is the new exam for the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, replacing the 2382-22 from October 2026. Both exams run in parallel for six months, giving you time to plan your transition.
Key Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Amendment 4 published (BS 7671:2018+A4:2026) | 15 April 2026 |
| 2382-26 exam available | 15 April 2026 |
| Parallel period (both exams available) | 15 April -- 15 October 2026 |
| 2382-22 withdrawn | 16 October 2026 |
| Only 2382-26 available | 16 October 2026 onwards |
What Changed Between 2382-22 and 2382-26
The 2382-26 exam covers everything in the 2382-22 plus the technical changes introduced by Amendment 4:
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) -- new Section 551 covering domestic and commercial battery installations
- ICT and Data Network Earthing -- updated guidance on earthing arrangements for structured cabling and data networks
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) -- new requirements for PoE installations, covering cable sizing and thermal management
- Medical Locations -- revised Section 710 with updated requirements for Group 1 and Group 2 medical locations
- Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) -- expanded guidance on where AFDDs are recommended or required
The exam format and pass mark remain the same. The additional content reflects the new sections and amendments in BS 7671:2018+A4:2026.
Who Needs to Take Action
If You Already Hold a 2382-22 Certificate
Your certificate remains valid. You do not need to resit. However:
- Employers and competent person schemes (NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA) may require you to demonstrate current knowledge of Amendment 4
- Gold Card applicants will need Amendment 4 knowledge after October 2026
- A one-day update course is the most efficient way to get current
If You Are Studying the 18th Edition for the First Time
- Courses starting after 15 April 2026 at Learn Trade Skills include all Amendment 4 content
- You will sit the 2382-26 exam, not the 2382-22
- The course duration and price are the same -- three days at LTS
If You Are Currently Enrolled on a 2382-22 Course
- Complete your course and exam before 15 October 2026
- Your 2382-22 certificate will be valid
- You can take the Amendment 4 update course later if needed
What LTS Offers
| Course | Duration | Who It's For |
|---|---|---|
| 18th Edition (full, includes Amendment 4) | 3 days | First-time students, career changers |
| Amendment 4 Update | 1 day | Existing 2382-22 holders |
All courses are City & Guilds accredited and taught at our Cheshunt training centre. View 18th Edition course details and upcoming dates.
How to Prepare
- Check your current certificate -- if it says 2382-22, you have until October 2026 before the new standard becomes the only option
- Talk to your employer or scheme -- ask whether they require the 2382-26 exam code or accept an update course
- Book early -- demand for Amendment 4 courses will peak between April and October 2026 as the deadline approaches
- Read the complete Amendment 4 guide for full details on every technical change
Last updated: 5 April 2026. Learn Trade Skills is a City & Guilds accredited training centre offering 18th Edition courses including Amendment 4 content. Book a free consultation to discuss your options.