Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

The minimum size kitchen counter that requires a receptacle is 12 inches. This is based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, which stipulate that any countertop surface that is 12 inches or wider must have an accessible electrical outlet. This ensures that appliances can be conveniently plugged in during food preparation tasks, adhering to safety and convenience standards in kitchen design.

Counters that are less than 12 inches, while they may be functional surfaces, do not typically accommodate the use of countertop appliances, making the need for electrical receptacles unnecessary. The 12-inch requirement helps in preventing clutter and maintaining a clean working area, while promoting safety by ensuring appliances can be used without dangerous extension cords.