On a 20-amp branch circuit with three or more receptacles, the maximum cord- and plug-connected load permitted on any single duplex receptacle is:

• A. 12 A
• B. 16 A
• C. 18 A
• D. 20 A

Answer: (B)

On a 20-amp branch circuit that serves three or more receptacles, the cord- and plug-connected load on any single duplex receptacle is limited to 80% of the circuit rating. This provides headroom so the circuit isn’t overwhelmed when multiple receptacles are in use. Calculate 20 amps × 0.8 = 16 amps, so the maximum load allowed on one duplex receptacle is 16 amps. This limitation applies to cord-and-plug-connected loads and helps ensure safety across the circuit when several devices are plugged in.