There is no way you can test a CB. If it feels hard to turn on compared to other breakers of the same size then change it to be safe.

I agree with Joed. most bad circuit breakers will not reset. A tripping problem could be a loose conection of the wire on the breaker creating it to arc and draw more heat and current, this would make it keep tripping also. I would repace also just to be safe. If you are not that experienced it would be hard for you to know all the signs or what to look for.. Good luck.....

1. DENERGIZE THEN visually inspect for any arcing, heat damage, warm spots, arcs on contact to bus. I use my cheeks to feel the infra red energy on (of course)just de-energized breakers.

2. shake it. loose parts means it falling apart. Not just a stranded wire moving, but the sound of solid moving components. If it is hard to snap it is toasted. If it won't reset it is most likely hot from a time overload, or the fault is still present.

3. Substation breakers are often tested by pros in industrial jobs using a current transformer. The precise instantaneous magnetic and overload trip thresholds are calibrated.

Hardly worth the trouble for a 20 amp $10.00

home breaker.

4. Most Important is NEVER BLAME the fuse or breaker for your wiring problems. Why did it burn up is the question.