Abstract: Aiming at the problem that the multi-column parallel arrester requires a large capacity of the test instrument to measure the leakage current under 1 mA DC reference voltage U_{1 mA} and 0.75 times U_{1 mA},and there was an uncertain floating potential between the high-voltage flanges of the arrester during the measurement process, the test method of multi-column parallel arrester without removing the arrester body was carried out.The resistance divider method was proposed to reduce the differential pressure between the high-voltage flanges of the arrester and the output capacity of the DC high-voltage generator.The feasibility of measuring the DC parameters of multi-column parallel arresters by resistance divider method was demonstrated from three aspects: the potential difference of the high-voltage end flange of the arrester, the required test current and the measurement accuracy, which provide theoretical support and measurement guidance for the routine test of multi-column parallel arrester.