What you need to do to get a license

Becoming a licensed electrician requires completing an apprenticeship, passing exams, and meeting your state's specific hour and experience requirements. The path takes between four and five years from start to finish. You will work under a licensed electrician while you learn, attend classroom instruction, and eventually take a licensing exam administered by your state or local jurisdiction.

The exact steps and timelines vary by state. Some states require 8,000 hours of on-the-job training; others require 10,000. Some allow you to test after four years; others require five. Your state's electrical licensing board sets these rules, and you will need to check with them directly to know what applies where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • You must complete a registered apprenticeship program that combines paid work experience with classroom instruction, typically lasting four to five years.
  • Your state's electrical licensing board sets the exact hour requirements, exam content, and fees — these differ significantly between states.
  • You will need to pass a written exam covering electrical code, safety, and practical knowledge before you can hold a license.
  • Most states require you to work under a licensed electrician during your apprenticeship and to document your hours through your employer or apprenticeship program.

Finding and entering an apprenticeship program

An apprenticeship is a job, not a school. You are hired by an electrical contractor or union, paid while you work, and sent to classroom instruction on a set schedule — usually one or two nights per week or one week per year, depending on the program structure. The contractor or union sponsors your apprenticeship and registers it with your state's apprenticeship office.

To find an apprenticeship, contact the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) local union in your area, or search the U.S. Department of Labor's apprenticeship database at apprenticeship.gov. Non-union contractors also hire apprentices; you can find them through your state's electrical licensing board, local trade schools, or by calling electrical companies directly. Some trade schools partner with contractors and can refer you to open positions.

Most programs require you to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Some require a driver's license. A few ask for basic math and reading assessments. You will likely interview with the contractor or union, and they will decide whether to hire you.

What happens during your apprenticeship

You will spend most of your time on job sites learning from licensed electricians. You start with basic tasks — running wire, installing boxes, learning safety — and gradually move to more complex work like reading blueprints, troubleshooting circuits, and installing systems. Your employer documents your hours and the types of work you perform.

Classroom instruction covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), safety standards, and local code requirements. Union programs typically hold classes one night per week during the school year. Non-union programs vary; some meet weekly, others block instruction into one week per year. You pay for classes in some programs; others are covered by your employer or union dues.

You must maintain a record of your hours. Union apprentices have this tracked automatically. Non-union apprentices usually keep a log that your employer signs off on. When you reach the required hours — typically 8,000 to 10,000 — you become may be able to access to test for your license.

Passing the licensing exam

Your state's electrical licensing board administers the exam. It covers the National Electrical Code, local electrical code, safety practices, and practical problem-solving. The exam is usually multiple choice and takes between four and six hours. Some states also require a practical component where you demonstrate hands-on skills.

You register for the exam through your state's licensing board website or office. The fee ranges from $100 to $300 depending on your state. You must submit proof that you have completed your required hours before the board will let you test. This proof comes from your apprenticeship program or employer.

Most people pass on their first attempt if they completed a structured apprenticeship program. If you do not pass, you can retake the exam; your state will tell you how long you must wait between attempts and whether you can test again when ready or must wait 30 days.

Getting your license after you pass

Once you pass the exam, you submit your license process to your state's electrical licensing board along with the exam results, proof of hours, and the process fee. Processing takes two to four weeks in most states. You will receive your license by mail or email.

Your license is valid for a set period — usually three to five years — and then must be renewed. Renewal typically requires paying a fee and, in many states, completing continuing education hours. The number of hours and the cost vary by state.

After you are licensed, you can work as a journeyman electrician. Some electricians stop here. Others pursue a master electrician license, which usually requires additional years of experience (typically two to five more years) and another exam. A master license allows you to own your own electrical business and supervise apprentices.

Costs and timeline

Apprenticeship programs are paid positions, so you earn money while you train. Your hourly wage starts low — often $15 to $20 per hour — and increases as you progress through the program, reaching $25 to $35 per hour by the end. Union apprenticeships typically pay more than non-union positions.

You may pay for classroom instruction out of pocket, though union programs usually cover this through dues. Textbooks, tools, and safety equipment cost $500 to $2,000 depending on what your program requires. The licensing exam fee is $100 to $300. License process and renewal fees range from $50 to $200.

The total time from starting an apprenticeship to holding a license is four to five years. Some accelerated programs compress this into three and a half years, but these are less common and often require year-round attendance.

What happens if you move to a different state

Electrician licenses are issued by individual states, and they do not automatically transfer. If you move, you will need to contact your new state's electrical licensing board to find out whether they recognize your current license through reciprocity, or whether you must test again.

Some states have reciprocity agreements and will issue you a license based on your current one without retesting. Others require you to pass their state exam, even if you are already licensed elsewhere. A few require additional hours of work experience in their state before they will license you. Contact your new state's board before you move to understand what you will need to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I become an electrician without an apprenticeship?

No. Every state requires an apprenticeship or equivalent structured training program. You cannot test for a license based on informal experience alone. Some trade schools offer electrician programs that count toward apprenticeship hours, but you still need to work under a licensed electrician and complete the full hour requirement.

How much do electricians make after they get licensed?

Wages vary by location, employer, and whether you work union or non-union. Journeyman electricians typically earn $25 to $50 per hour depending on the region and job type. Master electricians and those who own their own businesses often earn more. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes wage data by state if you want specific numbers for your area.

Do I need a high school diploma to start an apprenticeship?

Most programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some will accept applicants without one if they pass a basic math and reading test. A few union locals waive this requirement. Contact the programs you are interested in to ask about their specific requirements.

Can I test for my license before I finish my apprenticeship?

No. You must complete the full hour requirement set by your state before you are allowed to register for the exam. If you are close to finishing, you can register for the exam in advance, but you cannot sit for it until your apprenticeship program confirms you have met the hours.

What if I fail the licensing exam?

You can retake it. Most states allow you to test again after 30 days. Some allow when ready retesting. You pay the exam fee again each time you test. If you fail multiple times, some states require you to complete additional classroom hours or work experience before you can test again. Check your state's rules on retesting.