Electrician license: How to Get Certified in Every U.S. State

What is an electrician license?

An electrician license verifies that you have the training and education to perform electrical work safely. It permits you to repair, install, and maintain electrical systems and shows you’re up to date on the National Electrical Code (NEC) and best practices.

Not every state has the same licensing requirements for electricians. For example, Illinois doesn’t have state licensing. Electrical requirements are handled at the local municipality level.

To start gaining experience and learning the trade, most states require you to begin as an apprentice. Apprentices work under the direct supervision of a master electrician (or similar), so they can perform basic electrical repairs and adjustments.

From there, you can continue your journey as an electrician.

Benefits of getting an electrician license

Getting your electrician license is one of the best career moves you can make in the trades. Here’s what a license gets you:

• Legal compliance. Most states require a license to perform electrical work. Operating without one puts you at risk for fines, legal action, and losing the ability to work in your area.
• Credibility with customers. Homeowners and businesses want to hire someone they can trust. A license proves you have the training, skills, and knowledge to do the job right.
• Access to higher-paying jobs and contracts. Licensed electricians qualify for commercial and industrial projects that unlicensed workers can’t touch. Moving from journeyman to master opens the door to bigger contracts and better pay.
• Insurance eligibility. Most insurance providers require a valid license before they’ll issue liability coverage. Without insurance, you can’t protect yourself or your business from costly claims.
• Ability to pull permits. Many jurisdictions require a licensed electrician to pull electrical permits. Without a license, you can’t legally start permitted work.
• Consumer trust. Customers are more likely to choose a licensed pro over someone without credentials. Your license is proof that you meet your state’s safety and competency standards.

Who issues electrician licenses in each state

Electrician licensing in the U.S. is handled differently depending on where you work. Most states issue licenses at the state level through a licensing board, department of labor, or contractor board. In some states (like Illinois and Indiana), licensing is handled at the municipal level, meaning requirements can vary from one city to the next.

A few states, like Pennsylvania, New York, and Nevada, don’t have state-wide licensing at all. In those cases, you’ll need to check with your local city or county government for specific requirements.

If you plan to work across state lines, the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) can help. NASCLA promotes multi-state licensing recognition, making it easier for licensed electricians to work in more than one state without having to start the licensing process from scratch.

Before applying for any license, confirm which agency in your state handles electrician credentials and what level of license you need for the work you plan to do.

How to get an electrician license (by state)

Each state has its own requirements for getting your electrical license, as well as different licensing levels. If your state doesn’t have statewide license requirements, remember that requirements can be set locally by municipal code, bylaws, and other regulations. We cover each state below so you know what types of licenses your state offers.

Jump to your state:

Alabama	Alaska	Arizona	Arkansas	California
Colorado	Connecticut	Delaware	Florida	Georgia
Hawaii	Idaho	Illinois	Indiana	Iowa
Kansas	Kentucky	Louisiana	Maine	Maryland
Massachusetts	Michigan	Minnesota	Mississippi	Missouri
Montana	Nebraska	Nevada	New Hampshire	New Jersey
New Mexico	New York	North Carolina	North Dakota	Ohio
Oklahoma	Oregon	Pennsylvania	Rhode Island	South Carolina
South Dakota	Tennessee	Texas	Utah	Vermont
Virginia	Washington	West Virginia	Wisconsin	Wyoming

Alabama

In Alabama, journeymen and contractors must be licensed to perform electrical work. The Alabama Electrical Contractors Board issues licenses.

To get a journeyman license, applicants must meet the required education and training requirements, as well as pass a trade exam. Applicants will also need to submit an affidavit with their application.

To receive an electrical contractor license, applicants must submit an application and pass a contractor exam. They’ll also need to provide proof of managerial experience with their application.

Both journeyman and electrical contractor license requirements allow you to substitute up to 2,000 hours of the required 8,000 hours of job experience with an approved electrical training course or apprenticeship.

Alaska

Alaska requires electricians to get a certificate from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development in order to perform electrical work.

To get a residential certificate, applicants must complete the required 4,500 hours of training (500 in-classroom training and 4,000 on-the-job training). Once they’ve completed the necessary training, applicants must pass a trade exam and a fitness assessment.

To obtain a journeyman certificate, applicants must have at least 8,000 hours of experience, including at least 6,000 hours on commercial or industrial projects. Applicants must also pass a trade exam and fitness assessment to get their license.

Arizona

Electricians must hold an electrical contractor license to perform work in the state. There are no state-wide journeyman licenses. Electricians must receive a contractor license in a specific electrical category.

There are three different types of electrical contractor licenses:

• Residential (R-11): permits electricians to install and repair electrical systems in residential properties only
• Commercial (C-11): permits electricians to install, alter, and repair electrical systems and equipment less than 600 volts. This includes overhead wiring, underground electrical distribution systems, and any wiring in or on buildings.
• Electrical (K-11): permits electricians to work on both residential and commercial electric work permitted with an R-11 and C-11 license

To get a contractor license in any category, applicants must complete the required number of training hours (900 hours of classroom training and 8,000 hours of hands-on training) through an apprenticeship or trade school program.

Applicants must then pass both the trade exam and the business and law exam and hold the required insurance to receive their license.

Arkansas

Those who wish to perform electrical work in Arkansas must obtain a license. The Arkansas Department of Labor issues licenses.

To get an apprentice license, applicants must register with the board and pass a drug and aptitude test. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED with a passing grade in algebra.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must complete 800 hours of classroom training and 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. Applicants must also pass the licensing exam.

To gain a residential journeyman license, applicants must have at least two years of experience wiring one or two-family dwellings. Applicants will also need to provide a letter of proof signed by a trade or vocational school verifying the applicant’s hours and pass a licensing exam.

To get a master’s license, applicants must meet the experience requirement by having either six years of experience or a degree in electrical engineering and two years of work experience. Applicants must also pass the licensing exam.

To receive a residential master license, applicants must have at least three years of experience wiring one or two-family dwellings, with one of those years serving as a residential journeyman. Applicants must also pass the licensing exam.

To earn an air conditioning license, applicants must have either two years of experience with heating, venting, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC-R) systems or experience approved by the Arkansas Board of Electrical Examiners. A municipal or state-issued HVAC-R license will also suffice.

To collect an industrial maintenance license, applicants must show four years of experience working with electrical conductors under the supervision of another industrial maintenance electrician, master electrician, journeyman, or engineer.

California

Electricians in California must obtain a license to legally perform electrical work. The Department of Industrial Relations provides general electrical certifications, and the Contractors’ State License Board provides contractor licenses.

There are a couple of license types available:

• Electrician trainee: able to perform work under the supervision of a C-10 licensed electrician
• General electrician certification: able to complete electrical work on residential, industrial, and commercial projects for contractors with a C-10 license
• C-10 electrical contractor license: able to own their own business and oversee licensed electricians as a qualifier

All applicants must start as trainees to obtain the required training experience. Applicants can then complete the Electrician Certification Program to gain a general electrician certification or continue with further training and testing to obtain their C-10 electrical contractor license.

Read the full guide to getting certified as an electrician in California.

Colorado

To become a licensed electrician in Colorado, electricians must receive their license from the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.

To gain a residential wireman license, applicants must hold at least two years of work experience (around 4,000 hours) and pass a licensing exam.

To get a journeyman license, applicants must obtain at least four years of experience (around 8,000 hours) specifically in residential dwellings, commercial, and industrial work, or registered apprentices (as of January 1, 2011) must complete 288 hours of education. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To receive a master license, applicants must either hold a degree in electrical engineering and have 2,000 hours of work as an apprentice, hold a degree from a trade school with 8,000 hours of work experience, or accumulate 10,000 total hours with at least 4,000 hours of commercial and industrial experience, as well as layout and planning experience.

To obtain an independent electrical contractor license, applicants must hold a master license and carry the required insurance.

Connecticut

Electricians must be licensed in order to perform electrical work in Connecticut legally. The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection issues licenses. Here’s how to obtain different electrical licenses in Connecticut:

• To get a limited journeyperson license, applicants must complete an apprenticeship program or have four years of work experience. Applicants must pass a licensing exam.
• To gain an unlimited journeyman license, applicants must have completed an apprenticeship program or have four years of work experience. Applicants must pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a limited contractor license, applicants must have two years of work experience as a licensed journeyman or at least six years of electrical experience. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To obtain an unlimited contractor license, applicants must have 2 years of work experience as an unlimited-licensed journeyman or at least 6 years of electrical experience. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To qualify for a limited sign contractor license, applicants must have 2 years of experience as a licensed journeyperson or equivalent, and must pass a licensing exam.
• To get a limited sign journeyperson license, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship or have equivalent experience and pass a licensing exam.
• To earn an electrical lines contractor license, applicants must have two years as a licensed journeyperson or six years of equivalent experience and pass a licensing exam.
• To earn an electrical lines journeyperson license, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship, have 4 years of equivalent experience, and pass a licensing exam.
• To obtain a limited low-voltage contractor license, candidates must have two years as a licensed journeyperson or six years of experience and pass a licensing exam.
• To achieve a limited low-voltage journeyperson license, applicants must finish a registered apprenticeship or have four years of experience and pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a telephone systems contractor license, candidates require six years of experience or must already be a licensed journeyperson and must pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a telephone systems journeyperson license, applicants must complete a registered apprenticeship or have four years of experience and pass a licensing exam.
• To earn a solar electric contractor license, applicants need two years as a solar journeyperson or equivalent experience and must pass a licensing exam.
• To earn a solar electric journeyperson license, candidates must complete a registered apprenticeship or have equivalent experience and pass a licensing exam.

Delaware

To perform electrical work in the state of Delaware, electricians need to get a license from the state’s Board of Electrical Examiners. Here’s how to acquire different electrician licenses in the state of Delaware:

• To get an apprentice license, applicants must register for an apprenticeship program, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass an aptitude and physical test.
• To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have completed at least 8,000 hours of training through an accredited apprenticeship program and pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a residential license, applicants must have completed 4,000 hours in a residential-specific apprenticeship program and pass the licensing exam.
• To get a limited license, which grants the ability to work under the supervision of a master electrician, applicants must have at least three years of full-time electrical experience as well as pass a licensing exam.
• To gain a master license, applicants must have a minimum of six years of working full-time as an electrician. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam as well as hold $300,000 worth of insurance.

READ MORE: 12 electrician apps to make your job easier

Florida

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) issues two types of licenses through the Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board. These licenses are:

• Certified: valid across the entire state, allowing contractors to work in any jurisdiction in Florida.
• Registered: restricted to specific cities, counties, or local jurisdictions within Florida.

The type of license you need depends on the type of work you plan to do and the location where you intend to work.

Read the full guide to getting certified as an electrician in Florida.

Georgia

Those interested in working as an electrician in Georgia must get a license through the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Electrical Contractors. Georgia doesn’t offer a journeyman license, so once you’ve finished your apprenticeship program, you can start work as an electrician without supervision or continue and get your contractor license.

There are two contractor license classifications:

• Class 1 restricted: works on systems with a voltage less than 200 amperes
• Class 2 unrestricted: works on systems with voltages over 200 amperes

To receive a contractor license of either classification, applicants must have at least four years of experience working as an electrician. Applicants must also provide three letters of reference and pass the licensing exam.

Want to get the steps to apply? See the complete guide to becoming a licensed electrician in Georgia.

Hawaii

Electricians in Hawaii must obtain a license to work in the state. Licenses are provided by the Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers. Here’s how to become a licensed electrician in Hawaii:

• To receive a journey worker specialty license, applicants must have completed 3 years of industrial work experience totaling at least 6,000 hours and 120 hours of classroom training through an accredited course.
• To receive a journey worker industrial license, applicants must have completed at least 8,000 hours of industrial work experience, with a minimum of 4 years, and 200 hours of classroom training through an accredited course.
• To get a journey worker license, applicants must have at least 5 years of experience, with a minimum of 10,000 hours in residential and commercial wiring, and 240 hours of classroom training through an accredited course.
• To receive a supervising specialty license, applicants must have at least two years of experience working as a licensed journeyman specialty electrician.
• To obtain a supervising industrial license, applicants must have at least 3 years of experience as a licensed journeyman industrial electrician.
• To obtain a supervising electrician license, applicants must have at least 4 years of experience as a licensed journeyman electrician.

Idaho

Electricians in Idaho must gain their license from the Idaho Division of Building Safety in order to perform electrical work within the state.

To get an apprentice license, applicants must enroll in an accredited apprenticeship program and have a high school diploma or GED.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have completed at least 8,000 hours of training and a four-year approved education program or provide proof of 16,000 total hours of experience, as well as pass a licensing exam.

To receive a master license, applicants must have worked as a licensed journeyman for at least four years. Applicants will also need to pass a licensing exam.

To obtain an electrical contractor license, applicants must hold a master license, pass a contractor licensing exam, and maintain at least $300,000 in insurance.

Illinois

Those looking to work as an electrician in Illinois must be licensed, but the state doesn’t offer a statewide license. Instead, licenses are provided through local cities within the state.

Some cities, like Libertyville, offer licenses widely accepted by other municipalities across the state. Electricians must check with their local jurisdiction to determine the requirements for obtaining a license.

Read the full guide to getting certified as an electrician in the state of Illinois.

Indiana

Indiana doesn’t have a state-wide regulation for electrical licenses. Instead, licenses for journeymen, residential electricians, master electricians, and electrical contractors are issued through municipalities throughout the state.

Licensing requirements vary by city, so check with your local governing body for the process to obtain a license.

Iowa

To work as an electrician in Iowa, applicants must hold an electrical license. Licenses are issued by the Iowa Department of Public Safety, State Fire Marshall Division.

To receive an apprentice license, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, enroll in an apprenticeship program, and register with the U.S. Department of Labor.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must show proof of completing an apprenticeship program and have at least four years of experience. Applicants will also need to pass a licensing exam.

To get a master license, applicants must work as a licensed journeyman for one year and pass a licensing exam.

There are 11 total electrician licenses in Iowa, including:

• Electrical Contractor
• Residential Electrical Contractor
• Class A Master Electrician
• Class B Master Electrician
• Residential Master
• Class A Journeyman Electrician
• Class B Journeyman Electrician
• Residential Electrician
• Apprentice Electrician
• Special Electrician
• Unclassified Person

Kansas

Electricians in Kansas must hold a license to legally perform electrical work. Municipalities issue licenses, but the state still has statewide regulations governing the requirements to obtain a license.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have at least two years of experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician as well as 240 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To receive a master license, applicants must have worked as a licensed journeyman for at least two years and pass a licensing exam.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must pass a contractor licensing exam and obtain at least $300,000 worth of insurance.

Kentucky

To perform electrical work in Kentucky, electricians must gain their license. Licenses are issued by the Kentucky Public Protection Cabinet Department of Housing, Buildings, and Construction.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have at least four years of electrical experience and a notarized waiver verifying the experience. Applicants must also have 576 hours of classroom training and pass a licensing exam.

To receive a master license, applicants must have worked as a licensed journeyman for at least two years and pass a licensing exam.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must pass a Business and Law exam and obtain at least $500,000 worth of insurance.

Louisiana

Louisiana does not offer a statewide journeyman or master-level license. These licenses are issued locally, and electricians must check their local jurisdiction for license requirements. Louisiana does offer a state-wide electrical contractor license issued by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors.

An electrical contractor license is required to work on projects that cost more than $10,000. Applicants must also have a business net worth of at least $10,000 and pass a trade exam as well as a Business and Law exam to obtain the license.

Maine

Those looking to perform electrical work in Maine must be licensed. Licenses are provided by the state’s Electricians Examining Board.

To get an apprentice license, applicants must enroll in an apprenticeship program and hold a high school diploma or GED.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must have at least 8,000 hours of electrical experience as an apprentice or on-the-job experience and 576 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To gain a master license, applicants must have worked at least 4,000 hours as a licensed journeyman or have a total of 12,000 hours of electrical experience. Applicants must also partake in 576 hours of classroom training and pass a licensing exam.

Maryland

Electricians must be licensed to perform electrical work in the state of Maryland. Licenses are issued by the Maryland State Board of Master Electricians.

To get an apprentice license, applicants must enroll in an apprenticeship program and hold a high school diploma or GED.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must have at least 8,000 hours of electrical experience as an apprentice and 576 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To get a master license, applicants must have at least seven years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed master electrician and pass a licensing exam.

Massachusetts

To legally work as an electrician in Massachusetts, electricians must gain their license. Licenses are provided by the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians. Here’s how to get a Massachusetts electrician license:

• To get a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of electrical work experience, 600 hours of coursework, and a 15-hour course focused on code updates. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To gain a master license, applicants must have worked for at least one year as a licensed journeyman and have 150 hours of classroom training. Applicants will also need to pass a licensing exam.
• To get a systems technician license, applicants must have at least 4,000 hours of experience installing security systems and fire alarms, 300 hours of coursework, and a 15-hour course focused on code updates. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a systems contractor license, applicants must have worked as a systems technician for 1 year and complete an additional 75 hours of coursework.

Read the full guide to getting certified as an electrician in Massachusetts.

Michigan

Electricians in Michigan must be licensed in order to perform electrical work. State-wide licenses are issued by the electrical division of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Despite having a state-wide license, electricians in the Detroit and Grand Rapids areas must obtain their license through the local jurisdiction.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of electrical work experience, with the potential to earn credit from graduating from a recognized training program. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To obtain a master license, applicants must have worked for at least 2 years as a licensed journeyman and completed 12,000 hours of electrical work over the past 6 years. Applicants will also need to pass a licensing exam.

To obtain an electrical contractor license, applicants must hold a master license and pass the contractor licensing exam.

Minnesota

For the most part, electricians in Minnesota are required to have a license to perform electrical work. Some electrical work can be done unlicensed, but only under specific regulations. State-wide licenses are issued by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

To gain a Class A journeyworker license, applicants must provide proof of successfully completing an apprenticeship program and have at least 48 months of full-time electrical work experience. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To get a Class A and Class B master license, applicants must have at least 60 months of experience and have held their journeyman’s license for at least a year. Applicants also need to pass a licensing exam.

To receive a Class A and Class B installer license, applicants must have at least 12 months of full-time work experience planning, laying, or installing electrical work.

Mississippi

A license is required to perform electrical work in Mississippi. License levels, such as journeyman or master electrician, are issued locally. Electrical contractor licenses are issued by the state through the Mississippi State Board of Contractors.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must have either an electrical degree from a four-year college with one year of work under a licensed master electrician or four years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed master electrician.

Missouri

Electricians must be licensed in order to work in Missouri. License levels such as journeyman or master electrician are issued through local municipalities, but the state offers an electrical contractor license. Contractor licenses are issued by the Missouri Division of Professional Registration, Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must complete 12,000 hours of practical wiring work, or 10,000 hours with a journeyman certificate, 8,000 hours with an associate degree, or 4,000 hours with a four-year electrical engineering degree. They must also pass a licensing exam and carry at least $500,000 in liability insurance.

Montana

A license is required to perform any electrical work in Montana. Licenses are provided by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry through the Montana State Electrical Board. Here’s how to get an electrical license in Montana:

• To gain a residential license, applicants must complete an apprenticeship program or 4,000 hours of electrical work experience and 500 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a journeyman license, applicants must complete an apprenticeship program or 8,000 hours of electrical work experience and 500 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To get a master license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman, with 20%-50% of those hours performed on residential projects. Applicants will also need to pass a licensing exam.
• A limited electrical contractor license allows electricians to work on residential projects. To get this license, applicants must hold a journeyman license and pass a licensing exam.
• An unlimited electrical contractor license allows electricians to work on both residential and commercial work. To receive this license, applicants must hold a master electrician license and pass a licensing exam.

Nebraska

Electricians must gain their license in order to work in Nebraska. Licenses are issued by the Nebraska Electrical Division.

To obtain a residential journeyman license, applicants must have at least 3 years of work experience in the electrical trade (including as a registered apprentice) and pass a licensing exam.

To get a journeyman license, applicants must have at least 4 years of work experience (including as a registered apprentice) in the electrical trade and pass a licensing exam.

To receive an electrical contractor license, applicants must have either 5 years of experience in the electrical trade or an electrical degree from a 4-year college and at least 1 year of experience as a journeyman. Applicants will also need to pass a licensing exam.

Nevada

Electricians in Nevada must have a license to perform electrical work. However, Nevada doesn’t offer a state-wide license. Instead, licenses are provided through local cities within the state. Electricians must check with their local jurisdiction to determine the requirements for obtaining a license.

New Hampshire

To perform electrical work within the state of New Hampshire, electricians must be licensed. Licenses are provided by the New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Electricians’ Board.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of electrical work experience and must pass a licensing exam.

To get a master license, applicants must have 2,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman and will need to pass a licensing exam.

To get a high/medium voltage license, applicants must submit an application to the board showing the successful completion of an electrical training program with at least 14 hours of electrical code changes and one hour of New Hampshire deficiencies.

New Jersey

Electricians must be licensed to perform electrical work within New Jersey. Licenses are issued by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of documented electrical work experience, with at least half of those hours completed within the last five years. Applicants must also have 576 hours of classroom training as well as pass a licensing exam.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must have at least five years of work experience and will need to pass a licensing exam.

Ready to start? Learn the complete steps to becoming an electrician in New Jersey.

New Mexico

To work as an electrician in New Mexico, electricians must gain their license from theNew Mexico Construction Industries Division, Regulation & Licensing Department.

There are multiple classifications within the journeyman license. To gain a journeyman license, applicants must either have two or four years of electrical work experience and pass a licensing exam.

Journeyman license classifications that require two years of electrical work experience:

• ER-1 Residential
• ES-1J Electrical Signs/Outline Lighting
• ES-2J Cathodic Protection and Lightning Protection
• ES-3J Sound and Intercommunication and Electrical Alarm Systems
• ES-7J Telephone Communication Lines

Journeyman license classifications that require four years of electrical work experience:

• EE-98J Electrical (includes all ESJ Specialties)
• EL-1J Electrical Distribution Systems, including transmission lines

The electrical contractor license also has multiple classifications. To gain an electrical contractor license, applicants must either have two or four years of electrical work experience, pass a contractor licensing exam, and provide proof of financial responsibility.

Electrical contractor license classifications that require two years of electrical work experience:

• ES-1 Electrical Signs and Outline Lighting
• ES-2 Cathodic Protection and Lightning Protection
• ES-3 Sound and Intercommunication and Electrical Alarm Systems
• ER-1 Residential
• ES-7 Telephone Communication Lines

Electrical contractor license classifications that require four years of electrical work experience:

• EE-98 Electrical (includes all ESJ Specialties)
• EL-1 Electrical Distribution Systems, including transmission lines

New York

There are no state-wide electrical licensing requirements in New York. Licensing requirements vary based on municipalities. For example, a license is required in New York City, but in other cities in rural upstate New York, electricians aren’t required to be licensed.

Check with your local jurisdiction for any electrical licensing regulations.

Ready to get started? Get the step-by-step guide to electrical contracting licenses in major New York City.

North Carolina

To perform electrical work in North Carolina, electricians must be licensed. Local jurisdictions offer license levels such as journeyman or master electrician. The state only offers a contractor license, but they have a few different classifications available. Contractor licenses are issued by the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors.

To get a limited electrical contractor license, applicants must have at least four years of work experience and pass a licensing exam. Electricians with these licenses can only work on projects under 600 volts or $50,000.

To receive an intermediate electrical contractor license, applicants must have at least six years of experience and pass a licensing exam. This license has no voltage limitations, but license holders can only work on electrical contracting projects under $130,000.

To gain an unlimited electrical contractor license, applicants must have at least five years of work experience, along with two electrician experience vouchers. This license doesn’t have any restrictions on project voltage or cost.

North Dakota

All electrical work performed in North Dakota must be by a licensed electrician, and licenses are issued by the North Dakota State Electrical Board.

To get a Class B electrician license, applicants must have 3,000 hours of residential electrical work on one or two-family dwellings under the supervision of a master or Class B electrician.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of work under the supervision of a licensed contracting master or master of record electrician and pass a licensing exam.

There are a few classifications available within a power-limited license:

• Contracting Power-Limited Electrician: permits electricians to complete electrical work as well as run their own electrical business.
• Power-Limited Electrician of Record: only permitted to work on property owned or leased by the organization.
• Non-Contracting Power-Limited Electrician: only allowed to complete electrical work under the supervision of a contracting master, master of record, contracting power-limited electrician, or a power-limited electrician of record.

To receive a power-limited electrician license of any classification, applicants must complete 6,000 hours of work as a registered power-limited apprentice.

There are a few different classifications of master licenses:

• Contracting Master Electrician: permits electricians to complete electrical work as well as run their own electrical business.
• Master of Record Electrician: permits electricians to complete work only on property owned or leased by the organization.
• Non-Contracting Master Electrician: permits an electrician to complete electrical work under the supervision of a contracting master or master of record electrician.

To receive a master license in any classification, applicants must have 2,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman and pass a licensing exam.

Ohio

To perform electrical work on commercial projects or contracts, electricians must be licensed by the state of Ohio. The state issues only contractor electrical licenses, since most municipalities don’t require one for general electrical work.

Hamilton and Middleton are the only two cities requiring a license for general journeyman work. All other towns allow electricians to work unlicensed as long as they’re working under the supervision of a licensed contractor. Contractor licenses are issued by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.

To obtain an electrical contractor license, applicants must have at least 5 years of work experience under a licensed electrician, provide proof of $500,000 in general liability insurance, and pass a licensing exam.

Oklahoma

To perform electrical work in Oklahoma, electricians must be licensed. Licenses are provided by the Oklahoma Construction and Industries Board. Here’s how to get an electrician license in Oklahoma:

• To gain a residential journeyman license, applicants must have 4,000 hours of work and pass a licensing exam.
• To get an unlimited journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of work, with at least half of the hours working on industrial projects. Applicants must also be registered as an apprentice and pass a licensing exam.
• To receive a residential electrical contractor license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of work experience under the employment of an electrical contractor. Of the total hours, 4,000 must be completed at an apprentice level, and the other 4,000 must be completed at a journeyman level. Applicants must also pass a trade and the Business and Law exam.
• To earn a limited electrical contractor license, applicants must have a college degree in electrical engineering and 8,000 hours of work experience, or 16,000 total hours of work experience in electrical work, estimating, or project management on commercial/industrial jobs.
• To get an unlimited electrical contractor license, applicants must have 12,000 hours of work experience. Six thousand of those hours must be on commercial/industrial work, and at least 4,000 of those hours must be as a journeyman under the supervision of a licensed electrical contractor. Applicants must also pass a trade and the Business and Law exam.

All contractors must carry a $5,000 corporate surety bond, including seals, original signatures, and a power of attorney.

Oregon

Electricians must be licensed in order to perform electrical work in Oregon. Non-contract licenses are provided by the Oregon Building Codes Division Office, and contractor licenses are issued through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.

Oregon offers a variety of journeyman license classifications. General journeymen can work on any type of electrical project, while limited electricians are only permitted to work within their specific area. The journeyman license types are as follows:

• General Journeyman (J)
• Limited Journeyman Sign Electrician (SIG)
• Limited Journeyman Manufacturing Plant (PJ)
• Limited Journeyman Stage Electrician (ST)

To gain a journeyman license of any classification, applicants must pass a licensing exam and fulfill the experience requirement in one of the following ways:

• Complete a board-approved apprenticeship program
• Complete 8,000 hours of work experience and 576 hours of classroom training
• Complete 16,000 hours of electrical work outside the state of Oregon

To get a supervising electrician license, applicants must have at least 8,000 hours of work experience as a licensed journeyman and pass a licensing exam.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must complete a pre-license training course and pass a licensing exam. Applicants must also obtain the required bonds and insurance.

Ready to start? Read the full guide to getting your Oregon electrician license.

Pennsylvania

There are no state-wide electrical licensing regulations in Pennsylvania. License regulations are set by the local jurisdiction of each municipality within the state. Check with your local governing body for any electrical licensing regulations.

Rhode Island

Electricians must be licensed to legally perform electrical work in Rhode Island. Licenses are provided by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training Division of Workforce Regulation and Safety, Division of Professional Regulations Unit.

To gain a journeyperson license, applicants must have four years of work experience, complete 576 hours of an approved training program, and pass the licensing exam.

To get an electrical contractor license, applicants must have a total of six years of experience, with two years as a licensed journeyman, and pass the licensing exam.

READ MORE: How to run a successful electrical business

South Carolina

To perform electrical work in South Carolina, applicants must have an electrician’s license. The Municipal Association of South Carolina issues journeyman and master licenses, while the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation issues contractor licenses.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must have two years of electrical work experience under the supervision of a licensed journeyman or master electrician and pass a licensing exam. Applicants can also fulfill the work experience requirement by completing a two-year associate degree program through a trade school.

To receive a master license, applicants must work for four years as a licensed journeyman and pass the licensing exam.

South Carolina offers two contractor license classifications: mechanical and residential. To obtain an electrical contractor license in either classification, applicants must work for 2 years as a licensed journeyman, pass the licensing exam, and submit a financial statement. Mechanical contractors must also obtain the required bonds and insurance.

South Dakota

South Dakota requires all electricians to be licensed in order to perform electrical work. Licenses are issued by the South Dakota Electrical Commission.

To get an apprentice license, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and enroll in an apprenticeship program.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of work experience as an apprentice and pass a licensing exam.

To gain an electrical contractor license, applicants must have at least 4,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman with a minimum of 2,000 hours in commercial work, pass a contractor exam, and make a $10,000 deposit with the South Dakota Electrical Commission.

Tennessee

Tennessee does not offer a statewide journeyman or master-level license. These licenses are issued at the local level, and electricians must check their local jurisdiction for license requirements.

Tennessee does, however, offer a state-wide electrical contractor license and a limited electrician license for cities that don’t offer any local licensing. Licenses are issued by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.

To get a limited electrical license, applicants must have at least two years of work experience through an apprenticeship and pass a licensing exam. This license is only valid in areas of Tennessee that don’t already have licensing regulations.

To gain an electrical contractor license, applicants must have a local license and pass a trade and Business and Law exam. Applicants must also provide a financial statement and obtain the necessary insurance.

Texas

Electricians in Texas must be licensed to perform electrical work within the state. Licenses are issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

To get an apprenticeship license, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and enroll in an apprenticeship program.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must complete 8,000 hours of work experience under the supervision of a licensed master electrician and pass a licensing exam.

To obtain a master license, applicants must have held a journeyman license for at least 2 years and have accumulated 12,000 hours of on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed master electrician. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

Read the full guide to getting certified as an electrician in Texas.

Utah

To perform electrical work in Utah, electricians must hold a license. Licenses are provided by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

To get a residential journeyman license, applicants must meet the required experience hours by either:

• completing two years of a trade school program and 3,000 hours of on-the-job experience
• completing 8,000 hours of on-the-job work experience

Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must complete a four-year apprenticeship program and have 6,000 hours of on-the-job experience, or 16,000 hours as a licensed apprentice electrician. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To get a residential master license, applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering and 2,000 hours of residential electrical experience or 4,000 hours of work as a licensed residential journeyman, and pass a licensing exam.

To gain a master license, applicants must pass a licensing exam and obtain the required experience through one of the following:

• Complete 8,000 hours of work as a licensed journeyman
• Graduated from a two-year trade school program and worked as a licensed journeyman for 4,000 hours
• Graduate with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering from an EAC/ABET-accredited school and work as a licensed journeyman for 4,000 hours

Vermont

Electricians must hold a license to legally perform work in Vermont. Licenses are provided by the Vermont Electrical Board.

To get a specialist license, applicants must have 4,000 hours of electrical work or complete an accredited training program and 2,000 hours of work experience.

To receive a journeyman license, applicants must either complete the Vermont electrical apprenticeship program or have at least 12,000 hours of work experience. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To gain a master license, applicants must work as a licensed journeyman for two years or have at least 16,000 hours of work experience. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

Virginia

To work as an electrician in Virginia, applicants must hold a license from the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must meet any of the following experience requirements:

• Complete a two-year trade school program
• Get four years of work experience and 240 hours of classroom training
• Get an associate degree and have two years of work experience
• Get a bachelor’s degree in an engineering program and have one year of work experience

Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To get a master license, applicants must work as a licensed journeyman for at least one year or provide proof of 10 years of experience if they don’t have a journeyman license. Applicants must also take a licensing exam.

Washington

Electricians need a license to work in Washington. Licenses are issued by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

To obtain a journeyman license, applicants must have 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience and 96 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To obtain a master license or an electrical administrator license, applicants must work as a licensed journeyman for 4 years and pass a licensing exam.

To obtain an electrical contractor license, applicants must hold a master electrician or electrical administrator license and submit proof of a $4,000 electrical contractor’s surety bond.

West Virginia

To perform electrical work in West Virginia, applicants must gain their license. Licenses are provided by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Here’s how to become a licensed electrician in West Virginia:

• To get an apprenticeship license, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and pass an apprenticeship exam.
• To gain a journeyman license, applicants must either show proof of completion of an apprenticeship program, have one year or 2,000 hours of above-ground electrical work experience, or complete 1,080 hours of a vocational course. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.
• To get a specialty electrical license, applicants must complete one year or 2,000 hours of electrical work in one of the following categories: HVAC, electric sign, single-family dwelling, elevator, or low voltage.
• To receive a master license, applicants must have two years or 4,000 hours of above-ground electrical work in residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, electricians must receive a license to perform any electrical work. Licenses are provided by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

To gain a journeyman license, applicants must complete an approved apprenticeship program, have 8,000 hours of work experience, or have at least 1,000 hours of work experience every year for the last five years. Experience can also be substituted with up to 2,000 hours in a trade school program. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To receive a master license, applicants must have either one year of work experience as a licensed journeyman, a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, 10,000 hours of electrical work experience for those without a journeyman license, or at least 1,000 hours of work experience every year for the last seven years. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

Wyoming

Electricians must hold a license to perform electrical work in Wyoming. Licenses are issued by the Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety.

To get a journeyman license, applicants must either show proof of completion of an apprenticeship program or have 8,000 hours of work experience with 576 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

To receive a master license, applicants must have 16,000 hours of electrical work experience, including at least 4,000 hours as a licensed journeyman, and 576 hours of classroom training. Applicants must also pass a licensing exam.

How long does it take to become a licensed electrician?

Most electricians can expect to earn their journeyman license in four to five years. The typical path looks like this:

1. Complete a four-year apprenticeship. Most states require around 8,000 hours of on-the-job training, plus classroom instruction. Apprenticeship programs through unions (like the IBEW) or independent programs typically take four years.
2. Pass the journeyman licensing exam. After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll take a state or local exam covering the National Electrical Code and trade knowledge.
3. Gain experience as a journeyman. To earn your master license, most states require an additional one to four years of work as a licensed journeyman.

Some states allow you to substitute classroom hours for a portion of the work experience requirement. For example, a two-year trade school program can reduce the on-the-job hours needed in several states.

The total timeline to reach the master electrician level is typically six to 10 years, depending on your state’s requirements and how quickly you accumulate hours.

READ MORE: How to estimate electrical work accurately: step-by-step guide

Electrician training programs and schools

There are several paths to get the training you need for your electrician license. The right one depends on your budget, timeline, and learning style.

Union apprenticeships (IBEW/NJATC)

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC) run some of the most respected apprenticeship programs in the country. These programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction over four to five years. You earn while you learn, and the program is free to apprentices.

Independent electrical contractor (IEC) programs

The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) offer apprenticeship programs through local chapters across the U.S. Like union programs, IEC apprenticeships combine hands-on work with classroom education. They’re a strong option if you prefer a non-union path.

Trade schools and community colleges

Many trade schools and community colleges offer electrical technology programs ranging from 6 months to 2 years. These programs cover electrical theory, the NEC, blueprint reading, and hands-on wiring skills. Graduates often get credit toward their apprenticeship hours, which can shorten the time to licensure.

Online pre-apprenticeship courses

If you’re not ready to commit to a full program, online courses can help you build foundational knowledge in electrical theory and safety before starting an apprenticeship. These won’t replace hands-on training, but they’re a good way to get a head start.

Registered apprenticeship programs

The U.S. Department of Labor maintains a directory of registered apprenticeship programs through Apprenticeship.gov. You can search by state and trade to find programs near you that meet federal quality standards.

How much does an electrician license cost?

The cost to get your electrician license varies depending on where you work and your state or local requirements. Here’s a general breakdown of electrician license costs as of 2026:

• Formal education (in-class training or certificates): $500 to $15,000
• Associate degree programs: $3,000 to $12,000
• Apprenticeship programs: $0 to $4,000
• License application and exam fees: $15 to $300 per year. The exam itself typically costs $30 to $75.

Check with your local city or municipality to see what’s required to get your electrician license and how much you should expect to pay.

Does an electrician license increase your earning potential?

Yes. Getting your electrician license directly increases what you can earn. Licensed electricians qualify for bigger projects, higher-paying contracts, and the ability to run their own business.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (updated August 2025), the median annual wage for electricians was $62,350 as of May 2024. The top 10% of all electricians earned more than $106,030 per year.

The BLS projects 9% job growth for electricians from 2024 to 2034, with about 81,000 openings per year. That steady demand means strong earning potential at every license level.

As you climb from apprentice to journeyman to master, your earning potential grows with each step. Journeymen tend to earn 62% more than apprentice electricians, and master electricians, on average, earn 19% more than journeymen.

For a full breakdown of electrician pay by state, experience level, and license type, check out the electrician salary guide.