How to Become a Licensed Electrician: Apprenticeship, Exam & Costs
Becoming a licensed electrician is one of the most reliable career paths in the skilled trades. Unlike many professions, electricians can earn while they learn through paid apprenticeships, and demand for qualified electricians continues to grow across the country.
The Electrician License Ladder
Most states have a tiered licensing system:
| Level | Experience | Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | 0 years | Work under supervision of journeyman/master |
| Journeyman | 4 – 5 years | Work independently, cannot pull permits in most states |
| Master Electrician | 6 – 8 years total | Pull permits, supervise others, run a business |
| Electrical Contractor | Varies | Business license to bid on jobs (requires master in most states) |
Step 1: Complete an Apprenticeship
The standard path is a 4-year apprenticeship combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction:
- On-the-job: 8,000 hours (approximately 2,000 hours/year)
- Classroom: 144 to 580 hours of related technical instruction
- Pay: Apprentices start at 40% to 50% of journeyman wages, increasing with each year
- Starting apprentice wage: $15 to $22/hour depending on location
Where to Find Apprenticeships
- IBEW/NECA (union): Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committees (JATCs) — highly structured, competitive to enter
- Independent (non-union): Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) or Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC)
- Employer-sponsored: Some electrical companies run their own programs
Union apprenticeships typically include full benefits (health insurance, pension) from day one.
Step 2: Pass the Journeyman Exam
After completing your apprenticeship, most states require passing a journeyman electrician exam:
- Based on: National Electrical Code (NEC) — the current edition
- Format: Multiple choice, 75 to 100 questions
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Open book: Most states allow a tabbed NEC codebook
- Pass rate: Approximately 65% to 75% first-time
Exam Costs
| Fee | Range |
|---|---|
| Exam registration | $50 – $200 |
| NEC codebook | $100 – $150 |
| Application fee | $50 – $150 |
| Total | $200 – $500 |
Step 3: Apply for Your License
After passing the exam:
- Submit application to your state licensing board
- Provide proof of apprenticeship hours and education
- Pass background check (most states)
- Pay licensing fee ($50 to $200)
- Receive your journeyman electrician license
Processing time: 2 to 6 weeks.
See requirements for your state at our electrician license guide.
Master Electrician License
To advance to master electrician, most states require:
- Additional experience: 2 to 4 years as a licensed journeyman (6 to 8 years total)
- Master exam: More comprehensive than journeyman, covering NEC plus business/supervision topics
- Some states also require: Proof of supervision experience
Master electricians can pull permits, supervise apprentices and journeymen, and start their own electrical contracting business.
States That Don’t Require a License
Several states do not have statewide electrician licensing, leaving it to local municipalities:
- Kansas, Illinois, Indiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Pennsylvania, New York, and others
In these states, licensing requirements vary by city or county. For example, New York City has strict licensing, but the state of New York has no statewide requirement.
Check your state’s specific situation at LicenseCompass.
Salary by Experience Level
| Level | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Apprentice (1st year) | $33,000 – $40,000 |
| Apprentice (4th year) | $45,000 – $55,000 |
| Journeyman | $61,590 |
| Master Electrician | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Electrical Contractor (business owner) | $80,000 – $120,000+ |
Top-paying states include Illinois, New York, Oregon, Hawaii, and Alaska. Compare salaries at our electrician salary data.
Continuing Education
Most states require 12 to 24 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle (typically every 2 to 3 years). Topics usually include:
- NEC code changes and updates
- Safety practices (OSHA, arc flash)
- Renewable energy systems (solar, EV charging)
- Business practices (for master electricians)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed electrician? A minimum of 4 to 5 years. This includes a 4-year apprenticeship followed by passing the journeyman exam. Master electrician certification requires an additional 2 to 4 years.
How much does it cost to become an electrician? Far less than most professions because apprenticeships are paid. Out-of-pocket costs for licensing (exam, application, codebook) are typically $200 to $500. Apprentices earn $33,000 to $55,000 per year while training.
Do electricians need a college degree? No. A high school diploma or GED is sufficient. Some apprenticeship programs prefer or require courses in algebra and physics.
What’s the difference between journeyman and master electrician? A journeyman can work independently but usually cannot pull permits or own a contracting business. A master electrician can do all of the above and supervise other electricians.
Is electrician a good career in 2026? Yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% job growth for electricians through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Infrastructure spending and the shift to electric vehicles are driving additional demand.
Data sourced from CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor). Requirements vary significantly between states and municipalities — verify with your state licensing board.