Becoming an electrician offers many benefits, including competitive salaries and steady job growth. The demand for electricians is rising faster than most other jobs, with opportunities growing by 9% from 2022 to 2030.
This article will guide you through each step needed to become a licensed electrician. From attending trade schools to completing on-the-job training through apprenticeships and passing important exams, we’ve covered everything here.
Ready to get started?
Jump to Section [Hide]
5 Steps to Become an Electrician
You can start your journey by getting a high school diploma. This step is crucial for gaining the basic knowledge needed later.
1. Electrician Trade School
The electrician trade school is a great starting point. Programs can be as short as four months for a certificate course or up to two years for an associate degree. For example, City Colleges of Chicago offers different levels: a basic certificate (19 credit hours), an advanced certificate (35.5 credit hours), and an associate degree (65.5 credit hours).
Trade schools teach you about electrical power systems and the National Electrical Code. You will also learn essential skills like problem-solving, agility, and following safety regulations.
Some programs may include hands-on training with mock electrical wiring setups to prepare you better for real-world tasks.
2. Complete an Electrician Apprenticeship Program
Electrician apprenticeships usually last three to five years. During this time, you will complete 6,000-10,000 hours of training. Programs like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) include options such as a three-year residential wireman and a five-year inside wireman course.
These programs offer both classroom instruction and hands-on experience under skilled mentors.
You may work on construction sites or in commercial buildings. Employers consider apprentices valuable because they gain real-world skills while learning the National Electric Code.
Apprenticeships are vital for becoming a journeyman electrician. You will also learn troubleshooting techniques and how to handle high-voltage projects safely.
3. Gain Hands-on Experience
Hands-on experience is critical to becoming a skilled electrician. Becoming an apprentice lets you earn while you learn. For example, IBEW apprentices in Michigan make $10-15 per hour during training.
After graduating, they can earn between $40,000 and $80,000 yearly. You will need books, work clothes, and tools for the job.
Many trade schools offer guidance from experienced teachers and mentors. Electrical trainees get real-world practice by working on different projects under supervision. This helps you understand the practical aspects of electrical work better than just studying books could ever do.
4. Obtain Licensing as a Journeyman Electrician
After completing your apprenticeship, take the electrical journeyman exam. For example, Connecticut requires a minimum four-year program with 576 hours of instruction and 8,000 hours of work experience.
Obtain licensure to meet state requirements. Some states may have additional rules or tests.
Meet specific standards in your area. You might also need liability insurance or a driver’s license. Please familiarize yourself with the certification exam format before taking it.
This will help you land jobs as an independent contractor or in formal professions.
5. State-specific Requirements
In the United States, 41 states require electricians to have a license. Louisiana, Mississippi, and Ohio need contractor licenses, while Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, New York, and Pennsylvania do not require electrician licensing.
Each state has its own rules and exams for becoming licensed.
For example, in Texas (the Lone Star State), you must pass written and practical exams to get your license. Some states also ask for a driver’s license or proof of formal education, such as trade school courses in engineering technology.
Complying with state-specific requirements is crucial. Some states may need further coursework or more hands-on experience. Always check local regulations to know what steps to take in your area.
Pursue Master Electrician Certification
To pursue a Master Electrician Certification, you need additional experience beyond what a Journeyman license requires. For example, Colorado requires 2,000 hours of work in specific areas.
This can include tasks like electrical planning and supervision.
You must also pass an exam that tests your advanced knowledge and skills. Many states have open-book exams where you can refer to code books during the test. This certification will enable you to take on more responsibilities and potentially earn a higher salary.
Career Opportunities for Electricians
You can work in homes, businesses, or large factories. Each job teaches you different skills and offers various challenges.
Residential and Commercial Electrician
Residential electricians focus on homes. They install wiring, outlets, and lighting fixtures. You will often upgrade electrical panels and repair faulty systems. Safety is essential while working in people’s houses.
Commercial electricians tackle more significant projects like office buildings or shopping malls. These jobs require more planning due to larger electrical loads and complex systems. They must also pay attention to building codes and regulations to comply with state standards.
Industrial Electrician
Industrial electricians work in factories, plants, and other industrial settings. They install and repair electrical systems used in manufacturing. An industrial electrician might work with large machinery, control systems, and even robotics.
You can earn good money as an industrial electrician. In 2020, the median salary for manufacturing workers was $61,510. Working for the government could pay even more; some earned a median of $64,490 that year.
It’s a rewarding career path if you enjoy hands-on tasks and problem-solving.
Electrical Contractor
An electrical contractor often oversees large projects and handles complex systems. These professionals work independently or lead teams of electricians on residential, commercial, and industrial sites.
In 2020, about 9% of electricians were self-employed, highlighting the opportunities for independent contractors in this field.
Electrical contractors made a median salary of $55,170 in 2020. To become one, you need solid mathematical skills and a thorough comprehension of electrical systems. Mentorship from experienced electricians can also be invaluable as you gain hands-on experience in the trade.
FAQs About Becoming an Electrician
How long does it take to become an electrician? What are the costs involved in training and licensing? Read more to find out!
Timeframe to Become an Electrician
Becoming an electrician takes dedication and time. An apprenticeship usually lasts between 3-5 years. During this period, you gain hands-on experience and learn from seasoned professionals.
After completing your apprenticeship, getting licensed as a journeyman electrician needs more effort. If you aim to be a master electrician, it might take about 5-9 years in total.
This includes all the training, experience, and passing required exams.
Costs Associated with Training and Licensing
Training to become an electrician can be costly. Tuition and fees for a two-year public school were about $3,800 in 2019-2020. This covers classes and materials needed for your studies.
Apprenticeships, though paid, may have other expenses. Some costs might be subsidized, but you still need tools and textbooks. Licensing also requires fees which vary by state. These are some of the financial steps you’ll face on your journey to becoming an electrician or lineman.
In Summary
Becoming an electrician can be a wise career choice. You start with trade school and learn electrical fundamentals, tools, and safety requirements. Next, you complete an apprenticeship to gain hands-on experience.
After this, you take the exam to get your journeyman license. Many states have specific licensing rules that you’ll need to follow. Electricians often find work in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.
Are you ready to start your journey? Begin exploring local trade schools today!
