How to Become an Electrician
A complete guide to starting your electrician career in 2026
Career Overview
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. It's a skilled trade that offers strong job security, good pay, and the satisfaction of working with your hands.
Why Become an Electrician
- No college debt - you earn while you learn
- Strong demand and job security
- Median salary over $60,000/year
- Multiple career paths available
- Work is varied and challenging
- Essential trade that can't be outsourced
Considerations
- 4-5 years of training required
- Physical work - climbing, lifting, standing
- Some hazardous conditions
- May require travel to job sites
- Irregular hours on some projects
Basic Requirements
To begin training as an electrician, you need to meet these requirements:
Age
Must be at least 18 years old to work as an apprentice in most states
Education
High school diploma or GED required
Math Skills
Basic algebra and trigonometry for calculations
Physical Ability
Able to lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, work in tight spaces
Color Vision
Must identify wire colors accurately
Driver's License
Valid license for traveling to job sites
Education Options
High School Preparation
While still in high school, focus on:
- Math: Algebra, geometry, trigonometry
- Physics: Understanding of electrical concepts
- Shop/Technical Classes: Hands-on skills
- Blueprint Reading: If offered
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs (Optional)
Some community colleges and trade schools offer certificate programs that can give you a head start:
- 6-12 month programs
- Cover electrical theory basics
- May reduce apprenticeship time
- Cost: $3,000 - $15,000
Note: These are optional. Most electricians go directly into apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship Programs
The apprenticeship is the core of your electrician training. You'll work full-time while attending classes, typically for 4-5 years.
Union Apprenticeships (IBEW/NECA)
- Through IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers)
- Higher pay and benefits during training
- Competitive application process
- Free classroom training
- Strong networking and job placement
Non-Union Apprenticeships (IEC, ABC)
- Through IEC or ABC contractors
- More flexible scheduling
- Easier to get accepted
- May have tuition costs
- Work directly with contractors
What You'll Learn
- Year 1: Basic wiring, safety, NEC code introduction, hand tools
- Year 2: Residential wiring, circuit design, blueprint reading
- Year 3: Commercial systems, motor controls, troubleshooting
- Year 4: Industrial applications, advanced troubleshooting, project management
- Year 5 (some programs): Specialty systems, code updates, exam prep
Licensing Process
Licensing requirements vary by state. Most states have a multi-tier system:
Apprentice/Trainee License
Required in most states to begin working. Usually just requires registration.
Requirements: Age 18+, high school diploma, employer sponsorship
Journeyman License
The standard working license. Allows you to work independently.
Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, pass state exam, application fee
Master Electrician License
Advanced license for supervisors and business owners.
Requirements: 2-4 years as journeyman, additional exam, continuing education
Electrical Contractor License
Required to own an electrical business and pull permits.
Requirements: Master license, business exam, insurance, bond
Licensing requirements vary significantly by state.
Check Your State's Requirements →Electrician Specializations
After becoming a journeyman, you can specialize in specific areas:
Residential
New home construction, renovations, service calls
Commercial
Office buildings, retail, restaurants
Industrial
Factories, plants, heavy machinery
Low Voltage
Data cabling, security systems, fire alarms
Solar/Renewable
Solar panel installation, EV chargers
Lineworker
Power lines and utility work (separate training)
Salary & Job Outlook
Pay Progression
| Career Stage | Typical Hourly | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year Apprentice | $15-20/hr | $31,000-42,000 |
| 4th Year Apprentice | $25-35/hr | $52,000-73,000 |
| Journeyman | $28-45/hr | $58,000-94,000 |
| Master Electrician | $35-55/hr | $73,000-115,000 |
| Electrical Contractor | Varies | $80,000-200,000+ |
Source: BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to become an electrician?
Unlike college, you earn money during your apprenticeship. Union programs are typically free. Non-union programs may charge $1,000-5,000 for classroom training. Your main costs are tools ($500-2,000) and exam fees ($75-250).
Is electrician a good career in 2026?
Yes. The BLS projects 6% job growth through 2034. Demand is driven by construction, solar installations, EV infrastructure, and an aging workforce. The median salary exceeds $60,000 with no college debt.
Can I become an electrician without an apprenticeship?
Generally no. Most states require supervised work experience (typically 8,000 hours) to qualify for a journeyman license. This is almost always done through a formal or informal apprenticeship.
How long does it take to become a licensed electrician?
Most apprenticeships are 4-5 years. After completing your hours and passing the exam, you'll have a journeyman license. Total time from starting to journeyman: 4-5 years.
What's the difference between union and non-union?
Union (IBEW) apprenticeships typically offer higher pay, better benefits, and free training but are more competitive. Non-union (IEC, ABC) programs are easier to enter but may have lower starting pay and training costs.
Do electricians make good money?
Yes. Median salary is $61,590/year. Experienced electricians earn $80,000+. Master electricians and contractors can earn $100,000-200,000+. Union electricians in major cities often earn $45-55/hour.
Ready to Start?
Find the specific licensing requirements for your state:
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