How to Become an Electrician in Maryland

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Maryland

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $62,480/year
Job Outlook: 8% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 10 hours/biennial (2 years)

✓ Information verified from official sources (Last updated: 2025-01-27)

⚠️ Important Note for Maryland

Maryland has statewide licensing; some counties have additional local requirements

Electrician License Requirements in Maryland

Licensing Authority

Maryland Department of Labor - State Board of Master Electricians

Phone: (410) 230-6231

Website: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/license/elec/

License Types & Requirements

Apprentice Electrician

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $25
  • Requirements: Must register and work under licensed electrician

Journeyman Electrician

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience (4 years), pass journeyman exam

Master Electrician

  • Required Hours: 14,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Requirements: 7 years total experience, 3 years as journeyman, pass master exam

Electrical Contractor

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $200
  • Requirements: Must hold master license, obtain liability insurance and bond

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Maryland

Step 1: Complete High School Education

Earn a high school diploma or GED. Focus on math (especially algebra and trigonometry), physics, and shop classes if available.

Step 2: Enter an Apprenticeship Program

Apply to an apprenticeship program through a union (IBEW) or independent electrical contractor. In Maryland, you'll typically need 8000 hours of on-the-job training.

Step 3: Complete Required Hours

Work under supervision while logging your hours. Most apprenticeships in Maryland take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the PSI journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Maryland Department of Labor - State Board of Master Electricians with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Maryland

Entry Level: $43,180/year
Median Salary: $62,480/year
Experienced: $81,920/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

Maryland has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • Delaware
  • Pennsylvania
  • Virginia
  • Washington D.C.

This means if you're licensed in one of these states, you may be able to obtain a Maryland license with reduced requirements.

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Maryland

  • Baltimore
  • Frederick
  • Rockville
  • Gaithersburg
  • Bowie

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Maryland, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education every biennial (2 years).

Start Your Electrician Career in Maryland

Contact the Maryland Department of Labor - State Board of Master Electricians for application details and approved training programs.

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