How to Become an Electrician in North Carolina

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in North Carolina

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $54,320/year
Job Outlook: 10% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 8 hours/annual

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

⚠️ Important Note for North Carolina

North Carolina licenses electrical contractors, not individual journeymen. Contractors must pass exam based on license class.

Electrician License Requirements in North Carolina

Licensing Authority

North Carolina Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors

Phone: (919) 733-9042

Website: https://www.ncbeec.org/

Official Source: https://www.ncbeec.org/

License Types & Requirements

Apprentice Electrician

  • Exam Required: No
  • Requirements: Must work under licensed contractor; no state registration required

Limited License (SP-SFD)

  • Required Hours: 4,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $60
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours experience, limited to single-family dwellings

Intermediate License (SP-PH)

  • Required Hours: 6,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Requirements: 6,000 hours experience, limited scope

Unlimited License (U)

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, pass unlimited contractor exam

Path to Becoming an Electrician in North Carolina

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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Check specific licensing requirements with the state board.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to North Carolina Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in North Carolina

Entry Level: $37,580/year
Median Salary: $54,320/year
Experienced: $71,280/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • South Carolina
  • Virginia
  • Georgia

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

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in North Carolina

  • Charlotte
  • Raleigh
  • Greensboro
  • Durham
  • Winston-Salem

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in North Carolina, you must complete 8 hours of continuing education every annual.

Start Your Electrician Career in North Carolina

Contact the North Carolina Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors for application details and approved training programs.

Visit Licensing Board

Recommended Resources

📘
NFPA 70: NEC 2026 Required for most exams
📗
Ugly's Electrical References Quick reference guide
🔧
Klein Tools Apprentice Tool Set Essential hand tools

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