How to Become an Electrician in Rhode Island

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Rhode Island

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $62,340/year
Job Outlook: 7% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 10 hours/annual

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

⚠️ Important Note for Rhode Island

Rhode Island requires statewide licensing for all electricians

Electrician License Requirements in Rhode Island

Licensing Authority

Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training

Phone: (401) 462-8000

Website: https://dlt.ri.gov/

Official Source: https://dlt.ri.gov/

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: $75
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, pass journeyman exam

Master Electrician

  • Required Hours: 12,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours as journeyman, pass master exam

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Rhode Island

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 Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Rhode Island

Entry Level: $44,280/year
Median Salary: $62,340/year
Experienced: $81,560/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

Rhode Island has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • Massachusetts
  • Connecticut

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

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Rhode Island

  • Providence
  • Warwick
  • Cranston
  • Pawtucket
  • East Providence

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Rhode Island, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education every annual.

Start Your Electrician Career in Rhode Island

Contact the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training 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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