How to Become an Electrician in Washington

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

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $78,540/year
Job Outlook: 10% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 24 hours/triennial (3 years)

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

⚠️ Important Note for Washington

Washington has robust statewide licensing with multiple specialty categories

Electrician License Requirements in Washington

Licensing Authority

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries

Phone: (360) 902-5800

Website: https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/electrical/

Official Source: https://lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/electrical/

License Types & Requirements

Electrical Trainee

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $42
  • Requirements: Must register and work under licensed electrician

Journeyman Electrician (01)

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - L&I
  • Application Fee: $89
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, 96 hours classroom training, pass exam

Master Electrician

  • Required Hours: 12,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - L&I
  • Application Fee: $116
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours as journeyman, pass master exam

Residential Electrician (02)

  • Required Hours: 4,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - L&I
  • Application Fee: $89
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours experience, limited to residential

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Washington

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 Washington, 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 Washington take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the L&I journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Washington State Department of Labor and Industries with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Washington

Entry Level: $54,180/year
Median Salary: $78,540/year
Experienced: $103,560/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

Washington has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • Oregon
  • Idaho
  • Montana

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

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Washington

  • Seattle
  • Spokane
  • Tacoma
  • Vancouver
  • Bellevue

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Washington, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years).

Start Your Electrician Career in Washington

Contact the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries 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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