Career roadmap
How to Become an Electrical Lineworker
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an electrical lineworker, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an electrical lineworker: (1) finish high school and get in shape, (2) earn a CDL, (3) attend a lineworker pre-apprenticeship school, (4) join a line apprenticeship, (5) top out as a journeyman. Most people need about 3–4 years (apprenticeship). BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an electrical lineworker
Finish high school and get in shape
Math and physical fitness matter: climbing and lifting are demanding.
Earn a CDL
Many programs and employers require or prefer a Class A CDL.
Attend a lineworker pre-apprenticeship school
Learn climbing, rigging, basic electrical theory and safety.
Join a line apprenticeship
Work for a utility or line contractor while completing on-the-job and classroom training.
Top out as a journeyman
Advance to crew leader, troubleshooter or substation and transmission work.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma or GED is required. Many lineworkers attend a pre-apprenticeship lineworker school (often 10–16 weeks), then complete a paid apprenticeship of roughly three to four years. A CDL is commonly required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
Certifications and licenses
- Journeyman lineworker: Earned by completing a registered apprenticeship and passing journeyman tests.
- CDL Class A: Commonly required to drive line trucks.
- OSHA 1910.269 training: Covers electric power generation, transmission and distribution safety.
- First aid and CPR: Required for lineworkers who may need to perform pole-top or bucket rescue.
Skills to build now
Start with pole climbing, bucket truck and digger derrick operation, and rigging and conductor work, and practice teamwork and trust and calm under pressure. Learning the electrical lineworker vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Groundworker or Line Apprentice: Support crews and learn climbing and rigging.
- Journeyman Lineworker: Build and maintain energized lines.
- Crew Leader or Troubleshooter: Lead crews or respond to outages.
- Line Supervisor or Operations Manager: Oversee construction and maintenance programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Electrical Lineworker training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a journeyman lineworker?
Typically three to four years in a paid apprenticeship, often after a lineworker pre-apprenticeship school.
Do lineworkers need a college degree?
No. Lineworkers train through line schools and apprenticeships, and a CDL is commonly required.
How long does it take to become an electrical lineworker?
Most people need about 3–4 years (apprenticeship) of training. A high school diploma or GED is required. Many lineworkers attend a pre-apprenticeship lineworker school (often 10–16 weeks), then complete a paid apprenticeship of roughly three to four years. A CDL is commonly required.
Do you need a degree to be an electrical lineworker?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9051 (Electrical power-line installers and repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Electrical power-line installers and repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.