Career roadmap
How to Become an Electrician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an electrician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an electrician: (1) finish high school or earn a GED, (2) apply to an apprenticeship, (3) complete on-the-job and classroom hours, (4) pass the journeyman exam, (5) specialize or go master. Most people need about 4–5 years (paid apprenticeship). BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an electrician
Finish high school or earn a GED
Algebra and physics are especially useful: apprenticeship aptitude tests include math and reading.
Apply to an apprenticeship
Options include union programs (IBEW/NECA joint apprenticeships), non-union programs (IEC, ABC) and employer-sponsored apprenticeships.
Complete on-the-job and classroom hours
Work under licensed electricians while studying electrical theory, code and safety.
Pass the journeyman exam
Earn your license and start working independently.
Specialize or go master
Specialize in industrial controls, solar, low voltage or high voltage, or earn a master license and start a business.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma or GED is required for most apprenticeships. Apprentices complete roughly 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training plus classroom instruction over four to five years, then take a licensing exam. Some start with a pre-apprenticeship or technical school program.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Apprenticeship |
| Typical training time | 4–5 years (paid apprenticeship) |
Certifications and licenses
- Journeyman electrician license: Issued by most states or localities after completing apprenticeship hours and passing an exam based on the NEC.
- Master electrician license: Advanced license required in many areas to pull permits and run a contracting business.
- OSHA 10 / OSHA 30: Construction safety training often required by employers and job sites.
- NFPA 70E training: Electrical safety in the workplace, including arc-flash protection.
Skills to build now
Start with reading blueprints and schematics, nec code knowledge, and conduit bending, and practice problem-solving and attention to detail. Learning the electrician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Electrical Apprentice: Learn on the job under licensed electricians.
- Journeyman Electrician: Work independently on installations and repairs.
- Foreman or Specialist: Lead crews or specialize in controls, solar or high voltage.
- Master Electrician or Contractor: Pull permits, design systems and run a business.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Electrician 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 an electrician?
Most apprenticeships take four to five years, combining about 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, followed by a journeyman licensing exam.
How long does it take to become an electrician?
Most people need about 4–5 years (paid apprenticeship) of training. A high school diploma or GED is required for most apprenticeships. Apprentices complete roughly 8,000 hours of paid on-the-job training plus classroom instruction over four to five years, then take a licensing exam. Some start with a pre-apprenticeship or technical school program.
Do you need a degree to be an electrician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus apprenticeship.
What certifications are available for electricians?
Common credentials include Journeyman electrician license, Master electrician license, OSHA 10 / OSHA 30, and NFPA 70E training. Most states require electricians to be licensed, typically at apprentice, journeyworker and master levels. Requirements and reciprocity vary by state and sometimes by city.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-2111 (Electricians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Electricians (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.