How to become a licensed Electrician

For those who wish to become a licensed electrician, you must complete an apprenticeship program that will take 140+ hours per year within 3 to 5 years of occupational training. Apprentice must be at least 18 years old and completed a high school diploma. They are many ways to take this program such as being a sponsored student from an electrical union or in a private contractor. You can the check National Electrician Contractors Association and the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee to apply for available apprenticeship programs.  

Becoming a licensed Electrician is not an overnight thing. This training is designed to produce competency for aspiring electricians and for them to specialize skills as well as knowledge in different areas of electrical works. This is not just a simple training because it is a blend of on and off the job training. That is why you are required to be physically fit for you to be able to do manual labor. Some apprenticeship programs may require the applicant to take an entry test.

There are various types of Electrical work you can choose from such as General Electrician, Residential Electrician, Fire/Life/ Safety Technician, Voice Data Video Technician, Non- Residential Lightning Technician and many more. Electricians are the ones who install, alter, construct, repair, maintain, test, calibrate and operate related electrical and electronic systems in any premise, place, building and structure. They insure and guarantee that all electrical connections are safe and meet standards set by the National Electrical Code.

After completing the apprenticeship program, you can now apply for an electrician licensing exam from the state you want to work in. This licensing exam covers topics like National Electrical Codes, Local Electrical and Building Codes, Electrical Safety and other electrical practices and procedures.  Licensed electrician must take an Electrical Continuing Education every year or biannual depending on their state requirements so they will be aware and updated of any changes of National Electrical Codes, Federal Codes, State Safety codes and other electrical-related skill and practices.