Are you a patient problem solver with a knack for completing hands-on tasks? You might possess the skills necessary to become a skilled electrician. This challenging profession is a great option for those passionate about hands-on technical work in diverse settings where no two days are the same. 

We’ve created this career guide to answer your questions about how to become an electrician from beginning to end. It can be a long process, but it leads to a fulfilling, lucrative career.

The Path to Becoming an Electrician

You do not need a college degree to become an electrician. While some students attend trade schools, others strictly pursue apprenticeships and learn on the job. 

Whatever path you take, you must meet your state’s professional licensing requirements. As a new apprentice, your goal will be to earn a basic journeyman license.

Your route to becoming a master electrician might begin on one of the paths below. 

Attend Trade School

Many students learn best through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. If you begin the licensing process by attending trade school, you’ll build a strong foundation in safety and critical electrical concepts. 

Most trade programs are extremely hands-on, and classroom learning involves lower stakes than paid apprenticeships. Often, trade programs require students to become an apprentice before completing the program. In several states, practical classroom hours count toward state licensing requirements, too. 

If you live in a state that does not require an apprenticeship, trade school may be the clearest path toward meeting your goals. 

Trade schools are not colleges, and students consistently leave their programs with little to no student loan debt. In fact, many electrical unions will pay for a student’s education once they step into an apprenticeship or professional role. All you need to apply is your high school diploma, making it an accessible option for most graduates.

Because of state apprenticeship requirements, many classes are only offered at night. Other programs offer a full day of classes once per week. Both formats allow you to complete your on-the-job hours efficiently and earn a full paycheck while you study.

Complete an Electrical Apprenticeship 

Whether or not you attend a trade school, you will most likely need to complete an electrical apprenticeship. You will shadow a licensed journeyman electrician and learn as you work. As you develop skills and gain confidence, you’ll find yourself completing more and more tasks independently. 

Prospective electricians should seek to gain experience in many different settings. This will allow you to transition between residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Your skill set will be transferable. You shouldn’t need any special training to transition between these specialties, but you should check with electricians who have made a similar transition.

By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll be ready to work without direct supervision. You might even supervise an apprentice yourself. 

While specific steps will vary by state, here are the general steps for how to become an electrician apprentice: 

• Research Apprenticeships – Learn as much as you can about the licensing requirements in your location. Start by contacting your local electrician’s union and asking about their requirements. If you’re interested in non-union apprenticeships, you’ll need to make a lot of calls. Reach out to several local companies and find out which ones are hiring. 
  
• Apply to the Position – The application process will differ depending on whether you choose a union or non-union apprenticeship.
  

When applying for non-union apprenticeships, the process is like applying for any other entry-level job. When applying to union roles, you’ll need to follow very specific guidelines. Many unions only accept applications during limited windows. Be sure to follow directions closely, as programs can be competitive.

• Pass an Aptitude Test – If you meet the minimum requirements for the apprenticeship, the company or union will ask you to take an aptitude test. The exam will test your reading and mathematical skills, which you’ll need to perform your job duties successfully.
  
• Give a Strong Interview – If you do well on your aptitude test, the union or company will invite you to attend an interview.  Brush up on your interview skills and prove to the employer that you deserve the position. 

From research to interview, the process of acquiring an apprenticeship takes approximately three months. 

Make sure your materials are complete and free of any spelling or grammatical errors. Many applicants include a portfolio with examples of their work. If you’re nervous, consider taking a test preparation course or look into interview coaching. 

Pursue Professional Licensing 

The final step in the process is applying for your initial journeyman’s license. You’ll need proof of your classroom and on-the-job hours, including signed paperwork from each of your supervising journeymen. Submit your documentation to the state along with a complete application. 

In some states, that’s all you need to do to obtain your initial license. In other states, you may need to schedule and sit for a licensing exam. 

How Long Does it Take to Become an Electrician? 

The answer to “How long to become an electrician” depends on your chosen path. Nearly all programs require a minimum number of on-the-job (OTJ) hours before issuing a journeyman license. The average state requires 8,000 OTJ hours for licensure. 

Many states also require prospective electricians to complete a minimum number of classroom hours or units. If you attend a trade program, you can often reduce your OTJ hour requirement. Most states require about 200 classroom hours. Completing a trade program can take anywhere between nine months to two years. 

If you choose a short trade program and find an intensive apprenticeship immediately, you may be able to become an electrician in as little as four years. In most cases, however, expect the process to take about five years. 

The good news is that electricians have strong unions, so you will receive full compensation during your electrical apprenticeship.

How Hard Is It to Become an Electrician? 

Working as an electrician is challenging, which is why it’s known as a “skilled trade.” The work can be incredibly dangerous, so ensure you take the time to fully absorb all aspects of the job and avoid rushing your education. 

Prepare to commit at least five years to the training process and two additional years as a licensed journeyman. After that, you may choose to pursue your master electrician license.

Great electricians aren’t afraid to continuously learn and grow. Begin the process with that mindset, and the road to becoming a master electrician won’t be difficult. 

Your Future as a Licensed Electrician Begins Today

If you begin the process today, you can become a journeyman electrician in the time it takes your peers to complete their undergraduate degrees. The difference is you’ll already have a paying position, years of experience, and a clear path toward growth. 
Start your journey by asking a real-life professional your lingering questions about how to become an electrician, then go forth and pursue your dream.