How to Be a Certified Electrician
The exact requirements to be a certified electrician will vary depending on where you live. In most cases there are apprenticeship and licensing requirements to complete in order to become an electrician. The process may take a few years but it is worth it and there is always a steady flow of work.
- Search for electrician apprenticeship programs. Select an apprenticeship program and apply to join the program. Call your state licensing agency and ask if the apprenticeship program you’ve selected is approved by the state and inquire about licensing requirements. Write down the person’s name you spoke with at the state licensing agency for your records. Register for the electrician apprenticeship program.
- Begin the electrician apprenticeship program. Take all the courses and required classroom hours. Complete the hands-on training hours. These training hours will be helpful with the training courses and any required testing.
- Start the licensing process once the apprenticeship program requirements have been met. Provide any requested proof from the electrician apprenticeship program and usually two forms of identification. Take any required exams to get your electrician license. Get information on how to qualify for other certifications. Complete the application for licensing and pay any required fees.
- Sign up for continuing education programs for electricians to learn more advanced skills.
- Determine if you want to work for a business or be self-employed as an electrician. Check for jobs in a variety of places and get any required additional licenses. The job you select should guide you in the direction of the career path you want to take as an electrician.
- Contact the National Electrical Contractors Association for questions with anything about being an electrician.