How to Become an Electrician

Yes, but it requires some homework upfront. Electrical work requires a state license in most states, which involves a background check. However, most states do not automatically disqualify people with criminal records. States evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation.

Before investing time and money in training, take this critical step: contact your state's electrical licensing board and request a pre-determination or preliminary review of your record. Many states offer this process, which tells you upfront whether your specific record would be a barrier to licensing. States with more lenient policies include California, Colorado, Illinois, and many others that have passed 'fair chance licensing' laws in recent years. Sexual offenses and theft-related felonies may face more scrutiny since electricians often work in homes and businesses. Non-violent offenses that are more than 5-7 years old are generally not disqualifying in most states.

The standard and recommended path to becoming an electrician is through a registered apprenticeship. Here is how it works: You apply to an apprenticeship program through a union (IBEW), non-union association (IEC, ABC), or directly with an electrical contractor. If accepted, you work full-time as an apprentice electrician under the supervision of licensed journeymen. You earn a wage from day one, typically starting at $18-$22/hour (40-50% of journeyman rate) and increasing every 6-12 months.

Simultaneously, you attend classroom instruction (usually evenings or weekends) covering electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), blueprint reading, and safety. After completing 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and required classroom hours (typically 4-5 years), you are eligible to take the journeyman electrician exam. Passing this exam earns you a journeyman license, and you can work independently. The apprenticeship path has a huge advantage: you earn a good wage the entire time you are training, with no tuition costs.

Most states require electricians to hold a license to work independently. The typical licensing path is: complete an apprenticeship or equivalent supervised experience (4-5 years), then pass a journeyman electrician exam. The exam covers the National Electrical Code, electrical theory, and local codes. Some states have statewide licensing, while others defer to local jurisdictions.

A few states (including Kansas, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New York) do not have statewide electrician licensing, though local jurisdictions within those states may require it. States that do require licensing almost always conduct a background check as part of the application. If your state has strict licensing barriers for your record, consider working in a state without statewide licensing requirements, or focus on electrical specialties that may have different requirements (like low-voltage or telecommunications wiring).

The median annual wage for electricians is $61,590 according to the most recent BLS data. The top 10% earn over $104,180. Apprentice electricians start at $37,000-$46,000 and see steady increases throughout their training. Journeyman electricians typically earn $55,000-$85,000 depending on location and specialty. Master electricians and electrical contractors can earn $80,000-$120,000+.

Job growth for electricians is projected at 11% through 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 73,500 electrician positions open each year. The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (requiring charging station installation), solar panel systems, smart home technology, and data center construction are all driving additional demand. Electricians who specialize in renewable energy or EV charging installation are particularly well-positioned for growth.

Electricians can specialize in several areas, each with different pay scales and licensing requirements. Residential electricians wire new homes and do repairs in existing homes. Commercial electricians work on office buildings, retail stores, and other commercial properties -- generally higher pay than residential. Industrial electricians maintain and repair electrical systems in factories and plants -- this is often the highest-paid specialty for journeyman electricians. Lineworkers install and maintain power lines and earn some of the highest wages in the electrical field ($78,310 median).

Low-voltage technicians work on data cables, security systems, fire alarms, and telecommunications. This specialty often has different (and sometimes less restrictive) licensing requirements than high-voltage electrical work. Renewable energy electricians specialize in solar panel installation and EV charging systems -- a rapidly growing niche. Control systems electricians work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial automation, which is in high demand as manufacturing becomes more automated.

If you go the apprenticeship route, there is no tuition to pay -- you earn a wage from day one. For pre-apprenticeship programs or trade school, fill out the FAFSA at studentaid.gov to access Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year). WIOA grants through your local American Job Center can pay for approved electrical training programs. The Electrical Training Alliance (NJATC) and various IBEW locals offer scholarships. Some states have specific funding for people with criminal records entering skilled trades -- ask your workforce development office.

Veterans can use GI Bill benefits for approved electrical apprenticeship and training programs. The Helmets to Hardhats program specifically helps veterans transition into construction and electrical apprenticeships. If you are age 16-24, Job Corps offers free electrical training at no cost.