If you’re seeking a high-demand, well-paying career, becoming an electrician can be a rewarding choice. The modern world’s demand for electricians is insatiable. Powering homes and businesses, keeping new technology running, supporting renewable energy systems, maintaining electric grids and power systems — electricians’ expertise makes modern living possible.
Here’s all you need to know about becoming an electrician.
What Does an Electrician Do?
Electricians handle several tasks that ensure a safe and reliable flow of power:
- Electrical Installations: Electricians install wiring, receptacles, circuit breakers, lighting, appliances, renewable energy systems, control systems, equipment, and generators in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They ensure installations are compliant with local code requirements.
- Electrical Inspections: Electricians inspect and maintain electrical systems to meet safety codes and ensure they operate correctly.
- Repair and Troubleshoot Malfunctions: When electrical problems arise, electricians identify and repair malfunctions.
- Read and Interpret Wiring and Technical Diagrams: Electricians interpret blueprints and schematics to identify and plan the location of all the electrical receptacles, wiring, lighting, and other equipment in a building.
Pathways to Becoming an Electrician
Becoming an electrician requires extensive training. But here’s the most direct path to get started.
Step 1. Finish Your High School Education or the Equivalent
A high school diploma or equivalent (like a GED) is the starting point for many electricians. This education provides the basic foundation in math and physics required to begin electrician training.
Step 2. Learn on the Job Through an Apprenticeship
With a high school diploma or the equivalent, the fastest way to become an electrician is through on-the-job learning through an apprenticeship. Electrician requirements in many states include completing an apprenticeship for licensure, making it the most practical path into the trade.
Register with an apprenticeship program approved by either the U.S. Department of Labor, the city, county, or state governments. Depending on your state, you’ll need between 4,000 and 8,000 working hours as an apprentice to receive your licensure. This requirement ensures you gain the hands-on skills and knowledge to succeed in the trade.
Vocational or Trade School Isn’t Mandatory
Some vocational and trade schools offer programs to prepare students for a career as an electrician. They offer specialized training in electrical technology, such as:
- Electrical theory
- Building codes
- Safety practices
- Hands-on practical work
However, becoming an electrician doesn’t require a college program, and a vocational or trade school is often the longer path to join the trade. In fact, after completing these programs, an apprenticeship is still mandatory to earn a license in nearly all states.
How To Get Licensed and Certified
After completing an apprenticeship, you can apply for a journeyman electrician license. While the licensure process varies by state, most follow a similar structure:
- Apply Through Your Local Licensing Authority: Licensing is handled at the state or local level. Each jurisdiction has unique requirements, so check with your state’s licensing boards.
- Pass the Electrician Licensing Exam: Depending on where you live, you may need to pass an exam to prove you have the necessary knowledge to perform electrical work safely.
- Earn Distinct Licenses: You can qualify for different levels of electrician licensing.
| License or Certification | Privileges |
| Journeyman Electrician License | Allows independent work, usually under the supervision of a master electrician |
| Master Electrician License | Requires additional years of experience but lets you run your own business, pull permits, and supervise journeyman electricians |
| Specialty License | Offered in some states for specific areas such as low-voltage systems or renewable energy |
| Optional Certifications | Credentials from organizations such as NICET and ETA, which highlight expertise in specialized fields and can set you apart in the job market |
Role of Apprenticeships in Your Journey
An electrical apprenticeship provides the perfect opportunity to earn while you learn. Instead of being in class full-time, you work during the day and attend class at night. This model allows you to provide for yourself and your family and jumpstarts the hands-on experience employers value.
During an apprenticeship, you’ll work under the guidance of licensed electricians who teach you the practical side of the trade that you can’t learn in classrooms.
Essential Electrician Skills You Need
Electricians need a combination of technical knowledge and practical skills to handle the core responsibilities of their profession. Below are the essential skills required.
- Installation and repair
- Blueprint reading
- Material and tool identification
- Testing and troubleshooting
- Safety procedures
- Basic electrical theory
- Code compliance
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
The demand for electricians continues to grow as more residential and commercial properties depend on a reliable power system. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of electricians will grow 11% between 2023 and 2030, double the average growth rate for all other jobs.
What’s the Average Salary of an Electrician?
On average, an electrician earns $29.98 per hour, or about $62,350 per year. However, this is just the median wage. Experienced electricians or those with specialized licenses can earn $50 per hour or more. Master electricians can earn over $60 per hour or over $126,000 annually.
Is an Electrician a Stressful Job?
Being an electrician can sometimes be a stressful job.
Physically Demanding Work
Your work may require climbing, lifting, bending, and working in confined spaces.
Non-Traditional Hours
During an emergency, electricians may be called to work outside regular business hours.
Working in Harsh Conditions
Electricians often face environments that aren’t comfortable or predictable. Your workload can involve working outdoors in extreme heat or cold, or spending long hours in poorly lit or cramped areas.
Managing Safety Risks
Working with electricity always involves risk, and even a small mistake can be catastrophic. You must stay alert and follow strict safety protocols at all times.
However, many electricians find the job rewarding and manageable.
Take the First Step Toward Your Electrician Career
If you’re ready to turn your interest in electrical work into a career, the IEC electrical apprenticeship program is the best place to start. We offer nationally recognized programs that let you earn while you learn, giving you the hands-on training and classroom education you need to succeed in your career.
More importantly, you avoid student loan debt because the cost of your classroom education is often shared by your employer or covered by state funding. Explore the IEC apprentice program to learn more about how IEC can help you start building your future.
