Becoming an apprentice electrician might be simpler than you realize. First, earn your high school diploma (or the equivalent, such as a GED). Next, find the right apprenticeship program for you and submit your application. If your application is approved, you’ll get hands-on experience and classroom training while earning, setting you on a clear path toward becoming a licensed journeyman.
But it’s wise to look into the details on how to become an apprentice electrician so that you can know what exactly to expect.
Why Choose a Career in the Electrical Trades?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025), an electrician earns approximately $29.98 per hour ($62,350 annually). With 818,700 jobs in 2024 and a projected growth of 9% through 2034, the electrical trade adds about 77,400 openings per year, offering you financial security and strong career prospects.
If you choose an apprenticeship through IEC, which follows the merit shop philosophy, career advancement is based on performance instead of seniority or union rules. That means if you’re a dedicated apprentice, you can move your career forward faster, taking on new responsibilities and higher pay as you prove yourself on the job.
From apprentice to journeyman to master electrician, each step opens doors to leadership roles or business ownership.
What Is an Electrical Apprenticeship?
An electrical apprenticeship is a program that lets you work alongside an experienced electrician while you gain relevant skills and experience to become a qualified electrician. Instead of paying tuition fees as you would at traditional trade schools, you earn money while receiving hands-on training under the guidance of an experienced electrician.
Apprentices rotate through different specialties, from residential wiring to commercial and industrial projects, so they graduate with a well-rounded skill set.
But how long does it take to complete an electrical apprenticeship? On average, an apprenticeship lasts about four years.
Apprenticeship vs. Trade School
| Electrical Apprenticeship | Trade School |
| Paid to work while training | Pay tuition |
| Earn wages and benefits during training | No earnings while in school |
| Hands-on, real-world jobsite experience plus classroom instruction | Primarily classroom and lab-based learning |
| Takes 4-5 years to be licensed | Usually 1-2 years |
Do you still need an apprenticeship if you go to trade school? In the United States, it’s nearly impossible to become an electrician without an apprenticeship. While each state has its own regulations, you’ll need between 4,000 and 8,000 hours of work as an apprentice to get licensed.
Minimum Requirements To Apply
While the eligibility for apprentice electricians depends on the program you apply for, you’re usually required to meet a few basic qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have a strong math foundation
Some apprenticeship programs might require you to have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to travel to various job sites. You might also be required to pass an aptitude test that covers math and mechanical reasoning to ensure you’re prepared for the responsibilities and hands-on training that come with the apprenticeship. Other programs require a background check or proof of Selective Service registration.
How To Find the Right Apprenticeship Program
With an understanding of how to become an electrician apprentice with no experience, the next step is finding the right program. You can join a merit shop program through an organization like IEC, enroll in a union program like IBEW, or apply directly with a local electrical contractor.
Each pathway has a unique structure, so it’s worth exploring which one aligns best with your goals and learning styles.
IBEW vs. IEC vs. Direct-to-Employer
Union apprenticeship programs, such as those offered by IBEW, provide structured training and compensation. While you get a clear career path, advancement is often tied to seniority and union rules.
Merit shops, like IEC, offer training and payment, too, but your career advancement is based on performance and dedication rather than seniority. With a national network of merit shops, IEC merit shops let you gain hands-on experience across various projects while earning a competitive wage. This flexibility makes IEC a strong option if you want to work hard and be rewarded on merit and skill as well as access opportunities nationwide.
Some local electrical contractors hire apprentices directly. These positions can vary widely in training structure and project exposure. So, ask detailed questions about what the program offers.
Where To Look for Openings
Start by reaching out to local contractors for an electrical apprenticeship near you, because many hire apprentices directly. You can also check IEC chapter websites, which list openings and program details.
Trade schools can be another resource. Ask instructors or career advisers if they have a partnership with apprenticeship programs.
Getting Started: Applications, Tests, and What To Expect
How you get started will depend on the specific program you’re applying for, but most apprenticeships have a similar process.
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Fill out your program’s application form and provide the required documents, such as a high school diploma or GED, and a government-issued ID.
Step 2: Take the Aptitude Test
Most apprenticeships require a written test to confirm that you’re ready for classroom and on-the-job training.
Step 3: Complete the Interview
If you pass the test, your program coordinator (or apprenticeship committee) will invite you for an interview. The interview will give you a chance to show your motivation and willingness to learn.
Step 4: Secure Your Apprentice License or Trainee Card
Depending on your state, you might require an electrical trainee card or apprentice license before you can officially start working on job sites.
Step 5: Begin Your Apprenticeship
Once accepted, you’ll start the program, splitting your time between classroom instruction and hands-on training under the supervision of experienced electricians.
Career Progression After Your Apprenticeship
Upon completing your apprenticeship, you’ll earn your journeyman license, which shows you’ve met the required hours and skills to work independently. You’ll move from an electrician apprentice salary to journeyman rates.
From there, your career can take several directions:
- Specialize in areas like industrial systems, commercial projects, or renewable energy.
- Move into leadership roles such as foreman or project manager.
- Advance further toward becoming a master electrician.
- Pursue business ownership by obtaining a contractor license and running your own company.
At IEC, our merit shop system lets you start your career as an electrician and advance through performance and dedication. With a curriculum recognized as one of the best teaching tools for electrical apprentices in the nation, you can build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the electrical trade. Join IEC’s apprenticeship program today and take the first step in building a career with long-term growth and opportunity.