How Long Does it Take to Become an Electrician?

Electricians are essential. 

They are skilled professionals who provide necessary and important services for all of us. Without them, we’d have no one to power our lights, refrigerators, televisions or cell phones.

Electricians don’t just power our homes; they work in high-rises, commercial buildings, and industrial factories. They play a vital role in keeping every aspect of our lives running smoothly, even if we don’t always realize it.

If you’ve made the decision to become an electrician -- congratulations -- it’s a wise choice.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians earned a median annual wage of $56,180 in 2019. Furthermore, top electricians can earn six figures - with the industry expected to grow by 10% over the next ten years.

This guide will help you understand the various types of electricians, what it takes, how to become one, and the educational/cost requirements needed to do so.

Let’s get right into the step by step process of how to become an electrician.  

1. Earn your high school diploma. This is mandatory, as you may not be able to pursue your career until you have one. This can be a diploma or a high school equivalency, such as a GED.

For those still in high school, consider taking these courses to better prepare yourself:

• • Math - to determine wire lengths, voltage requirements, and electrical currents
  • Physics - electrical circuit theory is part of most high school physics courses
  • English - while most of an electrician’s work is hands-on, they’re also expected to be able to write reports and communicate effectively with other professionals
  • Electronics - this will introduce you to the basics of electrical current, building circuit boards and soldering wires

If you’re an adult who didn’t finish high school, it’s possible to earn your diploma online within a few months.

2. Pursue a post-secondary certificate or associate’s degree through a college or trade school. Although this step isn’t required, it can help separate you from other apprentice applicants.

Electrician schooling provides a foundation of knowledge in electrical theory, wiring techniques, safety practices, and the national electrical code. Most courses will also include hands-on training. You can expect to pay anywhere from $4-20k depending on the school, and it usually takes 1-2 years to complete.

3. Register as an apprentice or trainee (if required). Some states, such as California and Texas, require aspiring electricians to be registered before they’re allowed to work on a job site. This is usually a quick and easy process where you fill out a form and pay a small fee. Check with your local labor authorities to determine the requirements in your area.

4. Find and Complete an Apprenticeship. It’s time to seek out an apprenticeship, which will gradually round out your skills and have you performing the tasks of a licensed electrician. You’ll be paid for your time and trained by either a master or journeyman electrician.

This phase takes about four years to complete, with 2000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of classroom lessons required to finish.

In terms of where to look, The U.S. Department of Labor offers a search tool to find apprenticeships close to you. You can also try searching online and contacting these organizations:

• • The National Electric Contractors Association (NECA)
  • Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC)

5. Obtain an Electrician License. Most states require electricians to be licensed and you’ll have to contact local officials in your district to find how and where you need to apply.