Apprenticeships

• Apprenticeships are a popular way to enter the electrical contracting field. Apprentice programs typically last four to five years, and include extensive on-the-job training. You will likely be paid for your time as you receive this training, and may be eligible for funding for classroom training from the organization sponsoring your apprenticeship. To find an apprenticeship program, visit the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee website.
  
  

Classroom Training

• You may need to receive a certain number of hours of classroom training, depending on licensing requirements in your state. This can include training in the use of equipment for electrical contractors, reading blueprints, compliance with electrical codes or other regulations and job site safety. Programs may end with certification in some aspect electrical work. The NJATC website is also a good place to look for the best training programs in your area.
  
  

Licensing

• Become licensed as an electrician by your state's contractors licensing board. You will most likely have to have some training through apprenticeship programs or classroom training to be eligible for a license, be at least 18 years old, and usually have a high school degree or high school equivalency.
  
  

Codes/Regulation

• Electrical codes and their enforcement can vary widely depending on location. Several states have adopted the National Electrical Code and maintain a central agency for the purpose of regulation and enforcement of their electrical code, while other states have no electrical code or central regulating body, instead leaving the job of conducting inspections, creating electrical codes and enforcement of regulations to counties and cities.
  
  

Continuing Training

• Many states require that licensed electrical contractors continue their education periodically throughout the entirety of their careers. This is to ensure that electricians keep up-to-date with changes to electrical codes and have an opportunity to learn new techniques in the field. Requirements differ in each state, but generally you will need several hours of classroom training in order to comply with any continuing training requirements and renew your license.