2025 Electrician Licensing Requirements By State

In the United States, electrician contractor licensing requirements differ by state. Some states license electricians to register at the state level, while others require electricians to apply locally (city/county). The application process can then range from simple to complex and involve anything from exams, submitting W-2s, business registration, or obtaining additional licenses.‍

Why Do You Need an Electrical Contractor License?

You need an electrical contractor license to run your own business. This license protects the public by ensuring contractors are qualified and grants contractors the ability to hire other licensed electricians, bid on jobs, and apply for permits.

How Do You Apply for an Electrical Contractor License?

Every state is different, but you generally need to:

1. Decide which license you need. For example, Georgia has three types of licenses: low voltage, single-phase systems under 200 amperes, and all electrical systems. Other states may offer different classifications, such as a residential electrical contractor license, a limited electrical contractor license, or an unlimited electrical contractor license.

2. Check that you meet prerequisites. Most boards require you to be at least 18, hold a high school diploma, and complete an approved apprenticeship program. You’ll usually need documented hours of experience, combining on-the-job training and classroom training.

3. Gather necessary documents. This may include your state-issued ID, W-2s or employer affidavits to verify practical experience, and proof of completing an apprenticeship training program.

4. Take required exams. Many states require passing a Journeyman Electrician License exam before you can move on to a Master Electrician License or Electrical Contractor License.

5. Check business requirements. If you’re opening your own electrical contracting business, you may need to form a legal entity, carry liability insurance, or meet bonding requirements.

6. Fill out an application and pay any required fees.

7. Check requirements for renewal in case your renewal requires taking continued education before it can be re-issued.

How Much Does an Electrical Contractor License Cost?

Electrical Contractor license fees generally cost between $75 and $200. The application fee varies by state, requiring some contractors to show proof of insurance or take exams. Some states also require electricians to obtain a generic contractor or business license.‍

Electrical License Renewals

You generally have a period of 1-3 years before electrical license renewals. A state licensing body at the local level would send you a postal or email reminder around eight weeks before time.

If you don’t renew your electrical license, work permits will not be issued, and the cost may increase or require additional work to renew.

Some electricians must have complete continued education to qualify for renewals. For example, the Alabama Board of Electrical Contractors on renewal of an Alabama electrical license requirement consists of you completing 14-hour continuing education classes every two years, and seven must be on NEC/NFPA courses.‍

Electrical Contractor License Changes

The requirements to make changes to your license, like changing a phone number or address, vary from state to state. Most changes are free and can be done online. However, some states charge between $5 to $12 or ask you to renew your license altogether. Changes may consist of the following:

• Change your name
• Change mailing address
• Change physical address
• Change telephone number
• Change email address

Electrician Licensing Requirements By State

Below you’ll find more information on electrical contractor licensing in your state, including:

• State certification authority: The state website containing everything you need to know about obtaining an electrician contractor license with all available information.
• License cost: The cost to obtain an electrical contractor license for the first time.
• Requirements: Any requirements of the license, including exams and continuing education courses.
• Application: A link to the state certification form.
• Renewal: How often you need to renew your electrical contractor license.
• Renewal cost: How much it costs to renew your electrical contractor license.
• Changes: Where to make changes to your license, such as your name and address, and the price.
• Replacement: How to replace your license and how much it would cost if your license were lost or stolen.

Alabama

State Certification Authority: Alabama Electrical Contractors Board

License Cost: In Alabama, the Journeyman Electrician examination fee is $115 and the license fee is $35. The Electrical Contractor examination fee is $165 and the license fee is $150.

Requirements: In Alabama, applicants must complete 8,000 hours of documented electrical work through an approved apprenticeship program or equivalent on the job training and classroom instruction before qualifying to sit for the Journeyman or Electrical Contractor exam.

Application: Application for Licensure (Electrical Contractor and Journeyman)

Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually and can be completed online or by submitting the renewal form . Licensed Electrical Contractors must complete 14 hours of continuing education every two years.

Renewal Cost: In Alabama, the Electrical Contractor license renewal fee is $150, while the Journeyman Electrician license renewal fee is $35.

Changes: Business name changes require a $25 fee, and address updates also require a $25 reissuance card fee.

Replacement: Reissuance and replacement license cards cost $25 through the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board.

Alaska

State Certification Authority: Alaska Department of Labor and Workplace Development

License cost: The total license fee is $320 for the Electrical Administrator license.

Requirements: Applicants must pass the electrical administrator examination with a score of at least 70% within the past 12 months, meet the experience qualifications for their chosen category (such as residential electrical wiring or unlimited commercial wiring), and submit supporting documents.

Application: Electrical Administrator License by Examination Application Instructions

Renewal: The Electrical Administrator license must be renewed biennially and expire on December 31 of odd-numbered years.

Renewal Cost: The renewal fee is $170.

Changes: To change your name or address, you’ll need to submit a notarized form.

Replacement: If your Electrical Administrator license card is lost or damaged, you can request a duplicate through the Alaska Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing. The replacement card fee is $5.

Arizona

State Certification Authority: Arizona Registrar of Contractors

License Cost: $480 for license fees plus a $100 application fee.

Requirements: To qualify for the C-11 Electrical license in Arizona, applicants must have 4 years of electrical trade experience, pass the Statutes and Rules Exam and the Trade Exam, and obtain solar certification if any solar work will be performed.

Application: To become a certified electrician in Arizona, apply here.

Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years. Learn more here.

Renewal Cost: The renewal fee is $480.

Changes: To make changes to your business name, fill out the Business Name Change Form . If you need to change address, phone, or email, complete the Change of Address/Contact Information Form.

Replacement: If your Arizona contractor license card is lost or damaged, you can request a duplicate through the Registrar of Contractors . The replacement license card fee is $25.

Arkansas

State Certification Authority: Arkansas State Board of Electrical Examiners

License Cost: For Journeyman and Master Electricians in Arkansas, the exam fee is $80 and the license fee is $50.

Requirements: In Arkansas, a Journeyman Electrician generally needs about 4 years of electrical work experience or equivalent training, while a Master Electrician needs around 6 years of experience, including time as a licensed Journeyman Electrician.

Application: Electrical Application

Renewal: In Arkansas, electrical licenses expire one year after they’re issued, on the last day of that month. You can renew for 1, 2, or 3 years at a time depending on where you are in the NEC code cycle.

Renewal Cost: The cost is $50 per year for licensed Master Electrician and $25 per year for Journeymen (including Residential Journeyman, Industrial Electrician and Maintenance, or Electric Sign Specialists).

Changes: Notify the board for a change of address.

Replacement: If your license card is lost or damaged, you can request a duplicate from the Arkansas State Board of Electrical Examiners.

California

State Certification Authority: Electrical Contractors’ State Licensing Board

License Cost: The application fee is $450.

Requirements: To be licensed as an electrical contractor in California, you must have at least four years of experience at or above the level of a Journeyman Electrical License and pass both the trade exam and the Law & Business exam.

Application: Application for Original Contractor License

Renewal: Electrical contractor licenses in California must be renewed every two years. Around 60 days before your license expires, CSLB will mail you a renewal application. You can learn more here.

Renewal Cost: $450

Changes: Apply to change business name or address here.

Replacement: Replacements can be requested here.

Colorado

State Certification Authority: Colorado State Electrical Board

License Cost: The cost is not listed on the Colorado State Electrical Board.

Requirements: In Colorado, a Journeyman Electrician must complete 8,000 hours of experience over at least 4 years, and 288 hours of classroom education. A Master Electrician must either hold a degree from an accredited college with 2,000 hours of construction experience, graduate from a trade school with 8,000 hours of experience, or complete 2,000 additional hours beyond the Journeyman requirements.

Application: To apply, you must log into the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations Online Services portal.

Renewal: Licenses expire on September 30th and renew every three years.

Renewal Cost: N/A

Changes: You can update and change your license name and address information here.

Replacement: N/A

Connecticut

State Certification Authority: Electrical Board of Occupational Licensing

License Cost: In Connecticut, the application fee is $150 for an Electrical Contractor License and $90 for a Journeyperson License.

Requirements: In Connecticut, you need to complete a registered apprenticeship or at least four years of equivalent training and experience, then pass the exam to earn a Journeyperson License. To qualify for an Electrical Contractor License, you must first hold a Journeyperson License and meet the state’s exam requirements.

Application: Occupational Trade Contractor License Application or Occupational Trade Journeyperson License Application

Renewal: Licenses must be renewed annually on September 30th.

Renewal Cost: The renewal fee is $150 for licensed electrical contractors and $120 for Electrical Journeyman Licenses.

Changes: Name and address changes can be made online here.

Replacement: If your license card is lost or damaged, you can request a duplicate through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection’s Online Services portal.

Delaware

State Certification Authority: Division of Professional Regulation, Board of Electrical Examiners

License Cost: In Delaware, the application fee is $203 for a Master Electrician License, $105 for a Journeyperson Electrician License, and $99 for a Residential Electrician License.

Requirements: In Delaware, a Journeyperson License requires 8,000 hours of supervised experience or an apprenticeship and passing the exam. A Master Electrician License requires 6 years of experience (or 4 with training) plus the exam. A Residential Electrician License requires 4,000 hours of residential work or an apprenticeship and passing the exam.

Application: DelPros

Renewal: Every two years on June 30th.

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees are posted in DelPros at the time of renewal.

Changes: Change the name or address on your license here.

Replacement: Contact the board.

Florida

State Certification Authority: State Board of Electrical Examiners

License Cost: The total application cost in Florida includes a $263.25 fee paid to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and $123.75 paid directly to the exam vendor.

Requirements: Contractors must complete the initial application for a Certified or Registered license and submit it to the Board along with all the required documents and fees.

Application: Electrical Contractors’ Licensing Board Certified Electrical Contractor Exam Application

Renewal: Electrical Contractor licenses in Florida expire on August 31 of every even numbered year and must be renewed through the DBPR online system.

Renewal Cost: $150.50 for Certified Electrical Contractor.

Changes: You can change the name on your license or the address by creating an account on My Florida License.

Replacement: You can also replace your license via My Florida License.

Georgia

State Certification Authority: Georgia Board of Electrical Contractors

License Cost: The application fee is $30 for an Electrical Contractor License.

Requirements: Applicants must be at least 21 years old, document at least 4 years of primary experience in electrical work, submit 3 references (including one from a licensed electrical contractor), and pass the state exam with a score of 70% or higher. Learn more here.

Application: How-To Guide: Electrical Contractors

Renewal: Yearly

Renewal Cost: $100

Changes: If you need to update your license name or license details, you can email the Board of Electrical Contractors at Trades4@sos.ga.gov.

Replacement: Use the GOALS portal to request a replacement license card.

Hawaii

State Certification Authority: Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers

License Cost: The application fee is $40.00, the exam fee is $95.00, and the license fee depends on when in the 3 year cycle you apply: $225 if you apply in the first year, $150 in the second year, and $75 in the third year, since all licenses expire on the same renewal date.

Requirements: For a Journey Worker Electrician license in Hawaii, you must have at least 5 years of residential or commercial wiring experience, plus 240 hours of electrical coursework from a University of Hawaii Community College program. For a Journey Worker Industrial Electrician license in Hawaii, you must have at least 4 years of industrial electrical work experience, plus 200 hours of electrical coursework from a University of Hawaii Community College program.

Application: Application and exam license for Electricians and Plumbers‍

Renewal: All licenses must be renewed every three years by June 30 of the renewal year.

Renewal Cost: $225

Changes: Change of name and or address can be done via an MYPVL account . Or you can fill out the form here with a $10 fee.‍

Replacement: Print your license pocket ID and wall certificate online here with a $10 fee.

Idaho

State Certification Authority: Division of Building Safety (DBS)

License Cost: For a Journeyman Electrician License, the application fee is $55. For a Master Electrician License, the application fee is $65. For an Electrical Contractor License, the application fee is $125.

Requirements: To qualify for a Master Electrician License, you must hold an Idaho Journeyman license for at least 4 years and pass the state’s Master exam. To qualify for an Electrical Contractor License, you must employ a licensed Master Electrician as your Responsible Person and meet insurance and business registration requirements.

Application: Idaho Division of Building Safety- Electrical Forms & Applications

Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every 3 years. Learn more.

Renewal Cost: Journeyman and Master Electrician Licenses renew for $45, while an Electrical Contractor License renews for $100 per year.

Changes: To change your company’s name or address, login to the DOPL portal.

Replacement: A duplicate license card can be requested for $10.

Illinois

State Certification Authority: Illinois electrical licenses are issued from county to county.

License Cost: Cost varies by municipality.

Requirements: Examinations are administered by local municipalities in Illinois. Cost around $100 per exam. For more exam information, check here.

Application: Illinois Electrician Exam hub

Renewal: Differs by municipality.

Renewal Cost: Differs by municipality.

Changes: Must contact the local municipality.

Replacement: Must contact the local municipality.

Indiana

State Certification Authority: Indiana electrical licenses are issued from county to county.

License Cost: Cost varies by municipality.

Requirements: Differs by municipality.

Application: Differs by municipality.

Renewal: Differs by municipality.

Renewal Differs by municipality.

Changes: Must contact the local municipality.

Replacement: Must contact the local municipality.

Iowa

State Certification Authority: Department of Public Safety, Electrical Licensing, and Inspection

License Cost: Iowa offers licenses for Electrical Contractors, Residential Electrical Contractors, Class A and B Master Electricians, Residential Masters, Class A and B Journeyman Electricians, Residential Electricians, and Apprentice Electricians. The fee changes depending on the year and month; to learn more about costs for each license, review the fee schedule.

Requirements: For an Electrical Contractor License, you must employ or hold an active Master Electrician License, register as a contractor with Iowa Workforce Development, and provide proof of liability and unemployment insurance.

Application: Applications are submitted through the DIAL licensing portal.

Renewal: Every three years.

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees are the same as initial license fees and vary by license type and year. See the fee schedule for details.

Changes: Name and address changes can be submitted through the DIAL licensing portal.

Replacement: Replacement licenses can be requested through the DIAL licensing portal.

Kansas

State Certification Authority: Kansas electrical licenses are issued from county to county.

License Cost: Cost varies by municipality.

Requirements: Differs by municipality.

Application: Search via Prometric for individual county exam information

Renewal: Differs by municipality.

Renewal Cost: Differs by municipality.

Changes: Differs by municipality.

Replacement: Differs by municipality.

Kentucky

State Certification Authority: Kentucky Electrical Licensing

License Cost: In Kentucky, the application fee is $400 for an Electrical Contractor License, $200 for a Master Electrician License, and $100 for a Journeyman License.

Requirements: In Kentucky, an applicant for an Electrical Contractor License, Master Electrician License, or Journeyman License must pass the state licensing exam for that license type. For more exam information, check here.

Application: Electrical Contractors’ License Application

Renewal: All Kentucky electrical licenses are renewed every two years.

Renewal Cost: Same as application cost (Contractor $400, Master $200, Journeyman $100).

Changes: To update your name or address on a Kentucky electrical license, log into the Kentucky DHBC licensing portal and submit the change online.

Replacement: Reach out to the board for a replacement wallet card.

Louisiana

State Certification Authority: Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

License Cost: In Louisiana, Electrical Contractor licensing is handled statewide by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. However, certain cities, like New Orleans, also require an additional local license. In New Orleans, contractors must obtain a Class “A” Master Electrical License, which costs $125 per year

Requirements: Licensing requirements vary based on the city requirements.

Application: State Registration Application

Renewal: Contractors can renew their license for 1, 2, or 3 years through the online portal.

Renewal Cost: Dependent on how many years, minimum $100

Changes: Fill out this form to change your business name or address.

Replacement: Replacements or duplicate licenses are handled directly through the Contractor Portal.

Maine

State Certification Authority: Maine Electricians Examining Board

License Cost: License fee of $150 for Master Electricians and Journeyman Electricians.

Requirements: In Maine, to become a Journeyman Electrician, you generally need around 8,000 hours of supervised experience plus 576 hours of board-approved coursework. To become a Master Electrician, you must already hold a Journeyman License and meet additional exam and experience requirements set by the Electricians’ Examining Board.

Application: Electrician’s Examination Board Information, Contact, and Resources

Renewal: Every two years

Renewal Cost: $150

Changes: Update contact information here , like the name on your license or your address.

Replacement: Request that a copy of your license is emailed to you here.

Maryland

State Certification Authority: Maryland Department of Labor

License Cost: : The application fee is $18.50 for a Journeyman Electrician License and $25 for a Master Electrician License. The exam fee for both Master and Journeyman applicants is $65.00.

Requirements: Submit a pre-approval application, then take an exam issued by PSI.

Application: Maryland State Board of Examination Application

Renewal: Every two years

Renewal Cost: $18.50 for a Journeyman Electrician License and $31.50 for a Master Electrician License.

Changes: To change the name and or address information, you may contact the Department of Labor at no fee.

Replacement: N/A

Massachusetts

State Certification Authority: State Examiners of Electricians

License Cost: The exam and application cost is $226 for a Journeyman Electrician License and $276 for a Master Electrician License.

Requirements: Both Journeyman and Master Electrician Licenses require passing an exam. A Journeyman License also requires documented education and supervised work experience, while a Master License requires holding a Journeyman License plus additional qualifications.

Application: Application for Examination and the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin

Renewal: Electrical licenses are renewed every two years. The state sends renewal notices 60 to 90 days before the July 31 expiration date, and you must renew through the e-PLACE portal.

Renewal Cost: $78 for a Journeyman Electrician License and $117 for a Master Electrician License.

Changes: Updates to name or address can be submitted through the e-PLACE portal.

Replacement: Duplicate license requests are also processed through the e-PLACE portal.

Michigan

State Certification Authority: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

License Cost: The application fee is $40 for a Journeyman Electrician License, $50 for a Master Electrician License, and $300 for an Electrical Contractor License. Exam fees apply separately.

Requirements: Complete an application and meet the Bureau’s requirements work experience. Then pass a qualifying exam via PSI ($100).

Application: Complete this application for Journeyman, Master Electrician, Fire Alarm Specialty Technician or Sign Specialist Examination and Licensure.

Renewal: Electrical licenses in Michigan must be renewed before expiration date.

Renewal Cost: $40 for Journeyman, $50 for Master, and $300 for Electrical Contractor

Changes: Fill out License Name/Address Change & Duplicate License Request.

Replacement: Duplicate licenses cost $10. Fill out License Name/Address Change & Duplicate License Request.

Minnesota

State Certification Authority: Minnesota Board of Electricity

License Cost: There is a $50 exam fee. Learn more about the Electrical License Examination Guide and Application.

Requirements: A Journeyman Electrician License requires proof of sufficient work experience and passing the state exam. A Master Electrician License requires additional verified experience and passing the master exam.

Application: iMS License Management System

Renewal: A Journeyman License expires every two years on the anniversary month of issuance. A Master Electrician License expires on the last day of February in each odd numbered year.

Renewal Cost: $53 for a Journeyman License and $93 for a Master License.

Changes: For information on how to change the name on your license or your business address on file, please check here.

Replacement: If you need a replacement license, you need to show proof of identity to the state to get a new copy.

Mississippi

State Certification Authority: Mississippi State Board of Contractors.

License Cost: For a Commercial Electrical Contractor License, the application fee is $400 and the renewal fee is also $400. For a Residential Electrical Contractor License, the base application fee is $50, plus $100 for each trade classification you apply for (including electrical).

Requirements: Submit qualifying application, followed by a two-part state Electrical Contractor Exam ($240)

Application: MS State Board of Contractors Residential Application form or MS State Board of Contractors Commercial Application form.

Renewal: Annually

Renewal Cost: $400 for Commercial Electrical Contractors. For Residential Electrical Contractors, there is a $100 fee.

Changes: Name or address change form must be submitted directly to MSBOC with a $50 fee.

Replacement: There is a $50 fee for duplicate licenses for both residential and commercial contractors.

Missouri

State Certification Authority: Licensed at the local level, not by the state.

License Cost: $200

Requirements: Varies by city/county, but there is a statewide Electrical Contractors license you can take an exam to work anywhere in the state.

Application: Office of State-Wide Application Forms

Renewal: Every three years

Renewal Cost: Approximately $200, varies by local government.

Changes: You can check here for a change of address application OR here to change name information.

Replacement: There is a duplicate license fee of $10.

Montana

State Certification Authority: Montana State Electrical Board

License Cost: The application fee is $210 for an Electrical Contractor License and $190 for Journeyman and Master Electrician Licenses.

Requirements: Applicants must meet the required experience hours and pass the state exam for their license class. The exam fee is $85 for the Master Electrician exam and $75 for the Journeyman and Residential Electrician exams.

Application: License Application Forms

Renewal: Electrician licenses expire on July 15 of even numbered years.

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees are the same as the application fees.

Changes: To make changes to your license, you will need to contact the board.

Replacement: License holders can download or print duplicate license documents via the Board’s online services, as physical cards are no longer mailed.

Nebraska

State Certification Authority: State of Nebraska, State Electrical Division

License Cost: For the 2025–2026 license period, fees are $125 for Electrical Contractors, $125 for Masters, and $25 for Journeyman.

Requirements: For an Electrical Contractor License, applicants must have at least one year of experience as a licensed Journeyman, or a degree in electrical engineering plus experience acceptable to the board.

Application: Electrician Licensing Application

Renewal: Licenses expire on December 31st of even years.

Renewal Cost: Same as application fee.

Changes: You can fill out a credential change form here to have information on your license edited.

Replacement: There is a $10 fee to reissue your license with or without changes.

Nevada

State Certification Authority: Nevada State Contractors Board

License Cost: Contractors pay $300 for an application fee.

Requirements: Must submit an application form ($300) with experience, references, background disclosure, a financial statement, and verification from your bank. Then, you must pass a two-part exam issued by PSI ($140).

Application: Contractors License Applications

Renewal: License Renewals

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees are available by logging into the Nevada State Contractors Board online portal.

Changes: To change your business name, you must fill out an application form with a $250 fee. To change your address, fill out this form.

Replacement: N/A

New Hampshire

State Certification Authority: New Hampshire Electricians Examining Board

License Cost: The fee is $198 for Master Electricians and $110 for the Journeyman Electricians.

Requirements: Must meet the EEB requirements for work experience, education, and training, then pass an examination.

Application: Electrician’s Board Licensing Application

Renewal: Master and Journeyman licenses renew every two years.

Renewal Cost: $50 for Master and Journeyman

Changes: Request name and other contact changes here.

Replacement: Replacements cost $20, and you can fill out the application here.

New Jersey

State Certification Authority: New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors

License Cost: $100

Requirements: To apply for an Electrical Contractor license, you must show proof of five years of practical electrical experience. After the board approves your application, you’ll take the Trade and Business Law exam via PSI.

Application: Application for Examination and Forms

Renewal: Every three years

Renewal Cost: $100

Changes: Address changes can be made by making a MyLicenseOnline account.

Replacement: N/A

New Mexico

State Certification Authority: New Mexico Electrical Bureau

License Cost: For Electrical Contractors, license fees depend on classification. Journeyman Certificate Fee is $75.

Requirements: Journeyman applicants must meet the experience hours required for their classification and pass the state exam. Contractors must submit a Qualifying Party application, provide proof of experience, and also pass the exam.

Application: Applications for both Contractors and Journeyman licenses are available through the RLD Forms & Applications page.

Renewal: Every three years

Renewal Cost: $75-$200

Changes: Name or address changes can be updated through the RLD licensing portal.

Replacement: Duplicate licenses can also be requested through the RLD licensing portal.

New York

State Certification Authority: Licensed at the local level, not by the state.

License Cost: Cost varies by municipality.

Requirements: Differs by municipality.

Application: Differs by municipality.

Renewal: Differs by municipality.

Renewal Cost: Differs by municipality.

Changes: Differs by municipality.

Replacement: Differs by municipality.

North Carolina

State Certification Authority: State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors

License Cost: The exam application and exam fee is $125 for all classifications.

Requirements: Submit an application, complete an examination ($90) administered by PSI. Must meet the minimum bonding requirement and show required work experience

Application: New License Application

Renewal: Licenses expire one year after issuance; renewal must be done annually.

Renewal Cost: $100-$200

Changes: To change your contact information on your license, you can fill out this form (address changes, phone number, etc.)

Replacement: Replacements cost $15. You can fill out the form here.

North Dakota

State Certification Authority: North Dakota State Electrical Board

License Cost: The application fee is $25 for Journeyman licenses and $50 for Master licenses.

Requirements: Must fulfill experience requirements and pass a qualifying exam.

Application: Application for Electricians License

Renewal: In North Dakota, Master and Power Limited licenses renew annually on April 30. Journeyman licenses renew annually on March 31.

Renewal Cost: Journeyman licenses are $40 to renew, and Master and Power Limited licenses are $50 to renew.

Changes: Change personal information related to your license through the state Electrical Board here.

Replacement: N/A

Ohio

State Certification Authority: State of Ohio Department of Commerce

License Cost: The application fee is $25 per trade. A $25 licensing fee per trade is also required once approved.

Requirements: In Ohio, to qualify as an Electrical Contractor you must have at least 5 years of experience in the trade and pass the exam.

Application: License Qualification Process and Application

Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every year through the OCILB online system.

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees are posted by OCILB at the time of renewal.

Changes: Change the name or address on your license here.

Replacement: N/A

Oklahoma

State Certification Authority: Oklahoma Construction Industries Board

License Cost: The application for an Electrical Contractor carries a fee of $330 (which includes $300 for the license + $30 processing).

Requirements: Verify work experience, submit the application to the Board, and take an exam issued by PSI.

Application: Construction Industry Board Electrician Application Information

Renewal: Every 36 Months

Renewal Cost: $200

Changes: Change the name or address on your license here.

Replacement: N/A

Oregon

State Certification Authority: Construction Contractors Board

License Cost: $400

Requirements: Meet the Division’s requirement for work experience, complete and submit an application to the BCD, then pass a qualifying exam

Application: Contractor Business License Application

Renewal: Every two years

Renewal Cost: $400

Changes: You can change the name or address on your license here.

Replacement: A duplicate or reissued license can be requested through the CCB online portal.

Pennsylvania

State Certification Authority: No statewide licensing, Changes by municipality

License Cost: Cost varies by municipality.

Requirements: Differs by municipality.

Application: Differs by municipality.

Renewal: Differs by municipality.

Renewal Cost: Differs by municipality.

Changes: Differs by municipality.

Replacement: Differs by municipality.

Rhode Island

State Certification Authority: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training

License Cost: In Rhode Island, applying for an Electrical Contractor A license requires a $75 non-refundable application fee and, once approved, a two year license fee of $240.

Requirements: You must have at least 6 years of experience performing electrical work, including at least 2 years as a licensed journeyman, and you must pass the state exam.

Application: Electrician Application

Renewal: Every two years.

Renewal Cost: $240

Changes: You can change the address on your license here , free of charge.

Replacement: You can order a certificate of existence from the Department of State for $30 here.

South Carolina

State Certification Authority: South Carolina Contractor’s Licensing Board

License Cost: The application processing fee is $135 (non-refundable). After passing the exams, you must also submit a $220 license fee.

Requirements: You must have at least 1 year of residential electrical experience under a licensed contractor, documented by affidavits and proof such as W-2s, 1099s, or apprenticeship records. You must also pass both the Residential Electrical Contractor Exam and the Business Management and Law Exam.

Application: Apply online through the LLR Residential Builders Commission portal.

Renewal: Licenses are renewed every two years on June 30 of odd numbered years.

Renewal Cost: The renewal fee is $220.

Changes: You can change the name and address on your license via the Online Service Portal on the Licensing and Regulation website.

Replacement: You can print off a copy of your license via the Online Service Portal as well.

South Dakota

State Certification Authority: South Dakota State Electrical Commission

License Cost: The initial application fee is $60 for both Electrical Contractors and Journeyman Electricians. An additional $40 exam fee is required when scheduling the state exam.

Requirements: Applicants must meet the state’s experience requirements and pass the South Dakota electrical exam for their license type.

Application: All applications are done via the Online Portal System.

Renewal: Licenses expire on June 30 of even numbered years and are renewed biennially.

Renewal Cost: $50

Changes: To change the name or address on your license, you must contact the South Dakota State Electrical Commission.

Replacement: N/A

Tennessee

State Certification Authority: Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors

License Cost: For projects under $25,000, you must apply for a Limited Licensed Electrician (LLE) license with a $50 application fee. For projects $25,000 or more, you must hold a Contractor license with an Electrical (CE) classification with a $250 application fee.

Requirements: All contractors must submit an application, pass the TN Business & Law exam and Electrical Trade Exam administered by PSI Services LLC ($57). submit a work reference letter about their experience, provide proof of general liability and workers compensation insurance, and must register with the Tennessee Secretary of State. For projects $25,000+, you need a state contractor’s license with an electrical (CE) classification.

Application: Candidate Information Bulletin

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees are $50 for the Limited Licensed Electrician license and $200 for the Contractor license with an Electrical (CE) classification.

Changes: Updates to licensee name or address must be submitted through the Tennessee licensing portal.

Replacement: Duplicate licenses can be requested through the Tennessee licensing portal.

Texas

State Certification Authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations

License Cost: The application fee is $30 for a Journeyman Electrician License, $45 for a Master Electrician License, and $110 for an Electrical Contractor License.

Requirements: A Journeyman Electrician must document at least 7,000 hours of on-the-job training under a Master Electrician and pass the exam. A Master Electrician must have held a Journeyman License for at least two years, complete 12,000 hours of on-the-job training, and pass the state exam. Electrical Contractors must employ or be a Master Electrician, register their business with TDLR, and provide proof of the required insurance.

Application: Journeyman Electrician License Application Form , Master Electrician License Application Form , and Electrical Contractor License Application Form

Renewal: All Texas electrical licenses must be renewed annually through the TDLR portal.

Renewal Cost: Renewal fees match the application fees.

Changes: To change contact information (name, address, phone number, etc.), you can fill out this form . Duplicate forms cost $25.

Replacement: Replacements cost $25, and you can fill out applications here.

Utah

State Certification Authority: Utah Department of Commerce

License Cost: The application fee is $175 for a General Electrical Contractor.

Requirements: A Master Electrician must have at least 8,000 hours of experience as a licensed Journeyman and pass both the Law & Rule and Practical exams. A Residential Master must complete 4,000 hours as a licensed Residential Journeyman or meet alternate education and experience requirements, plus pass the exam. A Journeyman must complete a 4-year apprenticeship program (including 576 classroom hours) and 8,000 hours of supervised work, or 16,000 hours of verified experience, and pass both written and practical exams.

Application: Apply through the Utah DOPL Online Services portal.

Renewal: Licenses expire on November 30 of even numbered years.

Renewal Cost: $74

Changes: You can change the name on your license or your address by contacting The Department of Commerce Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

Replacement: Contact the board.

Vermont

State Certification Authority: Vermont State Electrical Licensing Board

License Cost: The application fee is $115 for a Journeyman Electrician License and $150 for a Master Electrician License.

Requirements: Complete required experience and hours, submit an application, and pass the exam issued by the International Code Council.

Application: Electrical Application and Instructions - All Classifications

Renewal: Every three years

Renewal Cost: $150

Changes: You can change your address by filling out an address correction request here, which costs $20.

Replacement: Replacements also cost $20 and can be requested at the same link here.

Virginia

State Certification Authority: Virginia Board for Contractors

License Cost: The Tradesman Exam & License Application form indicates a fee of $150 for Journeyman and Master licenses.

Requirements: Must submit the application to the board along with documents and fees ($130), pass a PSI issued examination ($125), and complete Board-approved continuing education courses.

Application: Tradesman Exam & License Application

Renewal: Every year

Renewal Cost: $150

Changes: You can change the name and address your license is issued under here.

Replacement: Contact the board.

Washington

State Certification Authority: Washington Department of Labor and Industries

License Cost: $382.10

Requirements: Must meet work and education requirements by submitting an application to L&I ($306.10), submit documented proof of the proper insurance and bonding. And take a qualifying exam ($45-$105, based on hours it takes to complete) issued by PSI.

Application: Apply for Electrician Contractor.

Renewal: Every two years.

Renewal Cost: $84-$230

Changes: Contact the board.

Replacement: Contact the board.

West Virginia

State Certification Authority: West Virginia State Fire Marshal

License Cost: $25 application review fee and $75 certification fee.

Requirements: Fulfill the required amount of work and schooling. Submit an exam application to the Office of the Fire Marshal, pass the exam based on chosen license classification, and submit a license application along with the appropriate license fee to the Office of the Fire Marshal.

Application: West Virginia State Fire Marshal Application Portal

Renewal: Yearly

Renewal Cost: $50

Changes: Must be submitted through the WV Fire Marshal Commission.

Replacement: N/A

Wisconsin

State Certification Authority: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services

License Cost: $200

Requirements: Complete required work experience and education, submit an application ($35) to the Department, pass a trades credentialing examination ($30).

Application: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services – Master Electrician Application

Renewal: Every four years.

Renewal Cost: $200

Changes: You can change account contact information via the Department of Safety and Professional Services Online Portal.

Replacement: Requires paying a $10 fee.

Wyoming

State Certification Authority: Wyoming Department of Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety

License Cost: $400

Requirements: Complete required education and experience, submit work verification form along with the application, then pass qualifying exam.

Application: Wyoming State Fire Marshal Public Portal

Renewal: Annually

Renewal Cost: $400

Changes: You can change your license contact information (address, phone number, etc.) via the Online License Renewal Portal.

Replacement: N/A

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