How long does it take to become an electrician?

4–5 years through an IBEW apprenticeship (earn wages throughout). Trade school alone (12 months) qualifies you for entry-level helper roles but not independent work — you still need apprenticeship hours for a journeyman license.

Do electricians need a license in every state?

Yes. All 50 states require a Journeyman Electrician license for independent electrical work. Most also require a Master Electrician license to pull permits or run a contracting business.

Is electrician the highest-paying trade?

Among welding, HVAC, and electrician: yes. Electricians have the highest median salary at $61,590 (BLS 2023) and fastest job growth at +11% through 2032.

How do I apply for an IBEW apprenticeship?

Contact your local IBEW chapter at ibew.org. Applications open periodically. Requirements: 18+, HS diploma or GED, algebra competency test, drug screen, and physical exam.

How to Become an Electrician in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming an electrician typically takes 4–5 years through an IBEW apprenticeship — the industry gold standard. Trade school can accelerate your entry into the apprenticeship. Median pay is $61,590, with master electricians and contractors earning $100,000+.

Steps to Become an Electrician

Finish high school or get your GED (math required)

Electrician apprenticeship programs require algebra competency. Most programs test math during the application process. Take algebra and physics in high school if possible.

Choose apprenticeship or trade school

IBEW apprenticeship is the preferred path — free, earn wages, graduate with a union card. Trade school (12 months) can prepare you for the apprenticeship entrance exam or get you an entry-level helper role faster.

Apply for an IBEW apprenticeship or enroll in trade school

IBEW apprenticeship applications open periodically. Requirements: 18+, HS diploma/GED, algebra test, drug test, physical. Contact your local IBEW chapter at ibew.org.

Complete apprenticeship training (4–5 years)

Apprentices work full-time under a journeyman electrician while attending classes. Earn 30–50% of journeyman wages starting (increases each year). Cover NEC code, wiring, conduit, service panels, and electrical theory.

Pass your state Journeyman Electrician exam

Every state requires a Journeyman Electrician license for independent work. Exams test NEC code knowledge and electrical theory. After passing, you can work independently under a Master Electrician.

Work toward Master Electrician license

After 2+ years as a journeyman, you can apply for a Master Electrician license — required to pull permits and run your own electrical contracting business. Significant pay increase.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship

Factor	Trade School	Apprenticeship
Time to journeyman	1 yr trade school + 4 yr apprenticeship	4–5 years direct
Upfront cost	$0–$15K	$0 (earn while training)
Pay during training	None (school phase)	$18–$30/hr (increases annually)
Union card	Not included	IBEW membership on graduation
License pathway	Need additional apprenticeship hours	Direct path to journeyman exam

Key Certifications

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Journeyman Electrician License(State Electrical Board)

Required in all 50 states for independent electrical work. Requirements vary by state.

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Master Electrician License(State Electrical Board)

Required to pull permits and run an electrical contracting business. Typically requires 2+ years as journeyman.

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OSHA 10/30 (Construction)(Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

Safety certification required by many contractors and job sites. OSHA 30 is preferred for foreman roles.

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NABCEP PV Installation Professional(North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners)

Solar/PV credential for electricians expanding into renewable energy installation.

Electrician Salary in 2025

BLS reports median annual wages for electricians at $61,590 (May 2023) — the highest of the three trades we cover. The top 10% earn $103,000+. Union master electricians in high-cost states can earn $100,000–$150,000+.