
These are the general requirements for becoming an electrical contractor in the state of Pennsylvania:
- Have a valid journeyman electrician license;
- Have worked as a journeyman electrician for at least two years;
- Have general liability insurance and workers compensation;
- Pass the electrical contractor examination.
What licenses do you need to be an electrician in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires all electricians to have a license to perform commercial and residential electrical work. What are the Different Types of Electrical Licenses in Pennsylvania? The different types of electrical licenses in Pennsylvania are electrician apprentice license, journeyman electrician, and electrical contractor.
How many electricians work in Pennsylvania?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 729,600 electricians nationwide and 19,390 work in Pennsylvania. The national number is predicted to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030. Many contractors nationwide are trying to find skilled tradesmen.
Do I need a license to do electrical work at home?
Nothing...shall be construed to require that a person obtain a license or a certified electrician in order to do electrical work at his or her residence...unless the electrical work is on the construction of a new building intended for rent, sale, or lease.
Does Pennsylvania offer journeyman electrical licensing?
Many Pennsylvania cities, such as Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, do not offer journeyman electrical licensing. However, most electrical contractors expect you to complete an apprenticeship prior to hiring you for a full-time journeyman electrician position.
How old do you have to be to be an electrician in Pennsylvania?
What is the job of an electrical contractor in Pennsylvania?
What is an electrician apprentice?
What is the purpose of the Pennsylvania licensing system?
Does Pennsylvania require a license to work as an electrician?
Does Pennsylvania have reciprocity agreements with other states?
See 1 more

Can a handyman do electrical work in Pennsylvania?
What you cannot do as a handyman in Pennsylvania includes constructing a new home and doing any jobs that require a license that is relevant to your area. Examples could include plumbing, landscaping, or electrical work.
Does Pennsylvania require low voltage license?
You need an Electrical Contractor license to do electrical work including low voltage wiring in the city of Philadelphia. You must have at least four years employment doing electrical work for a company licensed through a local or state jurisdiction to qualify.
Can you become a qualified electrician without an apprenticeship?
A college course can give you some of the technical knowledge and practical skills you'll need to become an electrician. You'll still need practical experience in the workplace to become fully qualified. Doing a course may help you get an apprenticeship or trainee position.
Does Pennsylvania license electricians?
Some of Pennsylvania's 2,562 municipalities have established local licensure or certification requirements for contractors or construction trades people. Typically, these requirements pertain to home improvement contractors, electrical contractors (or electricians), and plumbing contractors (or plumbers).
What state has the easiest electrical license?
Starting with the easiest, there are no statewide low-voltage licensing requirements in Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin. While Colorado, Indiana, Missouri and Pennsylvania have no statewide requirements, localities in these states do have them.
How much do electricians make near Pennsylvania?
The average Union Electrician salary in Pennsylvania is $66,392 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $58,887 and $75,002.
How quickly can you train as an electrician?
Generally, apprenticeships take three years to complete and will involve one day a week at college and four days within a related job position. However, many colleges offer two-year fast-track options for advanced students, as well as part-time study, which could take much longer.
Do electricians have to be registered?
Any reference to Part P of the Building Regulations is for company registration to comply with legislation (in England and Wales). It is not a general requirement for individually-qualified electricians.
What qualifications do I need to rewire a house?
So, your options for electrical rewiring regarding building regulations must always include sign-off from either: a registered competent person,(a qualified electrician), or. a registered third party, or. a building control inspector.
How do I become an electrician in PA?
How to Become an Electrician in PennsylvaniaJoin an Apprenticeship Program or Trade School (OR work the Required Hours)Pass the Exam to Become a Journeyman Electrician.Pass the Exam to Become a Master Electrician and/or Contractor.
What is a registered electrician?
Registered Electricians are registered to carry out Domestic work under Part P and also Commercial. They are registered with one of 5 main organisations:- NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, Stroma and ECA. The most predominent and trusted one is NICEIC which are used by all government departments.
How do I get my master electrician license in PA?
To qualify, you must have a minimum of four years employment doing electrical work for a company licensed through a local or state jurisdiction. Completion of two years of education in the electrical field is equal to one year practical experience. Education can substitute for up to two years of practical experience.
What is a Class C license in PA?
CLASS C (minimum age 16): A Class C driver's license will be issued to persons 16 years of age or older, who have demonstrated their qualifications to operate any vehicles, except those requiring a Class M qualification, and who do not meet the definitions of Class A or Class B.
What is a limited license in PA?
An Occupational Limited License (PDF), or OLL, is a Class C (Non-commercial Driver's License) or Motorcycle Limited Driver's License issued to a driver whose Pennsylvania driving privilege has been, or will be, suspended.
Is there a bread and butter license in PA?
An Occupational Limited License (OLL), also commonly referred to as a Bread and Butter license, is a driver's license issued to a driver whose Pennsylvania driving privilege has been, or will be, suspended.
What is a probationary license in PA?
A Probationary License (PL) is a Class C (Non-commercial) Limited Driver's License issued only once to an individual whose Pennsylvania driving privilege has been suspended or revoked for five or more years.
Electrician Licensing Info by State - Lookup Requirements and get ...
IDAHO Idaho Division of Building Safety - Electrical Board 1090 E. Watertower St. Suite 150 Meridian, ID 83642 Ph 208-332-7137 >> Electrical Exams Information Bulletin >> Forms and Applications >> Frequently Asked Questions - Licenses >> License Search >> Citizen Complaint Form (pdf) ILLINOIS *
What are the Different Types of Electrical Licenses in Pennsylvania?
The different types of electrical licenses in Pennsylvania are electrician apprentice license, journeyman electrician, and electrical contractor.
How long does it take to become an electrician in Pennsylvania?
Complete an application for an electrician apprentice license. Then, you will work as an apprentice for a minimum of four years. After your apprenticeship, take a journeyman examination and apply for a journeyman license.
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Electrician License in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania licenses generally expire a year after they are issued. Renewal fees depend on the requirements of the local licensing boards.
What is Journeyman electrician?
alter, repair, and install any equipment that uses electrical energy. They supervise the work of electrician apprentices. Applicants for the journeyman electrician license must:
Why do people hire electricians?
Instead of building new homes, many homeowners opt to remodel their existing homes. They hire electricians to install new lighting fixtures and rewire their homes. Power grid lines are vulnerable to cyber attacks. Companies count on electricians to reconfigure the grid lines to prevent cybersecurity threats.
What is Pennsylvania apprenticeship?
Pennsylvania apprenticeship programs provide training, electrical work experience, and the opportunity to earn a salary. Apprenticeship programs are sponsored by utility companies, government agencies, and electrician unions. Program costs depend on the guidelines of each program.
Why do companies develop electrical tools?
Technology companies develop electrical tools to decrease the number of on-the-job injuries for electricians. Learn about the latest electrical tools and technology by attending
How to become an electrician in Pennsylvania?
To be an electrician in Pennsylvania you’ll need to comply with the state’s Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act to legally perform electrical services within PA. The Attorney General’s Office can register you and enforce these requirements.
What happens if you don't register an electrician in Pennsylvania?
If you don’t do this you can face a $1,000 fine among other penalties. This registration requirement is mandatory for those performing any electrical job within PA. Also keep in mind that Pennsylvania has 2,562 municipalities in total and many require electrician to meet their requirements on a local level.
How much does it cost to get a PA certification?
Sign and date the certification packet and include a nonrefundable $50 fee, check or money order, before you mail it out to the PA Attorney General:
What state is the best for electricians?
If you are planning an electrician career in the state of Pennsylvania you should know which areas will offer you the most work. The population centers with the highest overall electricity consumption are your best bet. Since PA is a really big state you’ll have many options available to you.
Does the state regulate electrical trade?
Since the state more closely regulates the electrical trade on a local level you will need to check with the authorities in your area regarding any test requirement. Until then you should simply focus on the following:
Does PA require a license?
While the state doesn’t actually have a licensure program or certification requirements, PA still requires you to register and maintain a minimum of insurance coverage as well as utilize legal contracts which comply with specific consumer protection requirements.
Does Pennsylvania have a low population density?
Remember that much of Pennsylvania has a low population density which is where you are likely to find less work. The resident population in the rural parts of the state is minimal and the people also tend to have less disposable income for electrical projects.
How to Become an Electrician in Pennsylvania- Overview
You may already know that finding out how to become an electrician in Pennsylvania doesn’t have a simple answer.
Key Steps to Get an Electrical License in Pennsylvania
Complete apprenticeship, trade school/community college, or work requirements.
Step 1. Fulfill Apprenticeship, Trade School, or Work Requirements
We know it can be daunting to navigate the requirements in Pennsylvania to become an electrician. But, we spell it out as simply as possible so you can be on your way to a rewarding career.
Step 2. Pass the Exam to Become a Journeyman Electrician in Pennsylvania
Whether you need a license to work as a journeyman electrician in Pennsylvania depends on where you’re planning to work.
The Takeaway
Learning how to become an electrician in Pennsylvania doesn’t have a clear-cut answer. Since there’s no state-wide license for electricians, each city or county has its own licensing and requirements.
How to become an electrician in Pennsylvania?
GAIN NECESSARY EXPERIENCE: There are three common paths to acquiring the practical experience needed to become an electrician in Pennsylvania: Enter into an apprenticeship program to gain three to five years of experience and earn between 750 and 900 hours of classroom education , ...
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Pennsylvania?
Tuition at some Pennsylvania community colleges costs about $16,800 per year for in-state students, plus an additional $1,100 for books and materials.
How long is a Journeyman electrician license valid?
Your journeyman license remains valid for one year , and you must renew it each year by contacting the Allentown government offices.
How long does a Pittsburg electrician license last?
Upon approval, you must pay your initial licensing fee. Your license remains valid for one year and renewal requires the same application, along with providing documents of your experience.
What is a trade license?
A trade license provides proof of your experience and skill. Only licensed electricians can: work independently as an electrical contractor, operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance and bonding, pull electrical permits, pass inspections, and bid on city projects.
How long do you have to be under supervision to be an electrician?
Work under the direct supervision of a licensed electrician for at least 10 years.
How many hours of schooling do you need to be an apprentice?
Enter into an apprenticeship program to gain three to five years of experience and earn between 750 and 900 hours of classroom education, depending on local government requirements.
Who can apply for electrical license?
Individuals who perform electrical work can apply for this license.
How many years of electrical schooling is required?
Completion of two years of education in the electrical field is equal to one year practical experience. Education can substitute for up to two years of practical experience.
How many hours of coursework is required for NFPA 70?
You must provide proof of completion for at least eight hours of coursework in the current or later edition of NFPA 70. The exam provider must be approved by the PA Department of Labor and Industry.
Do you have to be current on Philadelphia taxes?
You must be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes.
Replacing an Existing Light Fixture
If you’re comfortable working with electricity, you may be able to wire a new light yourself. This is a more advanced task, so read all instructions carefully and take your time! Hiring a professional electrician is always best if you’re not comfortable doing the work yourself.
Replacing an Existing Light Fixture with a Ceiling Fan
You can also swap out a light fixture for a ceiling fan. This job requires minimal tools and can be completed in just a few hours. Be sure to turn off the power at the breaker before starting any work!
Replacing an Existing Outlet
You can replace an existing electrical receptacle outlet with a new one without a license. You’ll need a few basic tools to complete the job. The most important thing is ensuring that the power is turned off before starting any work. Wiring an outlet can be tricky for a novice.
Replacing an Existing Light Switch
Another basic electrical task that homeowners can do without a license is changing a light switch. Again, this job should only be attempted by those comfortable working with electricity – if you’re unsure of what you’re doing, it’s best to call an electrician!
Replacing an Existing Light Switch with a Dimmer
You can also swap out a standard light switch with a dimmer switch. The process is the same. To install a dimmer switch, you’ll need to know how to wire it correctly.
Replacing a Fuse Inside a Fuse Box
If you have an older home, then you may need to replace fuses from time to time. Use the correct fuse size and always turn off the power before working inside a fuse box.
Replacing a Circuit Breaker Inside an Electrical Panel
If you have a bad breaker, you can replace it without a license. However, I don’t recommend this because a bad breaker can signify something more serious requiring troubleshooting by a Master Electrician. Be sure to turn off the power at the main breaker and use the correct breaker size for your appliance.
How many municipalities in Pennsylvania have licensure?
Some of Pennsylvania’s 2,562 municipalities have established local licensure or certification requirements for contractors or construction trades people. Typically, these requirements pertain to home improvement contractors, electrical contractors (or electricians), and plumbing contractors (or plumbers). Since the Commonwealth has no jurisdiction in this matter, the Department maintains no records concerning municipalities that have established licensure or certification requirements. This information can only be obtained by contacting the municipality where construction work will occur.
What is the number to call for asbestos removal in Pennsylvania?
If you have questions about asbestos or lead certification, please call 717-772-3396, email [email protected], or click on one of the following links for web-based information:
What is the Pennsylvania Manufactured Housing Improvement Act?
The Pennsylvania Manufactured Housing Improvement Act (Act 158 of 2004) requires that all manufactured homes installed in the Commonwealth be subject to certain provisions of the law and regulations that are intended to assure proper installation of every manufactured home.
Does Pennsylvania require a construction license?
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania currently has no licensure or certification requirements for most construction contractors (or their employees). Please note the following regarding state and local requirements pertaining to certain contractors (and their employees).
Is it hard to find a good electrician?
Along with plumb ers, a good electrician—especially one who has time to take on contract work for a do-it-yourself renovator—can be difficult to find.
Do you hire a professional to do a home remodel?
Even if you love doing your own home remodel work, there are times when you will want to hire professionals . After all, the pros do this work every day. Jobs that require a steep learning curve for you are second nature to them.
Can you do it yourself with electrical service panels?
For example, many do-it-yourselfers are put off by the idea of probing in the electrical service panel and installing new circuits. Contact with the lugs within the service panel is a very serious business, but service panel work is only one aspect of electrical work. The heavy lifting of running new circuits can be done safely by do-it-yourselfers. If they so choose, they can hire an electrician for that last job of connecting to the service panel.
Is it legal to do your own electrical work?
While doing your own electrical work is often legal and can be safe, if performed carefully, one major concern surrounds ensuring DIY electrical work is up to code: Amateurs may complete perfectly functional electrical projects that may not meet code, and thus may cause issues if and when it's time to have the house inspected in order to sell it.
Is electrical work dangerous?
Is electrical work safe? With proper precautions, electrical work is not dangerous. Complacency in conjunction with electricity is dangerous, though.
Is DIY Electrical Work Legal?
The legality of do-it-yourself electrical work varies from state to state and from one municipality to another. Always call your local permit office for the answer that pertains to you.
How old do you have to be to be an electrician in Pennsylvania?
Journeyman electricians in the state must meet the following requirements: Be at least 18 years old.
What is the job of an electrical contractor in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania Electrical Contractors. Electrical contractors in the state of Pennsylvania are responsible for supervising both apprentices and journeyman electricians. These are the general requirements for becoming an electrical contractor in the state of Pennsylvania: Have a valid journeyman electrician license; ...
What is an electrician apprentice?
While working as an apprentice, aspiring electricians move their way from observing to performing small tasks. Eventually, they are able to perform tasks by themselves, under the guidance of their supervisor. The following requirements must be met to become an electrical apprentice in the state of Pennsylvania:
What is the purpose of the Pennsylvania licensing system?
Utilize Pennsylvania’s Licensing System to verify the licensure of a person (s), facility, disciplinary, or provider.
Does Pennsylvania require a license to work as an electrician?
Since Pennsylvania requires no state license to perform electrical work, counties and cities have their own licensure and certification processes. Aspiring electricians must consult with their local building department in order to satisfy licensing and registration.
Does Pennsylvania have reciprocity agreements with other states?
Pennsylvania currently offers no reciprocity agreements with any other states. However, certain municipalities offer reciprocity with other towns or states. Check with your local government to see what reciprocity agreements it honors for electricians in your area.
