How to Become an Electrician

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The work spans wiring new construction, upgrading electrical panels, installing lighting and power systems, and troubleshooting electrical faults. Electricians must understand the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes. The trade offers multiple career paths including residential wireman, commercial electrician, industrial electrician, and low-voltage specialist. Many electricians eventually start their own contracting businesses. Licensure is required in most states, typically at the journeyman and master electrician levels. Electricians are among the highest-paid skilled trades workers. Growing demand for renewable energy installations, EV charging infrastructure, and smart home technology continues to expand opportunities in this field.

Two Paths to This Career

Trade School Path

Typical duration: 9-24 months

Electrical trade school programs teach electrical theory, circuit design, wiring methods, NEC code compliance, and safety practices. Students work with residential and commercial electrical systems in hands-on lab environments. Programs typically cover conduit bending, panel installation, motor controls, and basic PLC programming. Graduates are prepared for entry-level electrical work and have a strong foundation for pursuing journeyman licensure through supervised field experience.

Apprenticeship Path

Typical duration: 4-5 years

Electrical apprenticeships are one of the most established paths in the trades, combining 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576+ hours of related classroom instruction over 4-5 years. Apprentices work alongside journeyman electricians on real projects while attending classes on electrical theory, code, and safety. Programs are offered through the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), IEC (Independent Electrical Contractors), and ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors). Completion qualifies apprentices to sit for journeyman licensure exams.

Career Progression & Earnings

Typical earning trajectory for an electrician. Wages vary by location, employer, and experience.

Apprentice

Entry level — learning on the job

$15.00/hr

~$31,200/yr

Journeyman

Certified — working independently

$29.61/hr

~$61,589/yr

Master / Senior

Experienced — may supervise others

$42.00/hr

~$87,360/yr

Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, May 2023. Annual estimates based on 2,080 hours/year.

School vs. Apprenticeship

Two paths to becoming an Electrician. Here's how they compare.

Factor	Trade School	Apprenticeship
Cost	Tuition varies by school	$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration	9-24 months	4-5 years
Earnings During Training	No (student)	Yes ($15.00/hr starting)
Credential	Certificate or Associate's	Journeyman certification
Job Placement	Varies by school	Often hired by training sponsor

Source: BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, May 2023

Job Outlook

Electrician employment is projected to grow significantly, driven by construction activity, renewable energy expansion, and EV infrastructure buildout. The increasing electrification of buildings and transportation systems creates strong long-term demand. Licensed electricians with experience in solar, battery storage, or industrial controls are especially sought after.