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PerplexityBenefits of a Massachusetts electrician license
Earning potential rises significantly with a license—Master Electricians can command premium salaries or launch their own businesses, while Journeymen outpace unlicensed workers in wages. The license also enhances your professional reputation, showcasing your expertise in safety and electrical standards to employers and clients. With a reciprocity agreement with New Hampshire, it offers flexibility to work across state lines. In essence, it’s a valuable credential for a stable, respected, and lucrative career in Massachusetts.
Job growth for electricians in Massachusetts
For Massachusetts specifically, the most recent long-term occupational projections available from Projections Central (covering 2020–2030, as newer state-specific data up to 2025 isn’t fully published yet) indicate the following:
- Projected Growth (2020–2030): Employment of electricians in Massachusetts is expected to grow by approximately 10.1% over this decade, outpacing the national average.
- Annual Job Openings: This growth, combined with replacements for retirees and those exiting the field, translates to an estimated 620 job openings per year on average through 2030.
- Context: Massachusetts’ growth is driven by booming sectors like commercial construction, renewable energy initiatives (e.g., solar and wind projects), and infrastructure upgrades in urban areas like Boston. The state’s emphasis on energy efficiency and green building codes further boosts demand for skilled electricians.
Job growth for electricians across the United States
Nationally, the BLS provides the most authoritative projections, with the latest detailed outlook covering 2023–2033 (released in 2024):
- Projected Growth (2023–2033): The BLS estimates a 6.1% growth rate for electrician jobs nationwide over this decade, slightly above the average for all occupations (about 3–4%).
- Employment Numbers: In 2023, there were approximately 683,000 electricians employed in the U.S. By 2033, this is projected to increase to around 725,000, adding roughly 42,000 new jobs.
- Annual Job Openings: Factoring in growth and replacements (retirements, career changes), the BLS projects about 73,500 openings per year on average through 2033.
- Context: National growth is propelled by increasing needs for electrical work in renewable energy (solar, wind), electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and ongoing construction, though tempered by automation and economic variability.
2026 Industry Update: Emerging Trends and Best Practices
In 2026, the electrical industry in Massachusetts continues to accelerate, fueled by the state’s aggressive clean energy goals and rapid adoption of new technologies. The Board of State Examiners of Electricians has rolled out preparations for the 2026–2028 code cycle, with continuing education providers updating programs to align with anticipated Massachusetts amendments to the 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC). Key shifts include expanded focus on electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, advanced energy management systems, and smarter integration of renewables like high-efficiency bifacial solar panels and battery storage solutions. Demand for skilled electricians remains strong, with national projections showing 9% growth through 2034 and Massachusetts seeing sustained needs in solar installations, smart home systems, and grid modernization to meet greenhouse gas reduction targets.
Comparison Table:
Looking ahead to the rest of 2026 and into 2027, electricians who specialize in these high-growth areas will gain a competitive edge. Pursue additional certifications in EV charger installations, solar-plus-storage systems, or smart building technologies to capture new opportunities. Stay proactive by completing your code update training early in the 2026–2028 cycle and leveraging digital tools for project management and compliance tracking. Adapting to these advancements not only ensures regulatory compliance but also positions you for higher-paying roles in a market increasingly driven by sustainability and innovation.
The different electrician licenses in Massachusetts
Massachusetts’ electrician licensing system is regulated statewide by the Board of State Examiners of Electricians, ensuring uniform standards across the Commonwealth. Unlike some states with local oversight, Massachusetts issues licenses for journeyman, master, and contractor roles through a centralized process, each tied to specific education, experience, and exam requirements. These licenses cater to distinct career stages, from hands-on technical work to running an electrical business. Here’s a breakdown of the main electrician licenses available in Massachusetts and what they entail.
| License Type | Key Requirements | Scope of Work | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journeyman Electrician | 8,000 hours (4 years) experience, 600 hours education, pass exam | Installs/repairs under supervision | $30.50 |
| Master Electrician | 1 year as journeyman, 150 hours education, pass exam | Plans, installs, supervises all voltages | $40.00 |
| Systems Technician | 4,000 hours (2 years) experience, 300 hours education, pass exam | Low-voltage systems (fire alarms, security) | $28.75 |
| Systems Contractor | 1 year as technician, 75 hours education, pass exam | Runs low-voltage business, hires others | $65,000 (annual avg.) |
- Journeyman Electrician: A foundational license requiring 8,000 hours of supervised work (about four years) and 600 hours of approved education. Journeymen pass a two-part exam to install and repair electrical systems under a master’s oversight, making it a key step for hands-on careers.
- Master Electrician: The top-tier license for independent work, requiring at least one year as a journeyman, 150 additional education hours, and a two-part exam (trade and business/law). Masters can design, install, and supervise projects across all voltage levels and employ apprentices.
- Systems Technician: Focused on low-voltage systems (e.g., fire alarms, security), this license needs 4,000 hours of experience (two years) and 300 hours of education, plus an exam. It’s ideal for specialized technical roles.
- Systems Contractor: A business-oriented license for low-voltage work, requiring one year as a systems technician, 75 hours of education, and an exam. Contractors can operate a business and hire technicians for projects like telecom or alarm systems.
Massachusetts doesn’t offer a standalone “maintenance electrician” license—maintenance tasks fall under journeyman or technician scopes. All licenses require exams administered by PSI, and reciprocity is available only with New Hampshire. This structured system supports career progression from apprentice to business owner, tailored to Massachusetts’ rigorous standards.
Key requirements for each license level
Massachusetts’ electrician licenses have clear, state-mandated requirements enforced by the Board of State Examiners of Electricians. Whether you’re starting as an apprentice or aiming to lead a company, here’s what you need to qualify for each level.
| License Type | Key Requirements |
|---|---|
| Journeyman Electrician | 8,000 hours (4 years) experience, 600 hours education, pass exam |
| Master Electrician | 1 year as journeyman, 150 hours education, pass exam |
| Systems Technician | 4,000 hours (2 years) experience, 300 hours education, pass exam |
| Systems Contractor | 1 year as technician, 75 hours education, pass exam |
- Journeyman Electrician: Requires 8,000 hours of practical experience (typically via apprenticeship) and 600 hours of Board-approved education, followed by a journeyman exam (70% passing score).
- Master Electrician: Builds on journeyman status with at least one year of licensed experience, 150 hours of master-level education, and a two-part exam covering trade skills and business/law.
- Systems Technician: Needs 4,000 hours of supervised low-voltage work and 300 hours of specialized education, plus a technician exam focused on systems like alarms and telecom.
- Systems Contractor: Requires one year as a licensed systems technician, 75 additional education hours, and an exam to qualify for running a low-voltage business.
All applicants must submit experience documentation (signed by a supervising licensee) and pass PSI-administered exams. Education must be from Board-approved programs, and work experience is creditable within 20 years of application. This progression ensures electricians meet Massachusetts’ high safety and competency standards.
How to get an electrician license in Massachusetts
The application process for an electrician license in Massachusetts is streamlined through the Board of State Examiners of Electricians, which oversees all licenses—Journeyman, Master, Systems Technician, and Systems Contractor—under a uniform statewide system. Unlike states with local variations, Massachusetts requires all applicants to meet standardized education, experience, and exam criteria, with applications processed through PSI, the Board’s testing vendor. Here’s a breakdown of the process for the primary license types:
State-level journeyman electrician license
This license is the entry point for performing electrical work independently under supervision, required for anyone installing, repairing, or maintaining electrical systems for heat, light, or power in Massachusetts.
Steps:
- Complete Education and Experience: Accumulate 8,000 hours (about 4 years) of supervised electrical work experience through an apprenticeship or equivalent, plus 600 hours of Board-approved classroom education covering the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Massachusetts amendments.
- Submit Application: Apply through PSI with a completed application (available at Mass.gov), including notarized work experience forms signed by a supervising licensee, proof of education, and a $226 fee ($60 processing, $80 Part I exam, $55 Part II exam, $31 license fee).
- Pass the Exam: Schedule and pass the two-part Journeyman exam via PSI (70% passing score): Part I (70 questions, 3 hours) covers theory and NEC; Part II (30 questions, 1 hour) tests applied skills. Exams are open-book, allowing NEC and Massachusetts amendments.
- Receive License: Upon passing, pay the $104 license fee at the test center (e.g., Auburn, Boston, or Springfield) to receive your license immediately. Renew every 3 years with 21 hours of continuing education (15 on Massachusetts Electrical Code).
State-level master electrician license
This license is required to independently plan, supervise, and perform electrical work or run a contracting business, building on journeyman credentials.
Steps:
- Meet Prerequisites: Hold a Journeyman license for at least 1 year with active experience, and complete an additional 150 hours of Board-approved master-level education.
- Submit Application: File with PSI, including proof of journeyman experience, education certificates, and a $276 fee ($60 processing, $80 Part I exam, $55 Part II exam, $81 license fee).
- Pass the Exam: Pass the two-part Master exam (70% passing score): Part I (80 questions, 4 hours) covers advanced electrical theory and NEC; Part II (50 questions, 2 hours) tests business and law knowledge. Open-book with approved references.
- Receive License: Pay the $155 license fee post-exam to get your license. Renew triennially with 21 hours of continuing education.
Additional license types
- Systems Technician: For low-voltage work (e.g., alarms), requires 4,000 hours (2 years) experience and 300 hours of education, plus a two-part exam ($226 fee). Scope is limited to systems like fire alarms or security.
- Systems Contractor: For running a low-voltage business, needs 1 year as a technician and 75 hours of education, plus a one-part exam ($276 fee). Allows hiring technicians.
All applications require a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check. Reciprocity is available only with New Hampshire via the ePLACE portal. Processing takes 30–90 days, and exams are scheduled at PSI centers statewide. Check Mass.gov for forms and updates.
- Journeyman Electrician: For installing, repairing, or maintaining electrical systems under supervision.
- Master Electrician: For planning, supervising, and performing electrical work independently or running a business.
- Systems Technician: For low-voltage systems (e.g., fire alarms, security).
- Systems Contractor: For operating a low-voltage business.
- Choose based on your career goals—Journeyman and Master apply to general electrical work; Systems licenses focus on specialized low-voltage tasks.
- Experience and Education:
- Journeyman: 8,000 hours (4 years) of supervised experience and 600 hours of Board-approved education.
- Master: 1 year as a licensed journeyman and 150 additional hours of education.
- Systems Technician: 4,000 hours (2 years) of low-voltage experience and 300 hours of education.
- Systems Contractor: 1 year as a licensed systems technician and 75 additional hours of education.
- Documentation: Provide notarized affidavits from a supervising licensee (Master Electrician or Contractor) verifying experience, plus transcripts from approved schools.
- Insurance: Not required for licensing but mandatory for business operation—e.g., general liability ($250,000 minimum recommended) and workers’ compensation if employing others.
- All applicants must complete Board-approved courses (e.g., NEC, Massachusetts Electrical Code amendments) before applying—600 hours for Journeyman, 150 more for Master, 300 for Systems Technician, 75 more for Systems Contractor.
- Education providers listed at Mass.gov.
Download forms from Mass.gov or apply via PSI:
- Journeyman Application: $226 total ($60 processing, $80 Part I exam, $55 Part II exam, $31 license fee).
- Master Application: $276 total ($60 processing, $80 Part I exam, $55 Part II exam, $81 license fee).
- Systems Technician: $226 total (similar breakdown).
- Systems Contractor: $276 total (similar breakdown).
Include:
- Completed application form.
- Notarized experience affidavits.
- Education transcripts.
- Copy of valid ID (e.g., driver’s license).
- Payment (credit card or check via PSI).
Submit online or mail to: PSI Services LLC 3210 E Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89121 (or local Massachusetts PSI test centers).
- Journeyman Exam: Two parts—Part I: 70 questions, 3 hours, theory/NEC; Part II: 30 questions, 1 hour, applied skills. Open-book, 70% to pass. Cost included in $226 fee.
- Master Exam: Two parts—Part I: 80 questions, 4 hours, advanced theory/NEC; Part II: 50 questions, 2 hours, business/law. Open-book, 70% to pass. Cost included in $276 fee.
- Systems Technician Exam: Two parts—similar to Journeyman but low-voltage focused. Cost included in $226 fee.
- Systems Contractor Exam: One part—50 questions, 2 hours, business/law for low-voltage. Cost included in $276 fee.
- Schedule at PSI centers (e.g., Auburn, Boston, Springfield) after application approval.
- Upon passing, pay the license fee at the test center ($104 for Journeyman, $155 for Master/Systems Technician/Contractor) to receive your license immediately.
- Valid for 3 years; renew with 21 hours of continuing education (15 on Massachusetts Electrical Code) and fees ($78-$117 depending on type).
- Start renewal via ePLACE portal 30–60 days before expiration.
Statewide licenses (Journeyman or Master Electrician)
Unlike some states, Massachusetts does not delegate Journeyman or Master Electrician licensing to local municipalities or counties. Instead, all electrician licenses are regulated uniformly across the Commonwealth by the Board of State Examiners of Electricians, ensuring consistent standards whether you’re in Boston, Springfield, or a rural area. Below is an outline of the process for these key licenses, which apply statewide without local variations.
Steps:
Contact the Board of State Examiners of Electricians via Mass.gov to confirm requirements. Unlike some states, Massachusetts has no local variations—licenses are required statewide for all electrical work (no small-job exemptions like Louisiana’s $50,000 threshold).
- Journeyman: Requires 8,000 hours (about 4 years) of supervised electrical work through an apprenticeship or equivalent, plus 600 hours of Board-approved classroom instruction (e.g., NEC, Massachusetts amendments).
- Master: Requires at least 1 year as a licensed Journeyman (typically adding up to 5+ years total experience) and an additional 150 hours of master-level education.
- Statewide Standard:
- Journeyman: 8,000 hours of hands-on experience under a Master Electrician or Contractor, paired with 600 hours of theory and code training.
- Master: 1 year of licensed Journeyman work, verified by a supervisor, plus 150 hours of advanced coursework.
- Submit your application through PSI (the state’s testing vendor):
- Journeyman: Provide notarized proof of 8,000 hours experience (e.g., affidavit from a Master Electrician), education transcripts, and $226 fee.
- Master: Submit proof of 1 year as a Journeyman, 150 hours of education, and $276 fee.
- Fees are fixed statewide: $226 for Journeyman (includes exams), $276 for Master. Apply online or at PSI centers (e.g., Boston, Worcester).
- Journeyman Exam: Two parts—Part I: 70 multiple-choice questions, 3 hours, theory/NEC; Part II: 30 questions, 1 hour, applied skills. Open-book (NEC and Massachusetts amendments allowed), 70% passing score.
- Master Exam: Two parts—Part I: 80 questions, 4 hours, advanced theory/NEC; Part II: 50 questions, 2 hours, business/law. Open-book, 70% passing score.
- Study resources: Latest NEC, Massachusetts Electrical Code (527 CMR 12.00), and Ugly’s Electrical Reference. Exams are administered by PSI at statewide locations.
- Licenses renew every 3 years (tied to the state’s cycle, not your birthday). Journeyman renewal is $78, Master is $117.
- Requires 21 hours of continuing education per cycle (15 hours on Massachusetts Electrical Code, 6 hours on related topics). Submit via the ePLACE portal at Mass.gov.
Required Exams
- Louisiana New Orleans W17
- Journeyman Electrician License Practice Test
- W19 National Standard Maintenance
Massachusetts Electrician License Reciprocity and Options
Reciprocity:
Massachusetts offers limited reciprocity for Journeyman and Master Electrician licenses, currently only with New Hampshire. If you hold an equivalent license from New Hampshire, you can apply via the ePLACE portal at Mass.gov, waiving the trade exam after verification. You may still need to meet education requirements (e.g., Massachusetts Electrical Code training) and pass the business/law portion for Master licenses. No other states have reciprocity agreements, and local variations don’t apply since licensing is statewide.
Apprenticeship Option
Many begin with a 4-year apprenticeship, often through unions like the IBEW (e.g., Local 103 in Boston) or approved trade schools. This combines 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training with 600 hours of classroom education, meeting Journeyman requirements. For Master status, an additional year of licensed experience and 150 hours of education are needed. Apprenticeships are Board-approved and widely accepted across Massachusetts.
Costs:
Initial fees for Journeyman licenses total $226 (application, exams, processing), with an additional $104 license fee upon passing. Master licenses cost $276 initially, plus $155 post-exam. Renewal fees are $78 (Journeyman) or $117 (Master) every 3 years, plus costs for 21 hours of continuing education (~$200-$300). Apprenticeship tuition varies (e.g., $1,000-$2,000 total for 4 years via IBEW), often offset by employer sponsorship.
Massachusetts electrician license search
The Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians oversees all electrician licenses statewide, including Journeyman, Master, Systems Technician, and Systems Contractor credentials. You can use state-provided tools to verify an individual’s license status, applicable to anyone performing electrical or low-voltage work, regardless of project size—unlike some states with cost-based thresholds.
Common methods:
- Mass.gov License Verification: Visit elicensing.mass.gov and use the ePLACE portal’s “Search License Records” tool to check active licenses by name, number, or profession.
-
Check with PSI Services: As the state’s testing vendor, PSI provides license status updates post-exam. Access via psiexams.com or call (800) 733-9267.
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Contact the Board Directly: Reach the Board of State Examiners of Electricians at (617) 727-9931 or email electrician.board@mass.gov.
Insurance requirements and safety standards
In Massachusetts, the Board of State Examiners of Electricians does not mandate specific insurance as a condition for obtaining or maintaining Journeyman, Master, Systems Technician, or Systems Contractor licenses. However, insurance is a practical necessity for electricians—especially those running businesses—and is often required by clients, employers, or local permitting authorities. Safety standards, enforced via the Massachusetts Electrical Code, are mandatory for all licensed electricians to ensure public safety and compliance.
Master electrician and business owners:
General Liability Insurance:
- Recommended Coverage: $250,000–$1,000,000 per occurrence (industry standard, not state-mandated).
- Purpose: Protects against property damage or bodily injury caused during electrical work, such as faulty wiring or accidents on commercial or residential jobs.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance:
- Requirement: Mandatory under Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 152) if you have employees—even one part-time worker.
- Minimum Coverage: No set dollar amount specified by statute, but typically $100,000 per accident, $500,000 policy limit, and $100,000 per disease to meet state requirements via the Department of Industrial Accidents.
- Exemption: Sole proprietors or partners with no employees can opt out but must file an affidavit of exemption with the state.
Journeyman and systems technician:
General Liability Insurance:
- Recommended Coverage: $100,000–$500,000 per occurrence (optional but often required by employers or clients).
- Purpose: Covers damages or injuries during supervised work, such as installation or maintenance tasks.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance:
- Requirement: Not applicable for individual licensees without employees; employers typically provide coverage for Journeymen or Technicians they hire.
Proof: While not required for licensing, a Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming clients or local building departments as certificate holders may be needed to pull permits or secure contracts.
Safety standards:
- Massachusetts Electrical Code (527 CMR 12.00): Adopts the National Electrical Code (NEC) with state-specific amendments, enforced by the Board. All licensed electricians must comply—e.g., proper grounding, arc-fault protection, and GFCI requirements.
- OSHA Compliance: Federal safety rules apply, including PPE (e.g., insulated gloves, eye protection) and lockout/tagout procedures for energized systems.
- Continuing Education: 21 hours every 3 years (15 on code updates) ensures familiarity with evolving safety standards.
Does a Massachusetts electrician license have reciprocity with other states?
The Massachusetts electrician license, issued by the Board of State Examiners of Electricians, has limited reciprocity, applicable to Journeyman and Master Electrician licenses. Unlike some states with broader agreements, Massachusetts currently only maintains a reciprocity arrangement with New Hampshire for these license types. Systems Technician and Systems Contractor licenses do not have formal reciprocity agreements with any state.
The Board of State Examiners of Electricians has a reciprocity agreement with the following state:
- New Hampshire
Key points on reciprocity:
- Eligibility: To qualify for reciprocity with New Hampshire, you must hold a valid Massachusetts Journeyman or Master Electrician license in good standing, with no disciplinary actions in the past three years. New Hampshire must recognize your license as equivalent based on similar experience and exam standards.
- Trade Exam Exemption: Reciprocity with New Hampshire typically waives the trade-specific exam if your Massachusetts license meets their criteria. However, you may need to provide proof of education (e.g., Massachusetts Electrical Code training) or pass a business and law exam for a Master license.
- Limitations: The agreement is exclusive to New Hampshire and does not extend to other states or to Systems Technician/Contractor licenses. Each license type (Journeyman or Master) is evaluated separately, and reciprocity is not automatic—you must apply through New Hampshire’s licensing authority.
- Statewide Application: Since Massachusetts licenses are issued statewide (not locally like in some states), the reciprocity applies uniformly to all Massachusetts Journeyman and Master license holders, simplifying the process compared to states with local variations.
What you should do:
If you’re looking to use your Massachusetts Journeyman or Master Electrician license in New Hampshire, apply via the ePLACE portal at Mass.gov or contact New Hampshire’s Office of Professional Licensure and Certification directly at (603) 271-2152. Submit proof of licensure, experience documentation, and any required fees (typically $50-$100). Confirm New Hampshire’s specific requirements, as they may request additional education alignment or a partial exam.
Boosting your electrical business with Workiz
After earning your Massachusetts electrician license, Workiz field service software can accelerate your business growth. It boosts revenue by 22%, saves 20+ hours a week, and helps you win 3x more jobs with online booking and real-time inventory tracking. Over 120,000 professionals—including Massachusetts electricians—rely on Workiz to streamline jobs, send invoices, and get paid quickly from anywhere, whether you’re in Boston or the Berkshires.
Workiz also enhances customer loyalty with automated reminders, text messaging, and review tools—perfect for building a strong reputation in Massachusetts’ competitive market. Its GPS routing cuts gas costs by 30%, a big win for navigating the Commonwealth’s urban and rural areas, while task tracking simplifies multi-day projects like rewiring or solar installations. New electricians can maximize leads and efficiency with tailored proposals and top-notch service, helping you stand out in a state driven by construction and renewable energy demands.
Frequently asked questions
Estimates assume starting as an apprentice with no prior experience. Statewide requirements vary, and accelerated programs or prior experience may shorten times slightly. Massachusetts has a uniform statewide system, unlike states with local variations.
| State | Est. Time to Journeyman License (Years) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 4-5 | 8,000 hours (~4 years) + exam |
| Alaska | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Arizona | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years experience |
| Arkansas | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| California | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam (C-10 license) |
| Colorado | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Connecticut | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Delaware | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Florida | 4-5 | 4 years experience + exam |
| Georgia | 4-5 | 4 years experience + exam |
| Hawaii | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Idaho | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Illinois | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years apprenticeship |
| Indiana | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years experience |
| Iowa | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Kansas | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years experience |
| Kentucky | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Louisiana | 4-5 | Local journeyman, ~4 years + exam |
| Maine | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Maryland | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years apprenticeship |
| Massachusetts | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + 600 classroom hours + exam |
| Michigan | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Minnesota | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Mississippi | 4-5 | 4 years experience + exam |
| Missouri | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years apprenticeship |
| Montana | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Nebraska | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Nevada | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| New Hampshire | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| New Jersey | 4-5 | 4 years apprenticeship + exam |
| New Mexico | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| New York | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years apprenticeship |
| North Carolina | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| North Dakota | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Ohio | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Oklahoma | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Oregon | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Pennsylvania | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years experience |
| Rhode Island | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| South Carolina | 4-5 | 4 years experience (no state license) |
| South Dakota | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Tennessee | 4-5 | Local/state rules, ~4 years + exam |
| Texas | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Utah | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Vermont | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Virginia | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Washington | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| West Virginia | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
| Wisconsin | 4-5 | Local rules, ~4 years apprenticeship |
| Wyoming | 4-5 | 8,000 hours + exam |
Looking up an electrician license in the U.S. varies by state, as licensing is regulated at the state or local level. Use online portals from state licensing boards or local government sites to verify a license by name, license number, or business. Here’s a step-by-step guide, with a Massachusetts focus and state-specific examples:
General Steps to Lookup an Electrician License
- Identify the State: Determine where the electrician is licensed—e.g., Massachusetts for this guide.
- Find the Licensing Authority: Visit the state’s licensing board or professional regulation website (e.g., Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians). For states with local licenses, check city or county sites.
- Use the Online Lookup Tool: Enter the electrician’s name, license number, or company name in the state’s public search tool.
- Verify Details: Confirm license status (active, expired, suspended), type (Journeyman, Master, etc.), and expiration date.
- Contact If Needed: If no online tool is available, call or email the licensing authority with the electrician’s details.
State-by-State Examples
- Massachusetts: Use the ePLACE portal at elicensing.mass.gov. Search “License Records” by name or number to verify Journeyman or Master licenses.
- California: Go to the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) at cslb.ca.gov. Use “Check a License” for electrical contractors (C-10).
- Texas: Visit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) at tdlr.texas.gov. Search under “Electricians.”
- Florida: Use the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) at myfloridalicense.com. Select “Verify a License.”
- New York: No statewide license; check local jurisdictions. For NYC, use the Department of Buildings at nyc.gov.
The national average salary for electricians ranges from $58,000 to $70,000 per year, or about $28 to $34 per hour, based on a 2,000-hour work year. In Massachusetts, salaries trend higher due to demand and cost of living, with Journeymen averaging $63,000–$75,000/year ($30–$36/hour) and Masters up to $83,000/year ($40/hour), per 2025 estimates:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): National median was $67,810 ($32.60/hour) as of May 2023; Massachusetts median was $74,620 ($35.88/hour).
- Glassdoor: National total pay at $73,236/year (base $63,762 + $9,474 extras), updated February 2025; Massachusetts base ~$70,000.
- ZipRecruiter: National average $61,391/year ($29.51/hour), licensed at $70,880 ($34.08/hour), 2024 data; Massachusetts licensed ~$75,000.
- Indeed: National $59,883/year ($28.79/hour), updated December 2024; Massachusetts $66,500/year ($32/hour).
