Becoming a licensed electrician is one of the best career moves you can make in 2026. The pay is strong, demand is consistent, and the path from apprentice to journeyman to master is well-defined. Here's exactly how to get there.
Step 1: Choose Your Path, Union or Non-Union
IBEW/NECA Joint Apprenticeship (Union): The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers operates a well-established, DOL-registered apprenticeship program. It typically runs about 4.5 years, pays a wage from day one, and includes full benefits and a pension. Starting pay is set locally, not nationally, so check your local JATC's published wage schedule for exact figures. Find your local JATC at electricaltrainingalliance.org.
Non-Union (IEC, ABC): Independent Electrical Contractors and Associated Builders and Contractors also run quality apprenticeship programs. Often easier to enter, especially if union waitlists are long in your area.
Step 2: Meet Basic Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- At least 18 years old
- Basic algebra skills (apprenticeship entrance exam)
- Valid driver's license
- Drug screening (most programs)
- Physical ability to do the work
Step 3: Apply to an Apprenticeship Program
Applications open once or twice per year depending on local JATC. The process includes: written aptitude test, interview, and ranking. Competitive spots go to highest scorers first.
While waiting, take pre-apprenticeship courses at your community college to strengthen your application. Many offer electrical fundamentals courses.
Step 4: Complete the Apprenticeship (4-5 Years)
Apprentice wages typically start as a percentage of the local journeyman rate and increase on a set schedule (often at 6 to 12 month intervals) until you're earning full journeyman pay and can sit for the journeyman exam. This is a common program structure, not a universal rule; exact starting percentages, raise intervals, and dollar amounts are set by each individual apprenticeship sponsor (union local or employer program), so check your specific program's published wage schedule.
Step 5: Get Your Journeyman License
State licensing requirements vary. Most require passing a written exam based on the NEC (National Electrical Code). Study resources include:
- • NFPA NEC Code Book
- • Mike Holt Enterprises exam prep
- • Your state's licensing board website
Electrician Income
The national median annual wage for electricians was $63,190 as of May 2025, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (10th percentile: $42,640, 90th percentile: $108,510). This is a national median, not a starting wage; apprentice pay is typically lower and master electrician or contractor income varies widely by market, business structure, and experience.
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