How to become an Electrician
What the job is really like, school vs. apprenticeship, the certifications you need, and what it pays, from primary sources.
Lowest 10%: under $42,640 · Highest 10%: over $108,510
Jobs (2025): 821,000 · Projected growth 2025–35: 9% (much faster than average) · Openings per year: ~72,700
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electricians
The job
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical power, communications, lighting and control systems in homes, businesses and factories. They read blueprints, follow the National Electrical Code, and troubleshoot with tools like ammeters, voltmeters, thermal scanners and cable testers.
The honest part: BLS notes common injuries include shocks, falls and burns; work can be in cramped spaces or at heights, with long periods of standing and kneeling. Overtime is common. BLS lists color vision as important because wires are identified by color.
Trade school vs. apprenticeship
Apprenticeship (the main route): BLS says most electricians learn in a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship with about 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training each year plus technical instruction (electrical theory, blueprint reading, math, code, safety). Unions and contractor associations sponsor programs.
Trade school: some start at a technical school; BLS says graduates "usually receive credit toward their apprenticeship." It's usually a supplement to, not a replacement for, the apprenticeship.
Certifications and licensing
License: BLS says most states require electricians to pass a test and be licensed, with requirements that vary by state; continuing education may be required to keep it. After an apprenticeship you're a journey worker; master electrician status requires additional requirements. Check CareerOneStop or your state electrical board.
Optional certifications exist for areas like solar photovoltaic or lighting systems. A driver's license may be required.
Pay by industry
| Industry (May 2025) | Median annual wage |
|---|---|
| Government | $79,820 |
| Manufacturing | $74,550 |
| Electrical contractors | $61,570 |
| Employment services | $57,760 |
The median is the midpoint: half earned more, half less. BLS wage data excludes self-employed workers. Apprentices and new hires usually start below the median. For your area, see the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics state and metro data.
How to start
- Finish high school or a GED; math matters.
- Search apprenticeship.gov and contact your local union-management apprenticeship committee or contractor associations.
- Check your state's licensing path (CareerOneStop).
Sources
- BLS OOH: Electricians (last modified Aug 27, 2026)
- U.S. DOL: apprenticeship.gov
- CareerOneStop License Finder (state licensing boards)
Checked October 17, 2026.