Electricians play a crucial role in installing, maintaining, and expanding electrical systems. Whether residential or commercial, these technicians are crucial to modern society. In Texas, one must have a license in order to practice. So, how do you become a licensed electrician in Texas? In this blog, we outline the various steps, from the very start—apprentice—to managing your own contractual business.
Step 1: Begin as an Electrical Apprentice
Your first step toward becoming an electrician in Texas is getting an electrical apprentice license. Working under the supervision of a master electrician, apprentices do not need to pass an initial exam, making this an accessible entry point. Be aware, though, that a history of criminal convictions or issues with previous occupational licenses might necessitate additional documentation. The fee for this application is a modest $20.
Step 2: Accumulate Hands-on Experience
Progressing from an apprentice to a journeyman electrician requires substantial practical experience. Specifically, you’ll need to complete at least 7,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training. For those aiming to become fully licensed electricians in Texas, 8,000 hours are required. Each master electrician who oversees your training must validate your experience using an Experience Verification Form.
Step 3: Pass the Journeyman Licensing Exam
After accumulating enough hands-on experience, the next step is to take and pass the journeyman electrical licensing exam. This test assesses your knowledge and skills in electrical theory, code requirements, and the practical aspects of being an electrician.
Step 4: Advance to a Master Electrician
To qualify for the Texas Master Electrician license, you must have worked as a journeyman for at least two years and logged 12,000 hours of supervised work experience. As with the journeyman stage, your supervising master electricians must verify your work experience. The application fee at this level increases to $50.
Step 5: Establish Yourself as an Independent Electrical Contractor
With a master electrician license, you can take the final step toward complete professional independence by becoming a licensed electrical contractor. This status allows you to own and operate your own business, bid on contracts, and supervise other electricians, providing a path to entrepreneurial success in the electrical industry.
Powering Your Future
If you’re aiming to enhance your skills or meet the continuing education requirements for your license, consider the benefits of online courses. Electrician continuing education in Texas can be conveniently completed through accredited platforms that offer flexible learning schedules without the need for final exams, paired with instant certification. Let us at State Approved be your partner in continuing education, helping you stay current and advance in your electrical career.