Electrician Apprenticeship Programs

Your path to becoming a licensed electrician starts with the right apprenticeship program

What is an Electrician Apprenticeship?

An electrician apprenticeship is a structured training program combining paid on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. Most programs take 4-5 years to complete and require 8,000-10,000 hours of supervised work.

Types of Apprenticeship Programs

Union Apprenticeships (IBEW)

  • Through International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)
  • Typically better pay and benefits during training
  • Strong emphasis on safety and code compliance
  • Competitive application process
  • Free or low-cost classroom training
Visit IBEW.org →

Non-Union Apprenticeships (IEC, ABC)

  • Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) or Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)
  • More flexible scheduling options
  • Direct relationship with contractors
  • May have lower starting pay than union
  • Often easier to enter

Typical Apprenticeship Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Age 18 or older
  • Pass an aptitude test (algebra and reading comprehension)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Drug screening and background check
  • Physical ability to perform electrical work

Apprenticeship Timeline

Year 1

Basic wiring, safety procedures, NEC code introduction. Supervised residential or commercial work.

Year 2

Advanced wiring, circuit design, blueprint reading. More independence on job sites.

Year 3

Motor controls, industrial systems, troubleshooting. Lead helper on projects.

Year 4

Specialty systems, advanced troubleshooting, project management basics. Near-journeyman competency.

Apprentice Pay Scale

Apprentices typically earn a percentage of journeyman wages that increases as they progress:

  • Year 1: 40-50% of journeyman rate ($20-25/hour)
  • Year 2: 50-60% of journeyman rate ($25-30/hour)
  • Year 3: 60-75% of journeyman rate ($30-37/hour)
  • Year 4: 75-90% of journeyman rate ($37-45/hour)

How to Apply for an Apprenticeship

  1. Research programs in your area (union and non-union)
  2. Prepare required documents (transcripts, ID, resume)
  3. Study for aptitude tests (brush up on algebra)
  4. Apply during open enrollment periods
  5. Attend interviews if selected
  6. Begin work once accepted

Find Programs in Your State

Contact these organizations to find apprenticeship programs near you:

IBEW Local Union Directory Find your local union for union apprenticeships IEC Apprenticeship Programs Non-union electrical contractor training Apprenticeship.gov Finder Official US Dept of Labor apprenticeship search

Next Steps

Select your state to see specific licensing requirements and board contact information:

Select Your State →