How to Become an Electrician in Colorado
Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Colorado
Quick Facts
✓ Information verified from official sources (Last updated: 2025-01-27)
⚠️ Important Note for Colorado
Colorado offers licensure by reciprocity for journeymen from states with similar requirements
Electrician License Requirements in Colorado
License Types & Requirements
Apprentice (Registered Apprentice)
- Exam Required: No
- Application Fee: $25
- Requirements: Must register and work under licensed electrician
Journeyman Electrician
- Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
- Exam Required: Yes - PSI (exam available in Spanish)
- Application Fee: $75
- Requirements: 8,000 hours supervised experience, pass journeyman exam
Master Electrician
- Required Hours: 12,000 hours of supervised work experience
- Exam Required: Yes - PSI (exam available in Spanish)
- Application Fee: $100
- Requirements: 12,000 hours total experience, 2 years as journeyman, pass master exam
Residential Wireman
- Required Hours: 4,000 hours of supervised work experience
- Exam Required: Yes - PSI
- Application Fee: $75
- Requirements: 4,000 hours experience, limited to residential work
Path to Becoming an Electrician in Colorado
Step 1: Complete High School Education
Earn a high school diploma or GED. Focus on math (especially algebra and trigonometry), physics, and shop classes if available.
Step 2: Enter an Apprenticeship Program
Apply to an apprenticeship program through a union (IBEW) or independent electrical contractor. In Colorado, you'll typically need 8000 hours of on-the-job training.
Step 3: Complete Required Hours
Work under supervision while logging your hours. Most apprenticeships in Colorado take 4-5 years to complete.
Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam
Study for and pass the PSI (exam available in Spanish) journeyman electrician exam.
Step 5: Apply for Your License
Submit your application to Colorado State Electrical Board with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.
Electrician Salary in Colorado
Source: BLS May 2024
License Reciprocity
Colorado has reciprocity agreements with the following states:
- Wyoming (by endorsement)
- Utah
- Montana
This means if you're licensed in one of these states, you may be able to obtain a Colorado license with reduced requirements.
Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Colorado
- Denver
- Colorado Springs
- Aurora
- Fort Collins
- Lakewood
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your electrician license in Colorado, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years).
Start Your Electrician Career in Colorado
Contact the Colorado State Electrical Board for application details and approved training programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an electrician in Colorado?
Most electricians in Colorado complete their training in 4-5 years. This includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training plus classroom instruction.
What is the average electrician salary in Colorado?
The median salary for electricians in Colorado is $67,580 per year. Entry-level electricians earn around $45,820, while experienced electricians can make $89,340 or more.
Do I need a license to work as an electrician in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado requires electricians to be licensed. You'll need to complete an apprenticeship, gain the required experience hours, and pass the state licensing exam.
Can I transfer my electrician license to Colorado?
Colorado has reciprocity agreements with Wyoming (by endorsement), Utah, Montana. If you hold a valid license from one of these states, you may qualify for expedited licensing.
What are the continuing education requirements in Colorado?
Licensed electricians in Colorado must complete 24 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years) to maintain their license.
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