How to Become an Electrician in Maine

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Maine

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $58,420/year
Job Outlook: 7% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 20 hours/triennial (3 years)

✓ Information verified from official sources (Last updated: 2025-01-27)

⚠️ Important Note for Maine

Maine has statewide licensing with reciprocity agreements with neighboring New England states

Electrician License Requirements in Maine

License Types & Requirements

Helper Electrician

  • 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
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience or approved apprenticeship, pass journeyman exam

Master Electrician

  • Required Hours: 12,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours as journeyman, pass master exam

Limited Electrician

  • Required Hours: 4,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $50
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours experience, limited scope license

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Maine

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 Maine, 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 Maine take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the PSI journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Maine Electricians' Examining Board with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Maine

Entry Level: $40,380/year
Median Salary: $58,420/year
Experienced: $76,640/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

Maine has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • New Hampshire
  • Vermont
  • Massachusetts

This means if you're licensed in one of these states, you may be able to obtain a Maine license with reduced requirements.

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Maine

  • Portland
  • Lewiston
  • Bangor
  • South Portland
  • Auburn

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Maine, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years).

Start Your Electrician Career in Maine

Contact the Maine Electricians' Examining Board for application details and approved training programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an electrician in Maine?

Most electricians in Maine 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 Maine?

The median salary for electricians in Maine is $58,420 per year. Entry-level electricians earn around $40,380, while experienced electricians can make $76,640 or more.

Do I need a license to work as an electrician in Maine?

Yes, Maine 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 Maine?

Maine has reciprocity agreements with New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts. If you hold a valid license from one of these states, you may qualify for expedited licensing.

What are the continuing education requirements in Maine?

Licensed electricians in Maine must complete 20 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years) to maintain their license.

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