A Step-by-Step Guide How to Becoming a Licensed Electrician?

Most individuals contemplate making a career switch and becoming licensed electricians once they have completed their basic education. Licensed electricians make decent pay, enjoy the prospect of job stability, and get to use their hands to work on interesting tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the journey.

1. Complete Schooling Education, High School Diploma or Check GED Equivalence:

The first step is to complete your high school education or obtain a GED. Concentrate in subjects such as math, physics, and shop classes because they will be helpful in understanding electrical systems.

2. Consider Pre-Apprenticeship Programs:

Many aspiring electricians seek out pre-apprenticeship programs provided in institutions such as trade schools or community colleges. In these programs, you will learn basic of electrical practices and safety habits to prepare for a real-world apprenticeship.

3. Apply for an Apprenticeship:

Electrical training often focuses on apprenticeship as a core component. Generally, apprenticeships last for about 4-5 years and include both practical and theoretical training. You will be taught everything from the concepts of electrical theory to the practical wiring methods and all this while being paid.

4. Gain Hands On Experience:

You will be placed under an already licensed electrician as an apprentice and this is where you will gain practical skills. Therefore, this experience is very important as it assists in developing your skills as well as appreciating the hands-on nature of the job.

5. Assign the Final Coursework:

Apart from that, you will also be tasked with taking courses that will revolve around safety regulations, electrical theory, blueprint reading and building codes among others. These classes are frequently carried out in the course of your apprenticeship.

6. Take the Licensing-In Examination:

Upon the completion of your apprenticeship, you will be required to take a licensing examination. The examination covers topics such as the National Electrical Code (NEC), state and local electrical codes and basic electrical knowledge. In order for you to operate as a licensed electrician, it is a prerequisite that you pass this examination.

7. Get Your License:

If you qualify in the examination, you are eligible to submit an application for license for an electrician. The rules concerning licensing are different from state to state so find out the details with the appropriate board in your area.

8. Accept Additional Education and Focus:

However, even after receiving their licenses, a majority of those who practice as electricians will go after further prepared education on the recent code amendments and emerging technologies and trends. You may also decide to focus on residential, or commercial, or industrial electrical work.

Conclusion:

Although it is not an easy path to achieve in terms of investment, becoming a licensed electrician has its benefits. By undertaking these steps which include education on the required skill, an internship, undertaking the examination and training thereafter one will be on a good path to success in the electrical industry.