How to Become an Electrician: Complete Career Path Guide

Your step-by-step roadmap from high school to master electrician

Career Timeline Overview

Apprentice

$35-45K/year

Journeyman

$50-70K/year

Master

$70-95K+/year

Total Time: 7-10 years from start to master electrician

Complete High School or GED

4 years

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Recommended courses include algebra, physics, and shop classes.

Choose Your Path: Apprenticeship or Trade School

6 months - 5 years

Option A: Join an apprenticeship program (4-5 years, 8,000 hours). Option B: Attend trade school first (6-12 months), then enter apprenticeship with advanced standing.

Ready to start your training?

Get Licensed as Journeyman

Varies by state

Complete apprenticeship requirements and pass your state's journeyman electrician exam. Requirements vary by state.

Gain Experience as Journeyman

2+ years

Work as a licensed journeyman for 2+ years (4,000+ hours). Consider specializing in residential, commercial, industrial, or solar electrical work.

Become a Master Electrician

7-10 years total

Complete additional experience requirements (typically 4,000+ hours post-journeyman) and pass the master electrician exam. This allows you to supervise teams, pull permits, and run your own business.

Salary Progression

Apprentice (Years 0-4)$35,000 - $45,000

Journeyman (Years 4-7)$50,000 - $70,000

Master (Years 7+)$70,000 - $95,000+

Electrician vs. College Graduate

Electrician Path

✓ 4-5 years training (earn while learning)
✓ $5,000-15,000 total cost
✓ $66,788 average starting salary
✓ High job security
✓ No student loan debt

4-Year College

• 4 years full-time study
• $50,000-200,000+ total cost
• $50,000-60,000 average starting (varies by major)
• Competitive job market
• Often requires student loans

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