Colorado Electrical License: Everything You Need to Know

Do you want a new career? Then, explore jobs in the electrical industry. This fast-paced profession lets you help customers every day and, if you want, you can start your own business. In this guide, learn how to earn your Colorado electrical license. We’ve included helpful links for license applications, apprenticeships, and other professional education sites.

Does Colorado require an electrical license?

Yes, you need a Colorado electrical license to perform electrical work in the state. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) issues all electrician licenses in the state, from apprentice to contractor.  

What are the different types of electrical licenses in Colorado?

There are three main categories of electrical license in the state of Colorado:

Residential wireman, permitted to work on residential properties

Journeyman electricians, permitted to perform commercial and industrial work

Master electricians who can supervise and plan electrical projects

What are the requirements to get a Colorado electrician license?

Your first step to securing one of the three Colorado electrician licenses is registering as an apprentice with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies. Once you’re registered, you can apply for an internship. Colorado offers both union and non-union apprenticeships. Check out the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JACT) for union internships, which are offered in Denver, Colorado Springs, Clifton, and Pueblo. If you have a union internship, you may be a good candidate for a union job once you obtain your license.

If you opt for the non-union route, two of the largest and most well-respected internship organizations are the Independent Electrical Contractors, Rocky Mountain Chapter, and the Construction Industry Training Council of Colorado, which is affiliated with the Associated Builders and Contractors, Rocky Mountain Chapter.

For both union and non-union apprenticeships, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or a GED
• Be physically fit/ able to perform the work duties
• Have a valid photo ID
• Have reliable transportation
• Pass a general aptitude test

Once you have selected your apprenticeship, you must register it with the Colorado State Electrical Board and pay a $30 registration fee.

Colorado journeyman license requirements

Your next step, after completing your apprenticeship, is to apply for a journeyman electrician license. Submit your application and the $100 licensing fee, along with;

• Proof of at least 288 hours of classroom training PLUS at least 8,000 hours of field experience supervised by  a licensed electrician, OR
• Provide proof of a two-year degree from an electrician trade school, technology school, or community college, PLUS 6,000 hours of work experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician

You must pass the journeyman licensing exam with a score of 70%. PSI proctors the exam, and practice exams are available on its website. The cost is $75. Licenses are renewed every three years.

Master Electrician license requirements

Once you pass your journeyman exam, you are eligible to apply for a Master Electrician license. Submit your application, along with proof of one of the following criteria:

• Proof of a community college or trade school degree in electrical construction or a related field PLUS 8,000 hours of work expense OR
• Proof of an electrical engineering degree from a four-year college or university PLUS proof of at least 2,000 hours of work as a registered electrician apprentice OR
• Provide proof of at least 2,000 hours of employment in electrical system planning, layout, and supervision

You must also pass the test with a score of 70% and pay the $75 exam fee. Licenses are valid for three years.

Electrical contractor requirements

If you want to own your own electrician business, even if you are the sole owner-operator, you must have an electrical contractor license. Fill out an application and provide proof of general liability insurance, Colorado workers’ compensation coverage, and unemployment compensation. You must also either employ someone with a valid Master Electrician license or have a valid one yourself. Contactors licenses are also valid for three years and must be renewed at a cost of $120.

NECA Certifications

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is the country’s largest non-profit organization for electrical professionals. It offers mini-courses for specialty electrical work and general knowledge certifications. Although a NECA certification (or many certifications) isn’t Colorado, it is mandatory to perform electrical work in Colorado; they do demonstrate to potential clients and employers that you possess a certain level of expertise or skills in niche work.

NECA also affords members networking opportunities to help them find jobs, hire qualified electricians, or find clients.

How much do electricians make in Colorado?

Employers in Colorado offer many different types of electrician jobs. Some of the most common titles that you’ll see employers offer and the average wage in the state are as follows:

• Electrician helper: $20.92 per hour
• Apprentice electrician: $24.02 per hour
• Electrician journeyman: $74,060 per year
• Electrician: $56,300 per year
• Electrical foreman: $79,521 per year
• Electrical Project Manager: $99,831 per year

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Colorado electricians’. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the bureau pay is about on par with the national average: $29.59 per hour. It also estimates that the average annual salary for salaried electrical professionals is $60,240.

If you live in a high-cost-of-living area, like Denver or in popular ski towns, you may make more money than you would in a lower-cost-of-living area. And if you choose to open your own contractor business, the sky is the limit on your earnings.

Should I join an electrician union in Colorado?

The benefits of being a union member include job placement and ongoing training, as well as many networking opportunities. However, some employers do not work with union members.

The quality of apprenticeships offered by union organizations and non-union ones is comparable, so choosing union or non-union would not mean sacrificing a good education.

How to use your electrician license to get a job

When you’re working independently, be honest about your licensing and experience and use good communication skills with your customers. If you’re looking for a position with an organization, use word-of-mouth and an online job search to find openings. During interviews, explain your experience and your willingness to adapt to situations. In general, employers want to find people who will be team players and who can accept increasing responsibilities.

Don’t neglect your professional network, either. People you’ve worked for, people you served under as an apprentice, your old teachers, or union members can all help direct you to a good employer. You could also leverage your NECA connections for employment.

Electrician insurance in Colorado

If you have a contractor business in Colorado, you must carry state Workers’ Compensation coverage and general liability insurance.

Electrical industry trends

To stay up to date on advancements in the field, you can attend trade shows and conferences. Exposure to new products and new ways of thinking can help you better position yourself in the market.

Some Colorado-specific trends in electrical careers include:

• High projected job growth, much faster than the national average
• Focus on renewable energy, specifically solar power systems
• Building electrification, including HVAC system
• Residential and commercial construction boom, which means plenty of potential clients for contractors
• Skilled labor shortage—Colorado is experiencing a shortage of skilled tradespeople

Frequently Asked Questions about Colorado Electrician Licenses

Is my license only valid in Colorado?

No, Colorado has a reciprocal licensing agreement with Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.

How do I change my contact information or address?

To update your contact information, visit the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.

How often do I need to renew my electrician license in Colorado?

Colorado electrical licenses must be renewed every three years. You must complete 24 continuing education units to get your license renewed.