Electrician Licensing

New Jersey electrician license:
Everything you need to know

New Jersey has a lot to offer to a budding electrician. The state is constantly expanding, and with every new construction project, there is a need for skilled electricians to perform custom wiring projects.

 

Skilled electricians are in demand. It has never been a better time to apply for a New Jersey electrical license. As an electrician, you can earn a good salary with benefits.

The electrical industry is projected to increase by 8 percent in a few years. You must be licensed to benefit from its growth. Read this New Jersey electrical license guide for exam, licensing, and job information.

Does New Jersey require an electrical license?

New Jersey electricians must be licensed to perform electrical work in the state.

What are the different types of electrical licenses in New Jersey?

The state of New Jersey offers a journeyman license and an electrical contractor’s license.

Journeyman electricians

 perform electrical repairs, installations, maintenance services, and inspections. They supervise apprentice electricians. The fee for this license is $40. Applicants must:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Submit a color photo ID
  • Work at least 8,000 hours as an electrician
  • Complete at least 576 hours of classroom instruction
  • Have a valid electrical contractor license

Journeyman electrician licensees can fulfill work requirements by enrolling in a New Jersey apprenticeship program and earning a bachelor’s degree in engineering plus two years of practical experience or working 5 years in electrical contracting.

Electrical contractors supervise apprentice electricians. They perform a variety of electrical work including repairs, inspections, and installations. The fee for this license is $100. Applicants must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Have at least 5 years of on-the-job electrical experience
  • Pass an electrical contractor examination

The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs – Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors issues electrical licenses. The average hourly pay for New Jersey electricians is $23.62.

How to get an electrician license in New Jersey

Submit an application for a New Jersey electrician apprenticeship. Then, attend an interview and get hired. You must work at least 5 years as an apprentice under the supervision of a licensed electrical contractor. 

After your apprenticeship, pass an electrical contractor examination and apply for an electrical contractor’s license. Then, register for a New Jersey journeyman certification after you receive your electrical contractor license.

Electrician Apprenticeship Programs

New Jersey apprenticeships are sponsored by local unions, government agencies, and businesses. Electrician apprentices receive entry-level salaries, health insurance, classroom training, and work opportunities at commercial and residential job sites. Sponsors generally pay the costs for apprenticeship programs. Trade school and community college courses can cost as much as $350 per credit. Financial aid is available at many trade schools and community colleges.

Apprenticeship Program Prerequisites

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Be physically capable of performing electrician work
  • Have a clean driving record
  • Score at least a ‘C’ in a high school algebra course

On-the-Job Experience

  • Troubleshoot electrical systems and fire alarms
  • Take the required electrical courses
  • Install and repair electrical systems under the direction of a supervisor
  • Drive a company vehicle

Illinois Electrical License Information:

 Examinations for the New Jersey electrical contractor cost $100. Exam applicants must submit a photo that was taken within the past 6 months. PSI administers the electrical examination.

New Jersey Electrician Examination Content

  • Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
  • New Jersey Electrical Safety Regulations
  • OSHA Regulations

Examination Study Resources

Should I join an electrician union in New Jersey

Electrician union membership comes with benefits. The majority of union members have guaranteed pensions. Union members are protected from unjust dismissals. Unions go on strike if employers do not meet their demands. At least 93% of union members are insured through employer health insurance.

How to use your electrician license to get a job

You must plan ahead and take action to get an electrician job in New Jersey. Use these job search tips when you apply for electrician jobs:

Where to Find Electrician Jobs

Electrician Job Search Tips

  • Submit job applications from a professional email address
  • Set up the voice message system on your phone
  • Make a list of job references
  • Proofread your resume

Helpful Electrician Job Interview Tips

  • Ask questions
  • Wear professional clothing to the interview.

Electrician insurance in New Jersey

Performing electrical work can be risky. Electricians are exposed to electrical fires, UV rays, extreme temperatures, and electrical burns.

New Jersey electricians must have general liability insurance coverage at all times. This type of insurance covers property and bodily harm.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, “Alabama is the second-largest hydroelectric power producer east of the Rocky Mountains.” They also produce the sixth-most net electricity throughout the entire country.

Alabama’s use of hydroelectric dams on the state’s rivers has created thousands of jobs for both rural and city electricians. With the nation trending towards alternative sources of energy, electricians can expect more jobs like these to be created over the next decade.

Trade shows are the best way for electricians to familiarize themselves with new tools and trends in the electrical industry. This list of upcoming national trade shows can help you network and connect with industry leaders in your area.

Is my license only valid in New Jersey?

New Jersey does not have electrical license reciprocity agreements with other states. If you want to perform electrical work in another state, submit an application.

I already have a license but:

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

Licenses must be renewed every three years in New Jersey. Expect to pay $100 to renew your New Jersey electrical license.