New Jersey Electrician License: Everything You Need to Know
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 Illinois?
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.
Electrician Industry Trends
Home remodels are on the rise. Electricians are needed to rewire older homes and install modern lighting fixtures.
New electrical tools are equipped with smart technology to enhance safety for electricians. These tools are showcased at electrical industry trade shows.
Older power grids must be updated. Private companies and government agencies depend on electricians to upgrade power grids.
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:
I changed my name - Complete a form to change your name on your card.
I misplaced the card - Request a duplicate license from the New Jersey licensing board.
I changed my address - Complete change of address form.
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.
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