North Carolina Electrician License: Everything Need You to Know

North Carolina 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. Across the nation, electrical job growth is outpacing the overall job growth; the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) estimates that electrician job growth will increase at a rate of about 11% over the next ten years.

In North Carolina, the job outlook is even brighter; the DOL anticipates job growth to improve at a rate of 14% in the next 10 years.

Electrical work requires specialized knowledge and sound judgment. Our guide reviews the requirements to attain a North Carolina electrical license. We also include information about electrical education, unions, and insurance, with all the helpful links you need to get started on your electrician career today.

Does North Carolina require an electrical license?

Yes, you need a North Carolina electrical license to perform work in the state. Local municipalities, usually cities or counties, or both, issue licenses for journeyman and master electricians, although if you want to operate as an electrical contractor, you must have a state license issued by the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors (NCBEEC).

What are the different types of electrical licenses in North Carolina?

Each city issues different levels of electrician licenses, usually journeyman and master, although there may be additional licenses issued by each city or county. We’ll feature some examples of requirements of different municipalities so you can get a general idea of what may be expected to secure your license.

The NCBEEC issues three types of electrician licenses:

• Limited License: Must have at least four years of practical experience. License holders are permitted to work only on projects under $50,000 or under 600 volts.
• Intermediate License: Must have at least six years of experience. License holders may work on projects under $130,000 and have no voltage limitations.
• Unlimited License, or Unlimited Classification: Must have at least five years of experience, supported by at least two electrician vouchers. There is no limit on the project value or a voltage limitation for unlimited license holders.

North Carolina city license requirements

Let’s look at a few of the requirements that major cities in North Carolina have for electrician licensure:

• Raleigh: Requires a minimum of two years experience supervised by a licensed master or journeyman electrician OR 36 semester hours at an electrician school credited by the City of Raleigh Electrical Examination Board.
• Greensboro: Requires at least four years of experience under the supervision of a licensed Journeyman or Master electrician.
• Mecklenburg County/ Charlotte: Journeyman licenses are issued through the Code Enforcement Department. Requires at least four years of practical experience under the supervision of a licensed electrical contractor. Licenses renew annually and require continuing education hours.

How to get an electrician license in North Carolina

Every electrical contractor license classification issued by the NCBEEC requires an examination. To sit for any of these examinations, you must submit an application and pay an $85 fee. In addition, you must be at least 18 years old and submit two character references.

Examinations for limited, intermediate, and unlimited licenses consist of 100 questions, and 70% is a passing score. You’ll be given six hours to complete the test. You can find practice tests and study resources here and here.

Many North Carolina electricians get started with either an apprenticeship or by attending trade school. Almost all of these programs require either a high school diploma or a GED and for the applicant to be at least 18 years old.

Tuition at a technical college may cost $11,000 a year. If you learn on the job through a union or company apprenticeship, you’ll earn a modest wage. Earning an associate’s degree in electrical systems technology will take two years.

Note that different schools may have different names for this program. Most technical schools also offer certification programs. A few of the most well-respected trade schools for electricians include:

• Durham Technical Community College
• Coastal Carolina Community College
• Wake Tech Electrical Systems Technology (EST) Program
• Blue Ridge Community College

Online electrical contracting programs exist as well. You’ll learn electrical basics, such as how to install wiring in accordance with safety codes and the proper method of working with high-voltage wiring and equipment. You’ll also learn the fundamentals of electrical switches, circuits and panels, conduit work, and commercial and industrial wiring.

All electrician students and apprentices need to purchase their own tools, so ensure that you calculate this into your school budget.

Though North Carolina does not license apprentice electricians, apprenticeship programs are offered through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), private companies, and training institutes. Professional organizations like the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) occasionally offer apprenticeships.

Professional certifications for North Carolina electricians

An electrician’s license is essential to work independently, handle government projects, or start a business. However, obtaining extra certifications can boost your career and unlock new opportunities. These optional credentials, recognized nationwide, highlight your expertise in specialized electrical work. They help you stand out in the industry, demonstrate your skills, and pave the way for greater professional growth and advancement.

National Fire Protection Association certification

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides certifications for electricians specializing in fire suppression, security alarms, and related systems. These credentials validate expertise, enhance professional credibility, and support career growth. With multiple certification options, the NFPA accommodates various skill levels and career paths. It also offers continuing education to keep electricians informed on industry standards, new technologies, and safety regulations. Additionally, the NFPA is responsible for developing, maintaining, and updating the National Electric Code (NEC) as needed.

NECA professional certifications

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is the leading organization for professional electricians in the U.S. Open to all electricians, NECA offers networking opportunities, continuing education, and certifications tailored to various career stages. These certifications validate your expertise, making you more appealing to employers and customers while boosting your professional credibility. As a highly respected industry leader, NECA provides essential resources to help electricians grow their careers, stay competitive, and adapt to industry advancements, ensuring long-term success in the electrical field.

Independent Electrical Contractors Certified Professional Electrician

The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) is a national trade association representing merit shop electricians and contractors. It offers education, training, and certifications to support career advancement in the electrical industry.

The IEC Certified Professional Electrician (CPE) designation recognizes top electricians nationwide and is accepted in every state. For those not yet ready for CPE, IEC provides various other certifications, including specialized options for niche fields. As a leading merit shop trade association, IEC offers continuing education and apprenticeships to update electricians on industry advancements.

For those not pursuing a union apprenticeship or trade school, IEC serves as a strong alternative, providing foundational electrical training and career development opportunities.

Average wages for electrical professionals in North Carolina

How much do electricians make? Your earnings depend on experience, training, and education. Salaries vary by role, as different positions offer different pay. In North Carolina, wages for the most commonly advertised electrician jobs reflect these factors, ranging based on skill level and job type.

Here are some of the most frequently advertised electrician jobs in North Carolina, covering all skill levels, along with their average wages:

• Apprentice electrician: $19.19 per hour
• Electrical technician: $27.37 per hour
• General electrician: $57,161 per year
• Journeyman electrician: $26.99 per hour
• Electrical foreman: $31.36 per hour
• Electrical Project Manager: $111,941 per year

North Carolina electricians earn less than the national average for most positions. However, many areas of the state have a lower cost of living than the national average, so this typically balances out the lower average wages. A general electrician in North Carolina can earn an average of $57,161 per year, compared to the U.S. average of $63,627 per year. Wages for entry-level positions in North Carolina are also lower than the national average. Apprentices in the Tarheel State earn an average of $19.19 per hour, and journeymen electricians earn an average of $26.99 per hour; the national average for these positions is $22.04 per hour and $34.11 per hour, respectively.

Electricians can boost earnings through overtime, night, or weekend shifts if their employer offers higher pay. Salaried electricians may not receive overtime but could earn bonuses. Business owners in electrical contracting can make six figures or more. Pay depends on experience, job type, and extra income opportunities, making the electrical trade a lucrative career choice.

Should I join an electrician union in North Carolina?

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) is the largest electricians’ union in North Carolina (and the country)  is the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Dues are $360 a year. The IBEW also offers apprenticeships through its local branches.

There are many advantages to joining. Union jobs typically pay more than non-union jobs and offer better benefits. Union contracts also provide more support for job site safety, and members can engage in collective bargaining for better pay, benefits, and workplace safety measures.

If you think union membership is the right option for you, consider joining one of the Locals, such as IBEW Local 379 in Charlotte, IBEW Local 553 in Raleigh-Durham, or IBEW Local 238 in Asheville.

How to use your electrician license to get a job

Skilled electricians are in high demand. Networking opportunities can help you find jobs, so don’t neglect the connections you made as an apprentice, in trade school, or with people you’ve worked with.

While approximately 10% of all electricians are self-employed, the other 90% are interviewing to land work. Interviewers are looking for solid math and verbal communication skills, mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and a healthy respect for safety management.

Most employers post open jobs online on popular job boards like Indeed, Career Builder, and Glass Door. In addition, the State of North Carolina posts government jobs on its website.

When you get an interview, arrive a few minutes early, dress nicely, and bring your tools. Some employers may ask you to demonstrate your skills briefly, so it’s better to be prepared.

Electrician insurance in North Carolina

Electrical contracting carries more risk than most other types of work. However, if you work for someone else, you’ll be covered by your employer’s insurance.

If you are an independent electrical contractor or own an electrical contracting business, you will need insurance to protect you against professional and general liability. Most clients require general liability insurance and a surety bond; however, if the project’s size, scope, and expense are exceptionally large, you may be required to carry additional insurance.

Contractors with employees (i.e., not single owner-operators) must also carry North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Insurance coverage.

Electrician industry trends

The construction industry is booming in the Tar Heel State. As a result, there’s a high demand for professionals qualified to perform electrical system installations in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. To date, automation has not been a trend in the construction industry, but that trend is changing quickly with the use of augmented reality technology. Wearable tech, such as smart glasses and intelligent headwear, are engineered to identify worker fatigue, making job sites safer. You can learn more about industry trends by attending trade shows.

FAQ

Is my license only valid in North Carolina?

North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

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

A North Carolina electrical license must be renewed yearly. You will need to take 10 hours of continuing education classes to renew your license, and at least half of those hours must be classroom training. Fees are $75 for a limited license renewal, $115 for an intermediate-level renewal, and $165 for an unlimited license renewal.

How can I change my name or address on my North Carolina electrician license?

To change your name or address on your North Carolina electrician license, you need to file a License Reissuance/Name Change Application with the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors; for address changes, you can also update your information online through your license profile or by completing a Contact Update Form and submitting it via mail, fax, or email to the Board.