Continuing education for electricians is important, particularly for electricians who want to stand out in a competitive marketplace.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the number of electricians is expected to grow 14 percent to 85,900 between 2014 and 2014. Furthermore, the BLS points out electricians often build their skill sets via apprenticeship, and many electricians have only a high school or technical education. The BLS also finds that most states mandate electricians be licensed, and electrical continuing education ensures you can maintain your licensure as an electrician as well as advance your skill set quickly.
At StateCE, we offer a broad range of continuing education for electricians. We even provide continuing education programs for the following electrician job categories:
- Journeyman Electrician
- Journeyman Sign Electrician
- Master Electrician
In addition, we want you to make an informed decision about your electrical continuing education. As such, we’d like to offer this electrician’s guide to continuing education that highlights some of the key questions to consider relative to electrical continuing education.
Check out our electrician’s guide to continuing education below, and you should have no trouble finding an electrical continuing education course that fits your career goals perfectly.
What Is Continuing Education for Electricians?
In several states, continuing education for electricians is a requirement. Most states set statewide licensing requirements for electricians, and a state licensing board frequently determines whether an electrician can receive or maintain a license. This board commonly has the power to suspend or revoke an electrician’s license, as well.
Comparatively, some states have no statewide licensing requirements for electricians. In these states, electrician licensing regulations are determined and enforced by local jurisdictions.
It’s also important to note that some states possess “reciprocity” arrangements for electrician licensing with nearby states that possess similar or identical requirements. In these states, an electrician can maintain a license in one state but is licensed to perform electrician duties in a nearby state, too.
Every state is different, and it is crucial for electricians to learn state requirements for continuing education. By doing so, these electricians can maintain their licenses and complete day-to-day electrician tasks without putting themselves at risk.
Does Continuing Education Teach Electricians About Various Electrical Codes and Enforcement?
The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) points out most states follow the NEC, while others adopt the NESC (NESC). This means electricians in these states must understand the electrical codes according to state requirements and may be required to complete continuing education classes to demonstrate their knowledge of a particular set of codes.
Moreover, some states define no electrical codes or have no enforcement agency in place. In this scenario, all electrician codes and/or enforcement are determined by local jurisdictions.
Even states that have statewide electrical codes in place may grant additional power to local jurisdictions, enabling these cities and towns to adopt more stringent requirements. Thus, electricians need to be aware of the electrical codes they must follow in a particular state, along with any potential city and town regulations.
Are There Exemptions to Continuing Education Requirements for Electricians?
The NECA notes some states have established exemptions for continuing education for electricians, and these exemptions may include:
- Electric utility installations and wiring
- Communications systems
- Specialized installations at mines, refineries and/or gas and oil fields
- Car or truck wiring
- Temporary wiring at construction sites
- Government installations
- Agricultural or farm installations
- Installations at one- or two-family residences
- Projects that an electrician completes on his or her own residence, i.e. a property that is not intended for sale
- Industrial projects
- Projects involving electrical appliances
When it comes to continuing education for electricians, it is always better to err on the side of caution. And if you are uncertain about continuing education exemptions in your state, be sure to contact your state licensing board or local governing authority to better understand what types of electrical continuing education classes you will need to complete.
What Are Some of the Electrical Regulations in the United States?
Here’s a closer look at some of the common electrical regulations in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia.
Alabama
The State of Alabama Building Commission enforces all electrical codes and standards, and this commission requires electricians to comply with the following codes:
- 2008 National Building Electrical Code
- 2006 International Building Code
- 2006 International Fire Code
Alabama does not have continuing education for electrician requirements in place, and offers reciprocity with several surrounding states.
Alaska
Alaska electricians must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), along with amendments accepted by the American National Standards Association (ANSI). All electrical installations at a public building or place of employment are subject to inspection by the Alaska Department of Labor, and all electricians in the state must be registered with the Alaska Department of Community & Economic Development.
Arizona
There is no statewide code for electricians in Arizona. Instead, most municipalities follow the NEC, and these municipalities will enforce the codes. And even though Arizona has trade examination requirements in place, the state’s Registrar of Contractors may waive these mandates if an electrician wants to be licensed in Arizona in addition to California, Nevada and/or Utah.
Arkansas
The Arkansas State Board of Electrical Examiners requires electrical installations to meet the 2008 NEC. State electrical licenses are mandatory in this state for electricians.
California
In California, all jurisdictions require electricians to comply with the 2007 California Building Code and the 2007 California Fire Code. All electrical installations in the state fall under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Industrial Relations, and all electricians require certification and must complete an apprenticeship program.
Colorado
Colorado electricians must conform to the 2007 NEC and other standards adopted by the Colorado State Electrical Board. These electricians must be licensed by the State Electrical Board.
Connecticut
Connecticut requires electrical installations to meet regulations set by the state’s Department of Consumer Protection and Electrical Board of Operational Licensing. Plus, all of its electricians must by licensed by the state’s Electrical Board of Operational Licensing.
Delaware
State-approved electrical inspection agencies enforce electrical installations that must meet the 2005 NEC. Also, all Delaware electricians must be licensed by a state board, and most electricians must possess between two and four years of schooling based on the electrician classification.
Florida
All electrical installation must comply with the latest edition of the NEC, and electricians must be registered with the state prior to certification. To become a certified electrician in Florida, an electrician must pass a state licensing examination.
In addition, Florida requires 14 hours of continuing education that must be completed every two years. This education must consist of:
- Technical training
- Workers’ compensation lessons
- Workplace safety training
- Business practice tutorials
- Advanced coursework
Georgia
Electrical installations are subject to the Georgia State Minimum Electrical Code, which includes the 2005 NEC and the 2005 Georgia Amendment. Furthermore, some Georgia counties have adopted amendments to the Georgia State Minimum Electrical Code.
Hawaii
Currently, there is no statewide electrical code in Hawaii, and each Hawaii county reviews electrical plans and issues permits accordingly.
Idaho
Idaho requires electricians to comply with the current NEC. All electricians must be licensed by the state’s Division of Building Safety, and continuing education is required for journeyman electrician and master journeyman electrician license renewal.
Illinois
No statewide code is used for Illinois electricians. Conversely, local municipalities often adopt the current NEC.
Indiana
In Indiana, electricians must comply with the 2008 NEC, which features minor amendments. There are no state licensing requirements for electricians, but many municipalities have established electrician licensing mandates.
Iowa
Iowa has set no state requirements for electrical installations. However, the state has adopted the 2003 International Building Code and 2005 NEC for reference.
Kansas
Many local jurisdictions in Kansas require electrical inspections, but there is no statewide electrical inspection mandate. There also is no state licensing of electricians.
Kentucky
All electrical installations must comply with the 2008 NEC, but local jurisdictions may set additional mandates. Electricians are required to be licensed in Kentucky, and continuing education courses in business and/or law may be required for electrical contractors in the state.
Louisiana
Electrical installations in Louisiana must comply with the 2005 NEC. Conversely, there is no state mandate for inspection of electrical installations.
Maine
Maine electricians must complete electrical installations according to the NEC, along with state regulations and municipal requirements. Also, electricians must be licensed by the Maine Electrician’s Examining Board.
Maryland
Maryland electricians may be required to comply with two codes: the Maryland Building Performance Standards for new buildings, or the Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code for buildings that are one year old or older. There are no statewide electrical inspection requirements in Maryland.
Massachusetts
Electricians must conform to the 2008 Massachusetts Electrical Code, which is similar to the 2008 NEC. Also, all Massachusetts electricians must acquire licensure from the State Examiners of Electricians.
Michigan
Michigan electricians must comply with the 2005 Michigan Electrical Code, and all electrical inspections are completed by state-licensed electrical inspectors. Furthermore, all electricians must work in the state and be a resident of the state, unless otherwise exempted.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, electricians must comply with the 2008 NEC and the NESC. Meanwhile, all electrical installations must be evaluated by the State Board of Electricity or municipalities.
Mississippi
There are no statewide licensing code or electrical inspection requirements in Mississippi.
Missouri
In Missouri, there are no statewide electrical codes, but local jurisdictions commonly adopt the NEC with variations. There also are no statewide electrical inspection mandates in Missouri.
Montana
Electrical installations in Montana must comply with the NEC. In addition, all Montana electricians must be licensed by the Montana Sate Electrical Board.
Nebraska
All electrical installations in Nebraska must conform to the NEC, and local municipalities may enforce additional requirements.
Nevada
In Nevada, all electrical installations must meet current National Electric Code requirements, and no statewide electrical inspection mandates are in place.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire requires electricians to comply with the NEC and the NESC. Moreover, all New Hampshire electricians are required to become licensed by the Electrician’s Examining Board.
New Jersey
Electricians in New Jersey must follow current NEC requirements. All electrical installations in New Jersey are subject to inspection by the Department of Community Affairs.
New Mexico
New Mexico electricians must conform to the latest edition of the NEC and the 2008 New Mexico Electrical Code. Also, all electrical contractors and journeymen electricians must be licensed by the state’s Construction Industries Division.
New York
New York has no statewide electrical code, but all electrical inspections must be completed by a state-approved electrical inspection agency.
North Carolina
In North Carolina, electricians must comply with the North Carolina Building Code Council’s regulations, and all electrical installations are enforced by county and municipal electrical inspection departments. Furthermore, 10 hours of continuing education are required in the 12 months following annual electrician license renewal.
North Dakota
North Dakota electricians must meet current NEC requirements, and electrical installations must be evaluated by an inspector who is certified or works for the State Electrical Board or is appointed by a municipality.
Ohio
Most electrical installations are required to comply with the NEC. Exceptions include electrical installations in one-, two- or three-family residences. Furthermore, continuing education and proof of $500,000 in liability insurance coverage is a mandate for electrician license renewal in Ohio.
Oklahoma
All electrical installations in Oklahoma must conform to the 2005 NEC, and statewide electrical inspections may be required upon request.
Oregon
Oregon electricians are required to follow the Oregon Electrical Specialty Code, which is based on the 2005 NEC.
Pennsylvania
Compliance with the 2005 NEC is mandatory for electricians in Pennsylvania.
Rhode Island
The Rhode Island State Building Code Standards Committee has adopted the NEC and State Building Code that electricians across the state must follow.
South Carolina
South Carolina electricians must comply with the 2005 NEC.
South Dakota
NEC and NESC compliance is a requirement in South Dakota for all electricians. Also, all South Dakota electricians must be licensed by the State Electrical Commission.
Tennessee
Tennessee electrical installations must conform to State Fire Marshall Regulation No. 15, which is based on the NEC. The State Fire Marshall is required to review any electrical inspections, as well.
Texas
The 2008 NEC represents the minimum standard for Texas electricians.
Utah
In Utah, all electrical installations must comply with the latest version of the NEC, and there is no statewide requirement for electrical inspections.
Vermont
Vermont requires electricians to conform to the current version of the NEC and gain licensure from the State Electrician’s Licensing Board.
Virginia
In Virginia, electricians are subject to the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, and each political subdivision is responsible for enforcement of this code. Also, all licensed electricians are required to complete three hours of continuing education prior to license renewal or reinstatement.
Washington
All electrical installations must comply with the NEC and other ANSI-approved requirements. In addition, all Washington electricians must be licensed by the Department of Labor and Industries.
District of Columbia
All electrical installations must meet current NEC requirements, along with regulations set by DC Construction Codes.
West Virginia
West Virginia electricians must conform with the 2008 NEC, and there are no statewide electrical inspection mandates.
Wisconsin
All electrical installations in Wisconsin must conform to the Wisconsin Administrative Rules, Chapter Comm 16 Electrical. Also, all electrical installations must be evaluated by state-certified inspectors.
Wyoming
In Wyoming, electrical installations must comply with the 2008 NEC, and a State Electrical Inspector will evaluate these installations.
A Final Word on Continuing Education for Electricians
Clearly, there are many regulations for electricians nationwide. But with continuing education for electricians, you’ll be better equipped to comply with various state requirements, both now and in the future.
With StateCE at your disposal, you should be able to build your electrician skill set. We boast more than 50 years of continuing education experience and are ready to help you move closer to achieving your career goals faster than ever before.
To learn more about our electrician continuing education courses, please contact us today at 877-603-4073. Or, you can browse our course catalog to get started right away.