How to Become a Journeyman Electrician

If you’ve ever considered advancing your career in the electrical trade, becoming a journeyman electrician is an essential step. A journeyman license opens doors to higher-paying jobs, greater responsibilities and the ability to work independently on complex projects.

Understanding how to become a journeyman electrician can guide you on this rewarding career path while helping your business grow with skilled professionals.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

The definition and role of a journeyman electrician
The steps required to earn your journeyman electrician license
The benefits of becoming a journeyman electrician
Tips for excelling in the process and beyond

Whether you’re an aspiring electrician or an electrical company owner mentoring your team, this guide breaks down the path to success in simple, actionable steps.

What Is a Journeyman Electrician?

A journeyman electrician is a licensed tradesperson qualified to work on various electrical systems without direct supervision. While they cannot yet pull permits or operate their own contracting business, they have the skills and certifications to work on residential, commercial and industrial projects.

Why Pursue This Role?

Becoming a journeyman electrician has a lot of upside:

Improves Career Prospects: It’s a key milestone on the path to becoming a master electrician or contractor.
Boosts Earnings Potential: Licensed journeyman earn more than apprentices.
Provides Independence: Journeymen can take on more responsibility and work on complex projects with minimal oversight.

Steps on How to Become a Journeyman Electrician

The path to becoming a journeyman electrician involves education, hands-on training and passing the licensing exam. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Complete Your Education

Start with the basics:

High School Diploma or GED: Most apprenticeship programs and trade schools require this as a minimum qualification.
Enroll in a Trade School or Vocational Program (Optional): While not always required, these programs teach foundational electrical skills and can help you stand out when applying for apprenticeships.

2. Enroll in an Apprenticeship Program

An apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Find an Apprenticeship: Search for programs through local unions, trade associations or electrical contractors.
Meet the Requirements: Most programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old and pass a basic aptitude test.
Commit to Training: Apprenticeships typically last 4–5 years, requiring 8,000 hours of hands-on work and 500–1,000 hours of classroom instruction.

3. Gain Hands-On Experience

Apprenticeships allow you to work under licensed electricians, learning critical skills as you go like:

Installing and maintaining wiring, outlets and circuit breakers
Reading and interpreting blueprints
Troubleshooting electrical systems

4. Study for the Journeyman Electrician Exam

Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’ll need to pass the journeyman electrician exam to obtain your license.

Understand the Exam Content: Topics typically include electrical theory, local and national codes and safety regulations.
Use Study Materials: Review the National Electrical Code (NEC) and take practice exams.
Consider Prep Courses: Many organizations offer exam preparation classes to help you succeed.

5. Pass the Licensing Exam

Each state has its own licensing requirements, but most exams test your knowledge of the NEC, state regulations and practical electrical skills. Passing the exam grants you the journeyman electrician license, allowing you to work independently.

6. Maintain Your License

To keep your journeyman license active, you’ll need to complete continuing education and renew your license as required by your state.

Benefits of Becoming a Journeyman Electrician

So now you know what you need to become a journeyman. Where does that get you? Earning your journeyman electrician license offers numerous personal and professional benefits. Here are four of them:

1. Increased Job Opportunities

With your license, you’re qualified to take on more complex projects and higher-level responsibilities.

2. Higher Earnings

Licensed journeyman electricians often earn significantly more than apprentices due to their advanced skills and expertise.

3. Career Advancement

Becoming a journeyman is a stepping stone to becoming a master electrician or running your own contracting business.

4. Professional Independence

As a journeyman, you can work with minimal supervision, gaining valuable experience and confidence in the field.

Tips for Excelling as a Journeyman Electrician

Once you’ve earned your license, the journey doesn’t stop there. Here are tips for thriving in your career:

1. Stay Current on Codes and Regulations

The electrical industry evolves, so staying updated on the NEC and state laws is essential for continued success.

2. Invest in High-Quality Tools

Having reliable tools ensures your work is efficient, safe and professional.

3. Continue Learning

Pursue certifications in specialized areas like solar energy, industrial systems or HVAC integration to expand your expertise.

4. Build Strong Relationships

Networking with other electricians and contractors can lead to new opportunities and mentorship.

How FieldEdge Can Support Electrical Companies

For electrical business owners, software like FieldEdge can streamline operations and support employee development.

Track Apprenticeship Progress: Monitor your team’s training hours and milestones.
Streamline Scheduling: Assign experienced journeymen to complex projects with ease.
Enhance Customer Service: Provide top-notch service with real-time updates and efficient communication.
Boost Efficiency: Optimize your business processes, allowing your team to focus on delivering quality work.

Sign up for a FREE demo to explore how FieldEdge can help your electrical business!

Your Path to Success

Knowing how to become a journeyman electrician is the first step toward a fulfilling and lucrative career in the electrical trade. With dedication, hands-on training and the right tools, you can achieve this milestone and unlock new opportunities in your field.

Here are a few takeaways:

Education and Training Are Essential: Complete a high school diploma, apprenticeship and classroom instruction to build your skills.
Licensing Is the Goal: Passing the journeyman electrician exam is key to working independently and advancing your career.
Ongoing Growth Matters: Stay current on industry trends and continue developing your expertise.
Support Your Team with FieldEdge: Electrical companies can streamline operations and help employees thrive using the software’s powerful features.

Start your journey today and take the steps toward becoming a skilled and successful journeyman electrician!