Licensing Guides
Minnesota Electrical License: How to Become an Electrician in Minnesota
Electrical, MN
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Minnesota
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Minnesota?
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Minnesota?
How Long Does It Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Minnesota?
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Minnesota?
Does My Minnesota Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Minnesota?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrical Work in Minnesota?
Working with electricity is a dangerous and demanding job, but with the right education and training you can learn how to do it right and become an electrical professional in Minnesota.
Everyone needs an electrician at some point. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 818,700 electricians nationwide and 12,970 in Minnesota.
The national number is predicted to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 80,000 to the ranks of this important workforce. That growth rate is expected to be the same in Minnesota, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVACR or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, “Construction employment in Minnesota in July 2025 totaled 141,500, an increase of 4,700 (3.4%) from July 2024 and an increase of 13,400 or 10% from February 2020.” So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from.
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Minnesota
Is a state license required to be an electrician in Minnesota? Most of the time, yes.
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry Board of Electricity is responsible for issuing electrical licenses.
However, Minnesota also allows unlicensed individuals to perform limited electrical work. Unlicensed individuals must register with the state and adhere to specific guidelines. For example, unlicensed individuals can work only under the supervision of a licensed electrician, and they must report their annual electrical work experience to renew their registration.
Steps to Get an Electrical License in Minnesota
There are different requirements for each level of licensure in the electrical trade in Minnesota. However, at every level, you must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have a high school diploma or GED.
Gain necessary work experience and classroom training.
Pass the required exams.
Pay all applicable fees.
How to Become an Electrician in Minnesota
Again, to become a licensed electrician in Minnesota, you must:
Be at least 18 years of age.
Meet the educational/experience requirements.
Pass the required examinations.
Pay all applicable fees.
Below are the specifics for each license.
JOURNEYMAN CLASS A ELECTRICIAN
Work experience: Enroll in a two-year electrical course approved by the Board of Electricity and complete 36 months (7,000 hours) of work experience, or complete 48 months (8,000 hours) of work under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
Pass licensing exam: Administered by the Department of Labor and Industry.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50.
Limitations: License allows you to perform electrical work for contractors and employers across Minnesota.
CLASS A MASTER ELECTRICIAN
Work experience: Requires a minimum of 60 months of full-time experience.
Pass licensing exam: Administered by the Department of Labor and Industry.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50.
Limitations: May supervise work and are required for responsible roles in contracting.
MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN
Work experience: Requires a minimum of 48 months, or four years of experience.
Pass licensing exam: Administered by the Department of Labor and Industry.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50.
Limitations: Works primarily on maintaining and repairing electrical systems for an employer or contractor.
OUTSIDE LINEMAN
Work experience: Requires a minimum of 60 months of full-time experience.
Pass licensing exam: Administered by the Department of Labor and Industry.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50.
Limitations: License covers work on utility line systems.
POWER LIMITED TECHNICIAN
Work experience: Requires a minimum of 36 months of full-time experience installing, maintaining, or repairing power-limited systems (such as fire alarms, communications, signaling, and low-voltage systems).
Pass licensing exam: Administered by the Department of Labor and Industry.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50.
Limitations: License is limited to power-limited and low-voltage systems only and does not authorize general electrical work.
CLASS B INSTALLER
Work experience: Requires a minimum of 12 months (about 2,000 hours) of electrical wiring experience.
Pass licensing exam: Administered by the Department of Labor and Industry.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50.
Limitations: May install and connect electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures, but only on specific systems and within defined limits set by Minnesota rules. Their work is typically restricted to simpler installations and does not include full electrical system design or complex commercial/industrial work.
Types of Electrical Licenses in Minnesota
Minnesota offers several electrician licenses. According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, they include:
Journeyman Class A Electrician
A Journeyman Electrician is a fully licensed professional authorized to install, alter, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Journeymen work under the direction of a Master Electrician but may supervise apprentices and installers.
Class A Master Electrician
Master Electricians have advanced qualifications and are authorized to plan, design, lay out, and supervise electrical installations. A Master Electrician may oversee Journeymen, installers, and apprentices and is often required to serve as the responsible licensed individual for electrical contracting businesses. This license requires prior journeyman experience or qualifying education and successful completion of the Master Electrician examination.
Maintenance Electrician
Maintenance electricians are licensed to maintain and repair electrical systems within industrial plants, manufacturing facilities, or large commercial buildings. This license is typically limited to work performed for an employer and does not allow broad installation work across multiple job sites like a journeyman or master license.
Outside Lineman
Outside linemen work on electrical transmission and distribution systems, including overhead and underground power lines. This license applies primarily to utility-related work and requires specialized training and experience distinct from inside electrical wiring.
Power Limited Technician
Power limited technicians specialize in low-voltage and power-limited systems, such as fire alarm systems, communications wiring, signaling systems, and data cabling. This license does not permit general electrical work and is limited strictly to power-limited installations and maintenance.
Class B Installer
A Class B installer performs limited electrical installation work under supervision. This license is often used as an entry-level credential for individuals gaining hands-on experience before pursuing a Journeyman license. The scope of work is narrower than that of a Journeyman and does not include full electrical system installation or complex commercial or industrial work.
If you want to start your own electrical contracting business, consider obtaining an electrical contractor license. If you have questions about requirements, you can consult the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. Typically, you’ll need to register your business name with the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office. You must also apply and pay a $168 fee to obtain your state tax ID number and federal employer identification number. If you have employees, you’ll need an unemployment insurance number.
Electrical contractors also need to carry several types of insurance, including:
$25,000 surety bond
$100,000 per occurrence of general liability insurance
$300,000 of bodily injury insurance
At least $50,000 of property insurance
Electrical contractors also must complete a certificate of compliance adhering to Minnesota’s workers' compensation law and employ at least one full-time Master Electrician.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician in Minnesota
There are many benefits to getting your electrical license in Minnesota:
First and most important, it is required by law in Minnesota to be licensed through the state to legally perform most electrical work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
You begin earning money from the very first day you begin the process of becoming an electrician.
It protects your company and customers.
It gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
As you build on your expertise your earning potential increases and you have more authority to pull building permits and bid on projects.
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Minnesota?
The annual mean wage for electricians in Minnesota is $83,030 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. That salary can increase as you acquire more experience. An electrician salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median electrician salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.59% for entry-level workers, 3.24% for intermediate level, and 3.15% for senior level electricians. In Minnesota those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $60,900
Intermediate (2-4 years): $71,500
Senior (4-7 years): $77,000
Salaries can vary widely, depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. If you choose to start an electrical business, this blog can give you an idea of how to improve your profit margins.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of an electrical technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one electrician software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive average tickets.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Minnesota?
The application fee to take the required exam is $50 for each license type. If you choose to complete schooling, which can count toward the experience requirement, you’ll incur tuition fees. According to Community College Review, the average tuition at Minnesota community colleges is approximately $5,489 per year for in-state students and $6,145 for out-of-state students.
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How Long Does it Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Minnesota?
Earning a Class A Journeyman Electrician license in the state of Minnesota takes between three and four years of full-time work experience, depending on whether you attend an approved electrical school. After holding a Journeyman license for at least one year, you become eligible to take the Master Electrician exam.
The great news is that as an apprentice you begin earning a wage from the very beginning and that compensation goes up each year as you acquire more training and knowledge until you are fully licensed at the journeyperson level. Then it goes up again when you acquire your master license.
As a licensed contractor you can start your own electrical business, be your own boss and grow your business as much as you want. And we have a tool to help you.
Minnesota Electrician Training Programs and Schools
There are many programs to get the training you need to become an electrician in Minnesota.
You can complete an apprenticeship program recognized by the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training of the U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Career Pathways maintains a list of available apprenticeships.
You can seek out a union apprenticeship available through local Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committees. JATCs have been established through the combined efforts of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) who have come together to form the National Training Alliance.
Or you can complete a technical school program approved by the State Department of Labor and Industry (DLI ) and deemed equivalent to the Department of Labor apprenticeship requirements.
There are a number of community colleges and technical colleges that offer approved programs that lead to an Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology or similar degrees. A few are:
Tuition: The cost of tuition depends on the program you choose. Some apprenticeships are paid 100% by the employer with required good grades. The average tuition at Minnesota community college is approximately $5,489 per year for in-state students and $6,145 for out-of-state students.
Program Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED high school equivalency degree.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job you will need to have good customer service skills, be detail-oriented, have mechanical capability, and be physically fit because the job can include some heavy lifting and hours of walking, standing and working in tight spaces.
For more detailed information about electrical school options in Minnesota, check out our post — Electrician Schools in Minnesota: The Ultimate Guide.
Minnesota Electrician Licensing Exam Details
Minnesota requires an examination for each level of licensing. To qualify for the test, candidates must apply, pay a $50 fee, and meet experience requirements.
Journeyman Class A Electricians must enroll in a two-year electrical course approved by the Board of Electricity and complete 36 months (7,000 hours) of work experience, or complete 48 months (8,000 hours) of work under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
Class A Master Electricians must have a minimum of 60 months of full-time experience.
Maintenance Electricians need a minimum of 48 months of full-time experience.
An Outside Lineman requires a minimum of 60 months of full-time experience.
A Power Limited Technician must have a minimum of 36 months of full-time experience installing, maintaining, or repairing power-limited systems (such as fire alarms, communications, signaling, and low-voltage systems).
A Class B Installer requires a minimum of 12 months (about 2,000 hours) of electrical wiring experience.
The Department of Labor and Industry provides an Electrical License Examination Guide with everything you need to know about scheduling and taking the required exams.
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Minnesota?
At each level you must complete a certain amount of training before being permitted to sit for the exam. The exam guide includes sample questions and reference materials to help license candidates prepare. Electrical exams are based on the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). The Lineman license examination is based on the 2023 National Electrical Safety Code.
The Journeyman license examination contains 80 questions, and you have 5.5 hours to score at least 70%.
Exam topics include:
National Electrical Code
General Electrical Concepts
Wiring and Protection
Wiring Methods and Materials
Equipment for General Use
Special Occupancies
Special Conditions
Tables
Applied Electrical Theory, Systems, and Equipment
The Master Electrician license examination covers the same topics as the Journeyman exam, along with more advanced content. It contains 80 questions, and you have 5.5 hours to score at least 70%.
Who Issues Electrician Licenses in Minnesota?
The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry issues electrician licenses in Minnesota.
Does My Minnesota Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
Yes. For Class A Journeyworker Electricians, Minnesota has license reciprocity agreements with Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. For Class A Master Electricians, Minnesota has license reciprocity with Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Minnesota?
Out-of-state applicants must fill out the reciprocity application and pay a $50 fee. The applicant’s out-of-state license must be in good standing and have been active for at least a year prior to applying for reciprocity.
National Electrician Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The main national electrical certifications are:
Independent Electrical Contractors certification
National Fire Protection Association certification
Professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability as a service provider and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Are There Electrician Scholarships in Minnesota?
Yes, there are electrical scholarships in Minnesota. They include:
North Star Promise: Offers several scholarships for the trades, including electrical. The program covers all tuition costs at a Minnesota Community College.
Workforce Development Scholarships: The scholarships, funded by the Minnesota Legislature, provide free aid of $2,500 per academic year ($1,250 per semester) up to a maximum of $5,000 over four semesters for students enrolled in qualified programs.
Every scholarship has slightly different requirements and application processes but in general you will need to:
Visit the organization's website.
Fill out an application.
Include a letter or letters of recommendation.
Wait for scholarships to be awarded.
How Can Someone Verify My Electrician License in Minnesota?
Your electrician license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Minnesota through DLI’s online search tool. Users can search by name or license number.
When Can an Electrician License Be Suspended in Minnesota?
A suspended electrical license means that the license holder is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that Minnesota electrician licenses can be suspended are:
Fraud in obtaining a license
Professional incompetence
Misleading or deceptive practices
Unethical conduct or practice harmful to the public
Habitual intoxication or addiction to drugs
Client fraud
Code violations
Electrical permit abuse
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Minnesota electrician license regulations you can refer to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrician Work in Minnesota?
According to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, performing or offering to perform electrical work without the required license can result in enforcement action. Unlicensed electricians may face fines of up to $10,000 per violation, cease-and-desist orders, and misdemeanor criminal charges in certain cases.
Continuing Education
Master electricians, journeyman electricians, maintenance electricians, and installers must complete 16 hours of continuing education courses for license renewal. Twelve hours must focus on statutes and rules governing electrical installations, Minnesota electrical licensing laws and rules, and technical topics related to electrical installations and equipment. Four hours must focus on the National Electrical Code. A Power Limited Tech also needs 16 hours of continuing education, but with 12 of those hours related to National Electrical Code. Continuing education information and a directory of approved courses can be found here.
The renewal process and renewal fees are also available online.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all electrician industry news in several ways:
Check top electrician blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your electrical business.
Listen to top electrician podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive electrician business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
