Licensing Guides
Missouri Electrical License: How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Missouri
Electrical, MO
May 11th, 2026
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Missouri
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Missouri?
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Missouri?
How Long Does It Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Missouri?
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Missouri?
Does My Missouri Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Missouri?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrical Work in Missouri?
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 Missouri.
Everyone needs an electrician at some point. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 818,700 electricians nationwide and 12,660 in Missouri.
The national number is predicted to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 80,000 to the ranks of this important workforce. In Missouri, that growth rate is expected to be at 8%, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVAC or mechanical professionals while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, construction employment in Missouri in July 2025 totaled 150,300, an increase of 3,400 (2.3%) from July 2024 and an increase of 21,300 (17%) 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 Missouri
Is a license required for electricians in Missouri? Yes. However, licensing requirements vary based on the locality. Most cities or counties in Missouri require electrical contractors to hold a license. Some cities also require trade licenses for master electricians, journeyman electricians, and electrical apprentices.
Electrical contractors must obtain professional licenses in the cities or counties where they work. Or, they may opt to hold a statewide electrical contractor license. The Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors within the Missouri Division of Professional Registration issues this license. This is an optional license for contractors who would rather hold a statewide license than apply for professional licenses in each jurisdiction. You’ll still need to check with the cities and counties where you plan to work to make sure you meet business license requirements, as many local jurisdictions have bond requirements for contractors.
We’ll cover the requirements of the statewide license, as well as the requirements of the two most populous areas, St. Louis County and Kansas City. In St. Louis County, the Department of Transportation and Public Works issues electrical contractor licenses. In Kansas City, the Kansas City Planning and Development Department Permits Division licenses electrical contractors.
Steps to Get an Electrical License in Missouri
In Missouri, the licensing process for electricians varies based on the local jurisdiction. Electrical contractors also may opt to hold a statewide license. To obtain a statewide electrical contractor license, follow these steps:
Be at least 21 years old.
Have at least 12,000 hours of experience installing equipment and wiring, or a combination of work experience and electrical field training.
Pass an approved electrical exam.
Meet liability insurance requirements.
Submit an application to the Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors.
Pay all applicable fees.
How to Become an Electrician in Missouri
To recap, most local jurisdictions in Missouri require electrical contractor licenses. The state also offers an optional statewide electrical contractor license. To become an electrical contractor in Missouri you must:
Be at least 21 years old.
Meet the experience and/or educational requirements.
Pass an electrical exam.
Pay all applicable fees.
Post a bond in each local jurisdiction as required.
Below are the specifics for the statewide license, as well as the licenses issued in St. Louis County and Kansas City.
STATEWIDE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSE
Work experience: To apply for a statewide contractor license, you must show proof of one of the following:
Completed 12,000 hours of installing equipment and associated wiring.
Hold a Journeyman Electrician certificate from a U.S. Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship program and have 10,000 hours of work experience installing equipment and associated wiring.
Earned an associate’s degree and have 8,000 hours of installing equipment and associated wiring.
Earned a four-year electrical engineering degree and have 4,000 hours of installing equipment and associated wiring.
Have held a current Master Electrician or electrical contractor license for the past six years from a local jurisdiction, which required passing an exam.
Pass exam: Pass an approved electrical exam. The office accepts an extensive list of electrical exams, including the International Code Council (ICC), National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA), and exams administered by Prov, Prometric, and PSI.
Apply for license: Apply online through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration MOPRO online licensure system or submit a completed application form to the Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors. The office provides application instructions, a forms page, and a FAQ page with additional information.
Proof of insurance: Provide a certificate of insurance showing $500,000 liability insurance coverage.
Pay fees: Pay the $200 license fee.
Note: The statewide electrical contractor license must be accepted by political subdivisions in lieu of a local contractor license. However, local jurisdictions may have additional requirements, such as requiring local business licenses and obtaining a contractor bond.
St. Louis County
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSE
Work experience: Electrical contractor applicants must submit documentation showing one of the following:
Completed 12,000 hours of experience installing wiring, equipment and materials as specified in the NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC) while working for an electrical contractor.
Completed an 8,000-hour electrical apprenticeship approved by the Department of Labor, and additional 4,000 hours of practical experience.
Earned a two-year degree from an accredited trade school focusing on electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, power distribution, wiring, and equipment. The applicant must also show proof of 8,000 hours of practical experience.
Earned a four-year electrical engineering degree from an accredited college or university and proof of 4,000 hours of practical experience in designing electrical systems for the purposes of distributing electricity.
Apply for license: Submit an electrical contractor license application form to the St. Louis County Department of Transportation and Public Works. Pay the $20 application fee.
Pass exam: Once your application is approved, the Board of Electrical Examiners will provide you with testing information. Take and pass the exam.
Proof of insurance: Show proof of at least $500,000 contractor’s liability insurance.
Obtain bond: Obtain a $10,000 indemnifying bond.
Pay fees: Pay the annual electrical contractor license fee of $125. License holders must also submit a $50 escrow deposit to cover any potential outstanding fees.
Kansas City
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSE (Class I, II, and III)
Work experience: For all of these electrical contractor license classifications, the qualifying party must have at least three years of work experience in the electrical construction field at the journeyman, foreman, supervisor, or contractor level. One of three years must be in the commercial or industrial field. For both Class I and II licenses, one of the years may be substituted with proof of a degree in electrical engineering from an approved college of engineering.
Obtain business license: Obtain a business license from the city finance department.
Apply for Certificate of Qualification: The qualifying party applies for a Certificate of Qualification through the city’s CompassKC online portal. Pay the $60 application fee. The city provides a certificate of qualification guide.
Pass exam: The qualifying party must pass an exam to obtain a Certificate of Qualification. For the Master Electrician certificate, pass the master electrical examination administered by Prometric or the ICC standard master electrician exam. For the master (limited) electrician certificate, pass the maintenance electrical exam administered by Prometric. For the electrical supervisor certificate, pass the low-voltage electrical exam administered by Prometric. The city may also accept comparable exams.
Apply for the contractor license: Apply for the business contractor license through the CompassKC online portal. Pay the $60 contractor license application fee. The city provides a business contractor license guide.
Pay fees: Upon business contractor license application approval, pay the $181 license fee.
Limitations: Those with a Class II or Class III contractor license are limited to performing only the permitted types of work (listed below).
Types of Electrical Licenses in Missouri
What are the different types of electrician licenses in Missouri? Electrical licenses are issued at both the state and local level, so types of licenses vary based on the jurisdiction.
The state offers an optional statewide electrical contractor license. St. Louis County has one type of electrical contractor license, and Kansas City offers three types of electrical contractor licenses.
Statewide Electrical Contractor License
This electrical contractor license is an optional license for contractors who wish to hold one license and work throughout the state. The state defines an electrical contractor as a person engaging in the business of installing, erecting, or maintaining electrical wiring, fixtures, apparatus, equipment, devices, or components regardless of voltage that are used for generation, transmission, and utilization of electricity.
St. Louis County
Electrical Contractor License
This license permits the installation or maintenance of electrical systems, material, apparatus or equipment.
Kansas City
Master Electrician Certificate of Qualification (Electrical Contractor Class I)
The Class I license permits contractors to install, alter, repair, or remove any electrical equipment.
Master (Limited) Electrician Certificate of Qualification (Electrical Contractor Class II)
The Class II license permits the maintenance and repair of an existing facility on property owned by the licensee or their employer. It also permits the licensee to assemble, install, wire, and connect electric lighting fixtures and extend existing circuits not more than 10 feet; connect gas-fired heating equipment to existing electrical circuits including extending existing circuits not more than 10 feet and installing control circuits; and assemble, install, wire, and connect electric signs when such connection is limited to extension of existing circuits not more than 10 feet.
Electrical Supervisor (Electrical Contractor Class III)
The Class III license permits contractors to install, alter, repair, or remove communication, fire alarm, burglar alarm, and remote-control equipment, as well as low-voltage power, signal, sound, recording, and similar equipment.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician in Missouri
There are many benefits to obtaining a Missouri electrical contractor license.
First and most importantly, most cities and counties in Missouri require electrical contractors to obtain a license to legally perform any electrical work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
You begin earning money from the start as an electrical apprentice.
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 Missouri?
The annual mean salary for electricians in Missouri is $71,230 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 Missouri those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $58,600
Intermediate (2-4 years): $68,700
Senior (4-7 years): $74,000
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 Missouri?
The cost of an electrical license in Missouri varies depending on the type of license and the local jurisdiction. These are the costs for the statewide license and the licenses in St. Louis County and Kansas City.
Statewide electrical contractor license: $200, renewed every three years
St. Louis County electrical contractor license: $125, renewed annually
Kansas City electrical contractor license: $181, renewed every four years
Kansas City Certificate of Qualification: $181 every four years
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How Long Does it Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Missouri?
The minimum amount of time it takes to get an electrical license depends on the licensing regulations of the local jurisdiction.
To become a licensed electrical contractor in Missouri, it takes about five years to gain the required work experience. Some jurisdictions accept a two-year or four-year electrical degree from an accredited school combined with fewer years of practical experience.
The great news is that as an apprentice, you begin earning a wage from the very beginning. Compensation increases each year as you acquire more training and knowledge, until you obtain a local journeyman electrician license, and again when you obtain a master electrician 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.
Missouri Electrician Training Programs and Schools
There are many programs to get the training you need to become an electrician in the state of Missouri. Since electrical licenses are issued at the local level, each city or county sets their own licensing requirements.
The state’s electrical contractor license requirements are similar to the requirements of many local jurisdictions, which includes hands-on work experience or a combination of formal educational training and work experience (listed in detail in the licensing requirements above).
Apprenticeship Missouri lists approved apprenticeship programs throughout the state. In addition, there are a number of programs offering an electrical apprenticeship. These include:
Associated Builders and Contractors Heart of America Chapter in Kansas City and Fenton
IBEW Local 1 and the St. Louis Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Electrical Industry Training Center in St. Louis
IBEW 257 in Jefferson City
IBEW 453 in Springfield
A number of colleges and universities offer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in the electrical field. These include:
Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City
Ozarks Tech in Springfield
Mineral Area College in Park Hills
Missouri State University in West Plains
Ranken Technical College in St. Louis
Tuition: Tuition cost depends on the program you choose. Some apprenticeships are fully paid by your employer with required good grades. A Missouri state resident can expect to pay about $4,393 per year in tuition at a community college.
Program Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED high school equivalent degree.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to use good customer service skills, possess mechanical capability, pay attention to detail, and be physically fit. The job typically includes hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces, and includes some heavy lifting.
For more detailed information about electrical school options in Missouri, check out our post — Electrician Schools in Missouri: The Ultimate Guide.
Missouri Electrician Licensing Exam Details
Licensing exam requirements vary based on the city or county where you seek licensing. The state accepts several types of exams for the optional statewide electrical contractor license.
For the statewide electrical contractor license, the Missouri Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors provides a document listing approved electrical exams. This includes ICC and NASCLA exams, and electrical exams administered by Prov, Prometric, and PSI, among others. Those seeking an electrical contractor license may take and pass an approved exam before applying for the statewide license.
In St. Louis County, electrical contractor applicants must receive approval from the Board of Electrical Examiners before taking an exam, unless the applicant has passed an approved exam within 24 months from the application date. The board supplies information to the applicant about how to schedule and take the exam. Prov also supplies a candidate information bulletin with additional exam information. The Master Electrician exam costs $100. The exam has 75 questions and a three-hour time limit. A passing score is 70% or higher. Exam topics include general electrical knowledge, motors and controls, plan reading, wiring and protection, and wiring methods and materials.
In Kansas City, Master Electrician applicants who are qualifying an electrical contractor business must pass the master electrical exam administered by Prometric or the ICC standard Master Electrician exam. Once the city approves the application, it provides applicants with exam information. The city may also accept other comparable exams from national testing agencies.
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Missouri?
Whether you need to pass an electrician exam depends on the license and the regulations of the city or county. Those who complete an apprenticeship will receive the work experience, training, and knowledge necessary to take a licensing exam.
For the statewide electrical contractor license, the Missouri Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors provides a document listing approved electrical exams. Preparation depends on the type of exam you plan to take.
In St. Louis County, Prov provides a candidate information bulletin with detailed exam information, including approved references for each exam. For the Master Electrician exam, references include the NFPA 70, National Electric Code, 2017 by the National Fire Protection Association; and the American Electrician's Handbook, 17th Edition, by McGraw Hill Publishing Inc. Prov also offers practice exams.
Who Issues Electrician Licenses in Missouri?
Both state and local jurisdictions in Missouri issue electrician licenses. The Missouri Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors issues an optional statewide license. The office is at 3605 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 1335, Jefferson City, MO 65102-1335. The office may be reached by email at OSEC@pr.mo.gov or by phone at (573) 522-3280.
In St. Louis County, the Department of Transportation and Public Works issues electrical contractor licenses. The department is at 41 South Central Ave., 6th Floor, Clayton, MO 63105. It may be reached by phone at (314) 615-4591.
In Kansas City, the Kansas City Planning and Development Department Permits Division issues electrical contractor licenses. The department is located in the city hall at 414 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, MO 64106. It may be reached by email at cdlicensing@kcmo.org or by phone at (816) 513-1500, ext. 1, option 2.
Does My Missouri Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
No. Since local jurisdictions issue electrician licenses, Missouri does not have reciprocity agreements with other states.
If you hold a current electrical contractor license and have passed an approved exam in another jurisdiction in Missouri, you may be eligible for an exam waiver, depending on the regulations of that jurisdiction.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Missouri?
Missouri does not have reciprocity agreements with other states for electrical licensing. The Missouri Office of Statewide Electrical Contractors states on its FAQ page if you hold a license in another state, you may email the office to see if you are eligible for reciprocity.
Cities or counties in Missouri may issue licenses by reciprocity, but it depends on the local licensing regulations. Those who meet the requirements for a reciprocal license typically do not have to take another exam, but still must apply for the license and meet licensing requirements.
National Electrical 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 Missouri?
Yes, there are electrical scholarships in Missouri. Scholarships are awarded through the state, trade schools, trade organizations, and colleges. Access Missouri provides need-based financial aid for qualifying students attending participating schools, which include trade schools throughout the state.
Other scholarship opportunities for trade or technical education include:
How Can Someone Verify My Electrician License in Missouri?
Potential clients and employees may verify your statewide electrical contractor license using the Missouri Division of Professional Registration’s license search page. Search active or nonactive licenses by licensee name, license number, or county. Or, you may download a list of active licenses by profession.
Verification also depends on the system of local jurisdictions. St. Louis County provides a downloadable list of licensed electrical contractors. In Kansas City, the public may search for licensed contractors by license type.
When Can an Electrician License Be Suspended in Missouri?
Suspending an electrical license means the licensee is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. An electrical contractor license may be suspended or revoked in Missouri for the following reasons:
Using fraud, deception, misrepresentation, or bribery in securing a license or in obtaining permission to take an exam.
Obtaining or attempting to obtain any fee or other compensation by fraud, deception, or misrepresentation.
Practicing incompetence, misconduct, gross negligence, fraud, misrepresentation, or dishonesty in the performance of professional functions and duties.
Violating or assisting others to violate laws and rules.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about Missouri electrical license regulations, refer to Missouri Revised Statutes, Missouri Code of State Regulations, or the code and regulations of the local jurisdiction.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrician Work in Missouri?
Performing electrical contracting work in Missouri without a license when a license is required is illegal. Those who violate state contracting law can face charges of a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about Missouri electrical license regulations, refer to Missouri Revised Statutes, Missouri Code of State Regulations, or the code and regulations of the local jurisdiction.
Continuing Education
The state of Missouri does not require continuing education before renewing the optional statewide electrical contractor license. This license must be renewed every three years. Renewal cost is $200. Contractors renew online.
Each city or county sets their own licensing requirements, so the local jurisdiction determines whether continuing education is required before license renewal. St. Louis County and Kansas City do not require continuing education before renewing electrical contractor licenses.
In St. Louis County, electrical contractor licenses must be renewed by Dec. 31 each year. Contractors submit a completed license renewal form. The renewal fee is $125.
In Kansas City, those holding a Certificate of Qualification to qualify a contracting business must renew their certificate every four years. The renewal fee is $181. Contractor business licenses must also be renewed every four years. The renewal fee is $181. Both the qualifier and the contractor renew the certificate and license at CompassKC, the city’s online portal.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all electrical 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.
