Licensing Guides
Pennsylvania Electrical License: How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Pennsylvania
Electrical, PA
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Pennsylvania
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician in Pennsylvania
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Pennsylvania?
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Pennsylvania?
How Long Does It Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Pennsylvania?
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Pennsylvania?
Does My Pennsylvania Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Pennsylvania?
How Can Someone Verify My Electrician License in Pennsylvania?
When Can an Electrician License Be Suspended in Pennsylvania?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrical Work in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania.
Everyone needs an electrician at some point. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 818,700 electricians nationwide and 22,730 in Pennsylvania.
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 in Pennsylvania is projected at 7%, 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 Pennsylvania in July 2025 totaled 260,200, an increase of 500 (0.2%) from July 2024 and a decrease of 6,500 or -2% 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 Pennsylvania
Is a license required for electricians in Pennsylvania? Not always.
To legally perform electrical services in Pennsylvania, you must comply with the state's Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. The state of Pennsylvania does not offer statewide registration, certification, or state licenses for electricians. Each of the 2,562 municipalities maintains its own license requirements for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors.
Electricians must abide by the construction industry guidelines and building codes in the area they intend to work. This guide shows details for the licensing process for Allentown, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia as examples, since every city and county differs in its local rules for electricians.
Steps to Get an Electrical License in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania electrician licensing is left to local municipalities. As a result, license requirements and license types can vary widely across the state. However, most localities require the following for licensure:
Be at least 18 years old.
Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
Gain practical experience to qualify for licensure, either by completing an apprenticeship program, attending a trade school, or working for an electrical contractor.
Pass a licensing exam.
Pay applicable application fees and license fees.
How to Become an Electrician in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania electrician licensing occurs at the local level. Many municipalities require the following:
Be at least 18 years of age.
Meet the educational/experience requirements.
Pass examination.
Pay all applicable fees.
Obtain liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage (if applicable).
Below are the specifics for each license.
Allentown
RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Work experience: Must obtain two years of practical work experience.
Pass licensing exam: Pass the Residential Electrician exam, administered by the City of Allentown Electrical Board.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50 application fee.
Limitations: Restricted to residential electrical work in one- and two-family dwelling and dwelling units.
JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Work experience: Must obtain four years of practical work experience.
Pass licensing exam: Pass the Journeyman Electrician exam, administered by the City of Allentown Electrical Board.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50 application fee.
Limitations: Must work under the supervision of a licensed Master Electrician.
MASTER ELECTRICIAN LICENSE
Work experience: Must obtain four years of practical work experience as a licensed Journeyman.
Pass licensing exam: Pass the Master Electrician exam, administered by the City of Allentown Electrical Licensing Board.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience and educational record.
Pay fee: $50 application fee.
Limitations: Considered the highest level of electrical license locally, Master Electricians can pull permits, supervise journeymen, and work without direct supervision.
Philadelphia
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENSE
Work experience: Must obtain a minimum of four years employment doing electrical work for a company licensed through a local jurisdiction. The completion of two years of education in the electrical field is equal to one year practical experience. Education can substitute for up to two years of practical experience.
Pass licensing exam: Pass the Philadelphia Electrical Contractor examination, administered by the City of Philadelphia.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience, educational record, and criminal history.
Pay fee: $160 license fee.
Limitations: No limitations.
Pittsburgh
ELECTRICAL TRADE LICENSE
Work experience: Must obtain a minimum of six years of experience, which can include a mix of on-the-job work experience and formal education.
Pass Licensing Exam: Pass the licensing exam administered via the Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections.
Apply for license: License application includes questions about work experience, educational record, and criminal history.
Pay Fee: $90 license fee.
Limitations: No limitations.
Types of Electrical Licenses in Pennsylvania
What are the different types of electrician licenses in Pennsylvania? Licensing in Pennsylvania occurs at the local level, so license types vary by locality.
Allentown
Residential Electrician
A Residential Electrician is authorized to perform electrical work in one- and two-family dwellings. Responsibilities typically include installing, repairing, and maintaining residential wiring systems, service panels, lighting, outlets, and code-required safety devices.
Journeyman Electrician
A Journeyman Electrician is responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing electrical systems in residential and commercial settings under the supervision of a Master Electrician.
Master Electrician
A Master Electrician holds the highest level of electrical licensure in Allentown and is responsible for planning, installing, supervising, and approving all electrical work. Masters can pull electrical permits, supervise Journeymen, ensure code compliance, and take legal responsibility for electrical projects.
Philadelphia
Electrical Contractor
In Philadelphia, the Electrical Contractor license authorizes a person or business to perform electrical contracting work throughout the city. This license functions as the primary credential to legally pull permits, contract work, and oversee electrical installations.
Note: Philadelphia also offers an Electrical Inspector license. However, the licensee cannot perform any electrical work, and can only inspect the work of a licensed contractor.
Pittsburgh
Electrical Trade License
An Electrical Trade license allows a person to perform electrical installations, maintenance, repairs, alterations, and upgrades that require permits under the city code.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician in Pennsylvania
There are many benefits to getting your electrical license in Pennsylvania.
First and most important, it is required by law to be licensed locally to legally perform electrical work in most municipalities.
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 Pennsylvania?
The annual mean wage for electricians in Pennsylvania is $75,770 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 Pennsylvania those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $60,300
Intermediate (2-4 years): $70,800
Senior (4-7 years): $76,300
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 Pennsylvania?
The cost of a license varies by municipality in Pennsylvania.
Allentown
Residential Electrician: $50 license fee; $120 exam fee
Journeyman Electrician: $50 license fee; $120 exam fee
Master Electrician: $50 license fee; $170 exam fee
Philadelphia
Electrical Contractor: $262 license fee; $115 exam fee
Pittsburgh
Electrical Trade Contractor: $90 license fee; $170 exam fee
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How Long Does it Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Pennsylvania?
Because there are no statewide licensing requirements, the amount of time to obtain licensing varies. Generally, it takes around four years to qualify for a Journeyman Electrician license in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Electrician Training Programs and Schools
There are many programs to get the training you need to become an electrician in Pennsylvania.
You can complete an apprenticeship program recognized by the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training of the U.S. Department of Labor.
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 local licensing board and deemed equivalent to the Department of Labor apprenticeship requirements.
There are a number of local community colleges that offer approved programs that lead to an Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology or similar degrees. A few are:
Penn State Harrisburg offers a four-year degree in Electrical Engineering and Electrical Technology.
Tuition: The cost of tuition depends on the program you choose. According to Community College Review, the average tuition is approximately $11,723 per year for in-state students and $15,818 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 equivalent 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 Pennsylvania, check out our post — Electrician Schools in Pennsylvania: The Ultimate Guide.
Pennsylvania Electrician Licensing Exam Details
Pennsylvania requires electricians to pass an exam for each license level, but it does not issue a statewide electrician license. Instead, individual municipalities set and enforce their own licensing requirements.
Allentown
After meeting experience requirements, electricians must gain approval to take the International Code Council (ICC) licensing exam, administered Pearson Vue. All exams are open-book, and you must score at least 75% to pass. The exam fees range from $120 to $170. Check out theexam catalog for more information.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia electricians must gain approval to take the International Code Council Exam, administered by Pearson Vue. All exams are open-book, and you must score at least 70% to pass. The exam fee is $115. Check out the Candidate Bulletin for more information.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh electricians must also gain approval to take the International Code Council Exam, administered by Pearson Vue. All exams are open-book, and you must score at least 70% to pass. The exam fee is $170. Check out theexam catalog for more information.
Topics on the examinations include general electrical knowledge, wiring and protection, wiring methods and materials, equipment for general use, special occupancies, special equipment, special conditions, and communication systems. See below for more details.
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Pennsylvania?
At each level you must complete a certain amount of training before being permitted to sit for the exam.
Allentown
The Master Electrician exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and you have five hours to complete the exam. You may use the 2008 National Electrical Code (NEC) during the open-book test. The exam covers the following subjects:
Wiring Methods and Materials
Branch Circuits and Conductors
Services and Service Equipment
General Knowledge and Plan Reading
Special Occupancies, Equipment, and Conditions
Equipment and Devices
Motors and Generators
Feeders
Control Devices
Wiring Methods and Materials
The Journeyman Electrician exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions, and you have four hours to complete the exam. You may use the 2008 National Electrical Code (NEC) during the open-book test. The exam covers the same topics as the Master Electrician exam.
The Residential Electrician exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and you have three hours to complete the exam. You may use the 2008 National Electrical Code (NEC) during the open-book test. The exam covers the following subjects:
Branch Circuits and Conductors
Services and Service Equipment
General Knowledge
Special Occupancies, Equipment, and Conditions
Equipment and Devices
Feeders
Wiring Methods and Materials
Philadelphia
The open-book exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. Test takers may use the 2017 National Electrical Code during the exam. The exam covers the following subject areas:
Branch Circuits and Conductors
Services and Service Equipment
General Knowledge and Plan Reading
Special Occupancies, Equipment, and Conditions
Equipment and Devices
Motors and Generators
Feeders
Control Devices
Wiring Methods and Materials
Pittsburgh
The open-book exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. Test takers may use the 2008 National Electrical Code and any edition of Ugly’s Electrical Reference during the exam. The exam covers the following subject areas:
Branch Circuits and Conductors
Services and Service Equipment
General Knowledge and Plan Reading
Special Occupancies, Equipment, and Conditions
Equipment and Devices
Motors and Generators
Feeders
Control Devices
Wiring Methods and Materials
Who Issues Electrician Licenses in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania does not license electricians on the state level. Each municipality has different requirements. Local Pennsylvania licensing boards are responsible for issuing electrician licenses within their own jurisdiction.
Does My Pennsylvania Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
No. Because Pennsylvania handles electrician licensing at the local level, the state doesn’t hold any reciprocity agreements with other states.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Pennsylvania?
Some Pennsylvania municipalities offer reciprocity with other towns. For example, Allentown recognizes electrician licenses issued from the cities of Bethlehem, Harrisburg, Kutztown, Reading, and Scranton. Consult each municipality for requirements.
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 (NFPA) 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 Pennsylvania?
Yes, there are electrical scholarships in Pennsylvania. Options include:
Electrical Association of Philadelphia: Awards multiple scholarships annually, including technical education scholarships for students majoring in electrical or HVAC technology.
Associated Builders and Contractors - Keystone: The Merit Shop Training & Research Scholarships are designed to support postsecondary education in construction-related careers, including electrical paths.
Claverack Rural Electric Collective: Offer scholarships for high school seniors whose families are members or employees of the collective.
Penn State University has hundreds of scholarship opportunities available for undergraduate students. Check out the scholarship portal to learn more.
There are several scholarships offered through trade organizations in Pennsylvania as well. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) in Pennsylvania offers several scholarships, including the IBEW Founders' Scholarship and other scholarships for members and their dependents from the local chapters, including Local 743 in Eastern Pennsylvania and Local 229 in York.
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 Pennsylvania?
Your electrical license can be verified by potential clients or employees in Pennsylvania by visiting the local licensing board in the city or town where you obtained licensure.
When Can an Electrician License Be Suspended in Pennsylvania?
A suspended electrical license means that the license holder is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Some of the common reasons that Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania electrician and electrical contractor license regulations, visit your local licensing agency.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrician Work in Pennsylvania?
In many municipalities, performing unlicensed work can result in fines, misdemeanor charges, and even jail time. Penalties usually increase if an injury occurs as a result of the unlicensed work.
Continuing Education
Continuing education requirements vary by municipality.
In Philadelphia, licensed electrical contractors must complete at least eight hours of approved continuing education annually, with courses based on the NEC. CE courses must be approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
In Pittsburgh, electricians must also complete eight hours of continuing education every renewal period.
Allentown doesn’t require continuing education to renew a license.
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.
