Step By Step Guide To Become An Electrician In Florida 2025
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED
To start the journey of becoming an electrician in Florida, secure a high school diploma or equivalent GED. Make sure to focus on classes like mathematics, science, and shop to build a substantial foundation for further learning and training.
Step 2: Enroll in an Electrical Training Program
Join a vocational school or community college that offers electrical training programs. This typically takes one to two years and covers essential aspects such as safety protocols, electrical code requirements, and hands-on training. Look for programs that are approved by the Florida Department of Education.
Step 3: Apply for an Apprenticeship
Secure an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on training with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships generally last four to five years and are sponsored by organizations such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) or local contractors. Apply to programs registered with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Apprentices can expect to earn a wage while gaining valuable work experience.
Step 4: Complete Your Apprenticeship
Fulfill the required hours of on-the-job training and classroom education. In Florida, this comprises approximately 8,000 hours (four years) of work experience and often 144 hours of classroom instruction per year. The curriculum will include understanding electrical systems, learning to read blueprints, and mastering the use of electrical tools.
Step 5: Obtain a Certificate of Completion
After completing the apprenticeship, obtain a certificate from the sponsoring organization. This certificate verifies that you have met the necessary training and educational requirements and are eligible to apply for the certification or licensing exam.
Step 6: Prepare for the Examination
Study to pass the state of Florida's Electrical Contractor Licensing Examination. Get familiar with topics such as electrical theory, Florida’s electrical codes, and safety practices. Utilize the Bureau of Electrical Contractors’ provided resources and ensure you have thoroughly understood the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Step 7: Apply for the Electrician License
Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) to take the licensing exam. As of 2025, the fee is approximately $315 for the initial licensing. Maintain compliance with all required documentation, including proof of completed education and fieldwork. Visit the DBPR Website to access forms and detailed submission guidelines.
Step 8: Pass the Licensing Examination
Take and pass the Electrical Contractor Licensing Exam. You will be tested on technical electrical knowledge and Florida-specific regulations. The exam consists of two parts: business and finance, and electrical. Applicants typically have two years to pass both sections.
Step 9: Obtain Liability Insurance
Purchase liability insurance as required by state law to cover potential damages or injuries caused during electrical work. Check with the DBPR for detailed insurance requirements, which may vary based on the scope of your intended work.
Step 10: Renew Your License
After obtaining your license, renew it every two years and complete continuing education requirements. As of 2025, ten hours of continuing education, including two hours focusing on FBC-Advanced modules and one hour on Florida Statutes, are required for license renewal.
For the most current and detailed information, always refer to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.