Step By Step Guide To Become An Electrician In Idaho 2025
Step 1: Understand the Requirements for Becoming an Electrician in Idaho
Before starting your journey, familiarize yourself with Idaho's specific requirements. The Idaho Division of Building Safety (DBS) regulates electricians and outlines the necessary steps to become licensed. Visit their official website for the most current information.
Step 2: Complete High School or Obtain a GED
In Idaho, a high school diploma or GED is typically required to start any apprenticeship program. Focus on courses that bolster your knowledge in math, physics, and technology, as they are crucial for understanding electrical concepts.
Step 3: Research and Apply for an Apprenticeship
Secure an electrical apprenticeship as it is essential for hands-on training and education. You need a total of 8,000 hours of on-the-job training (usually completed over four years) under the supervision of a licensed electrician. Simultaneously, complete 576 hours of classroom instruction in electrical theory, safety, and code requirements. Trade schools, community colleges, or unions like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) can help you find apprenticeship opportunities in Idaho.
Step 4: Register as an Apprentice Electrician with the Idaho DBS
Before you start your apprenticeship, you must register as an apprentice with the Idaho DBS. Fill out the registration form available on their website, and pay the $50 registration fee. Registration is an annual requirement, so ensure you renew it every year to continue your eligibility.
Step 5: Gain Work Experience under a Licensed Electrician
While completing your apprenticeship, focus on accumulating the required work experience. Ensure that your hours are properly logged and documented as you'll need these records when applying for your journeyman license. Idaho requires comprehensive training in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Step 6: Study for the Journeyman Electrician Exam
Prepare for the journeyman exam throughout your apprenticeship. Use study guides, practice tests, and resources provided by your training program or other educational institutions. The exam tests your knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC), electrical theory, and practical applications.
Step 7: Apply for the Journeyman Electrician Exam
Upon completion of your apprenticeship, apply for the journeyman electrician exam through the Idaho DBS. Submit proof of your completed work experience and education, along with the exam application form. Pay the application fee, which is usually around $75.
Step 8: Pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam
The journeyman exam consists of a written portion to assess your understanding of electrical codes and theories. Upon passing, you are eligible to receive your Idaho journeyman electrician license.
Step 9: Obtain Your Journeyman Electrician License
After successfully passing the exam, apply for your journeyman electrician license through the Idaho DBS. Submit your exam results, pay the $100 licensing fee, and complete any additional paperwork as requested by the state.
Step 10: Consider Advancing to a Master Electrician License
With your journeyman license, consider furthering your career by becoming a master electrician. This requires an additional four years of work experience in Idaho. Apply for the master electrician exam and, upon passing, you can upgrade your license. The master electrician status allows greater independence, responsibility, and increased earning potential.
Step 11: Keep Up with Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your license, complete continuing education courses as required by Idaho law. The state mandates that all licensed electricians participate in eight hours of continuing education annually, with at least four hours focused on National Electrical Code updates.
Step 12: Renew Your Electrical License
Electricians in Idaho must renew their licenses every three years. Ensure you meet the continuing education requirements and pay the $45 renewal fee. Stay connected with the Idaho DBS for guidelines on the renewal process.