Step By Step Guide To Become An Electrician In New Hampshire 2025
Becoming an electrician in New Hampshire requires meeting specific state requirements to ensure safety and skill proficiency. Follow this step-by-step guide to understand the process.
Step 1: Meet Basic Educational Requirements
To begin your journey as an electrician in New Hampshire, obtain a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) certificate. This is often a requirement for further education and apprenticeships.
Step 2: Enroll in an Electrical Training Program
Choose a certified electrical training program to gain foundational knowledge. Community colleges and vocational schools in New Hampshire offer electrical courses that cover basic electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), and hands-on experience. Institutions like Manchester Community College provide relevant programs.
Step 3: Start an Apprenticeship
Apply for an apprenticeship with a licensed electrician or a union in New Hampshire. Apprenticeships typically last four years and require at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. The New Hampshire Electricians’ Board oversees apprenticeships; you can find more information on their website: NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.
Step 4: Register as an Apprentice
All electrical apprentices must register with the New Hampshire Electricians’ Board. Complete the Apprentice Registration Application and submit it along with the required fee. As of 2025, the registration fee is $30. Keep your registration current throughout your apprenticeship.
Step 5: Complete Required Coursework
During your apprenticeship, complete the mandatory 576 hours of classroom instruction. This coursework covers critical areas such as circuitry, safety protocols, and the latest electrical systems technologies. Adherence to the National Electrical Code is emphasized in these classes.
Step 6: Apply for the Journeyman Electrician License
Once you finish the apprenticeship program and meet all necessary training hours, apply to become a licensed journeyman electrician. Submit the Journeyman License Application to the New Hampshire Electricians’ Board with a non-refundable $50 application fee. Ensure your application includes proof of completed apprenticeship.
Step 7: Pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam
Schedule and pass the New Hampshire Journeyman Electrician Exam administered by a state-approved examination provider, such as PSI. The exam fee is $100. The exam tests knowledge of NEC regulations, electrical theory, and practical problem-solving skills.
Step 8: Gain Work Experience as a Licensed Journeyman
Accumulate additional work experience as a journeyman electrician. This step is critical if you intend to advance your career further. Working under the guidance of a master electrician provides invaluable practical experience and proficient skill development.
Step 9: Pursue a Master Electrician License
After gaining several years of experience as a journeyman, you can apply for a Master Electrician License in New Hampshire. Meeting the minimum requirement of 2,000 hours of journeyman experience is necessary. Submit the appropriate application with a $120 fee and documentation verifying your work experience.
Step 10: Pass the Master Electrician Exam
If your goal includes obtaining a Master Electrician License, sit for and pass the New Hampshire Master Electrician Exam. The fee for the master electrician exam is also $100. Success in this exam allows for greater independence in your practice and the opportunity to manage larger projects.
For the most current information and updates, refer to the NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. This site provides valuable resources and contact information to ensure compliance with state-specific regulations and procedures.