Get the AppHow to Become an Electrician in California (2026)
Written by a licensed IBEW journeyman electrician
Becoming a licensed electrician in California starts the same way as the rest of the country: an apprenticeship, then a journeyman license wherever your state or city requires one. Who issues that license differs a lot by state.
The Path in California
- High school diploma or GED + 1 year algebra
- Apply to an IBEW local in California or a non-union apprenticeship
- Take the NJATC aptitude test (IBEW route)
- Complete the interview, get on the eligibility list
- Complete the 4-5 year apprenticeship
- Get your journeyman license where California or your city requires one
California Licensing
California's equivalent of a journeyman license is the General Electrician certification from the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement. You need 8,000 hours of on-the-job work or an approved apprenticeship. The exam has 100 questions and 4 hours 30 minutes. You need 70% to pass. The exam fee is $100.
California journeyman license: exam, hours and fees
Reciprocity
Reciprocity rules vary; confirm with the licensing board or city.
IBEW Locals in California
IBEW Local 6
San Francisco · San Francisco Bay Area
IBEW Local 11
Los Angeles · Los Angeles
IBEW Local 332
San Jose · Silicon Valley
IBEW Local 569
San Diego · San Diego
Exam Costs & Schedules
- Journeyman exam fees vary — check with your state board
- Most states use PSI or Prometric as exam providers
- Exams typically include 80-100 questions over 3-4 hours
- NEC code section is the most heavily weighted
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an electrician in California?
In California, the typical union path is a 4-5 year IBEW apprenticeship, then a journeyman license exam where the state or city requires one. Total time from first application to journeyman is usually 5-8 years.
How much do electricians make in California?
Electrician pay in California varies by region and union status. IBEW journeyman scale tends to be higher than non-union shop rates. See our electrician salary by state page for current ranges.
Do I need a license to be an electrician in California?
California's equivalent of a journeyman license is the General Electrician certification from the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement. You need 8,000 hours of on-the-job work or an approved apprenticeship. The exam has 100 questions and 4 hours 30 minutes. You need 70% to pass. The exam fee is $100.
Does California accept out-of-state electrician licenses?
Reciprocity rules vary; confirm with the licensing board or city.
Related Resources
Michael Briglio
IBEW Local 134 Journeyman · Licensed Contractor · IL Educator
Michael started in the IBEW at 18 and made foreman as a 3rd-year apprentice. Thirteen years in, he’s a Local 134 journeyman, a licensed electrical contractor, a licensed Illinois teacher, and OSHA 30 and EPA 608 certified. He teaches a federally recognized pre-apprenticeship on the south side of Chicago — where he’s helped 100+ students get into the IBEW. He built Sparky AI around exactly what the NJATC exam tests and what trips people up. Prep with this and you walk in ready.
Facts on this page trace to primary sources or first-hand IBEW Local 134 experience — see sources & methodology.
