Electrician License Requirements in District of Columbia
| Licensing Authority | Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (BIT/DLCP) |
| License Type | Journeyman Electrician / Master Electrician |
| Experience Required | 8,000 hours (4 years) as apprentice for Journeyman. Master requires Journeyman license plus 4 additional years as licensed Journeyman. Alternatively, EE degree plus 2 years practical experience certified by a licensed Master. |
| Education Substitute | Accredited electrical engineering degree substitutes for apprenticeship; must still have 2 years practical experience under a licensed Master |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | Yes — $5,000 |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $52 |
| Initial License Fee | $110 |
| Est. Initial Total | $162 |
Related & additional fees
Separate or ongoing costs — not included in the estimate above.
| Master initial license | $120 |
| Master renewal | $155 |
| Contractor renewal | $180 |
Renewal: $110 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam
Exam provider: PSI
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Apprentice Electrician
Entry level — must work under licensed Journeyman or Master
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
8,000 hours (4 years) as apprentice or degree + 2 years practical
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
Journeyman license plus 4 years as licensed Journeyman
Exam: Required
Master Electrician Limited (Low Voltage)
8,000 hours (4 years) in low-voltage systems
Exam: Required
Notes
- Licenses renewed in odd years
- DC does not require continuing education for electricians
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician license in District of Columbia?
Yes, District of Columbia requires a statewide electrician license through the Board of Industrial Trades, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection.
How much does an electrician license cost in District of Columbia?
The estimated initial cost is $162, including application, exam, and license fees. A $5,000 surety bond is also required.
What experience do I need for an electrician license in District of Columbia?
8,000 hours (4 years) as apprentice for Journeyman. Master requires Journeyman license plus 4 additional years as licensed Journeyman. Alternatively, EE degree plus 2 years practical experience certified by a licensed Master. Education substitute: Accredited electrical engineering degree substitutes for apprenticeship; must still have 2 years practical experience under a licensed Master
What exams are required for an electrician license in District of Columbia?
You must pass the Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam exam. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Do I need a bond for an electrician license in District of Columbia?
Yes, a $5,000 surety bond is required. $5,000 surety bond for electrical contractors
How long does it take to get an electrician license in District of Columbia?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for electricians in District of Columbia?
No, District of Columbia does not currently require continuing education for electrician license renewal.
Next steps
You know the requirements for electricians in District of Columbia— here's how to actually pass and apply.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: BIT/DLCP