Electrician License Requirements in Kentucky
| Licensing Authority | Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Electrical Division (DHBC) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Electrician |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 4 years verifiable experience + approved training course, OR 6 years experience without training. Master: 6 years verifiable experience + approved training course, OR 8 years experience without training. An additional 2 years may substitute for the training course at each level. |
| Education Substitute | An approved electrical training course acceptable to the DHBC can reduce the experience requirement by 2 years. Technical school or college programs in electrical technology may qualify. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Electrician Exam + Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 6 hours every 2 years (per renewal cycle) |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $50 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Journeyman application | $50 |
| Master Electrician application | $100 |
| Journeyman exam fee | $100 |
| Master exam fee | $100 |
| Journeyman renewal (biennial) | $100 |
| Master renewal (biennial) | $200 |
| Est. Initial Total | $800 |
Renewal: $100 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Electrician Exam
Master Electrician Exam
Exam provider: PearsonVUE
License Tiers
Electrical Apprentice
Entry level — must register, work under licensed electrician supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
4 years of verifiable electrical experience plus approved training course, OR 6 years of verifiable experience without training
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
6 years of verifiable electrical experience plus approved training course, OR 8 years of verifiable experience without training
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 4 states. View full reciprocity details — You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
Notes
- Open-book exam format
- Exams administered by PearsonVUE
- 6 hours CE must be from a DHBC-approved provider
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician license in Kentucky?
Yes, Kentucky requires a statewide electrician license through the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction — Electrical Division.
How much does an electrician license cost in Kentucky?
The estimated initial cost is $150, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an electrician license in Kentucky?
Journeyman: 4 years verifiable experience + approved training course, OR 6 years experience without training. Master: 6 years verifiable experience + approved training course, OR 8 years experience without training. An additional 2 years may substitute for the training course at each level. Education substitute: An approved electrical training course acceptable to the DHBC can reduce the experience requirement by 2 years. Technical school or college programs in electrical technology may qualify.
What exams are required for an electrician license in Kentucky?
You must pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam and Master Electrician Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PearsonVUE.
Does Kentucky have electrician license reciprocity?
Yes, Kentucky has reciprocity agreements with 4 states that may apply to electricians. Licensed contractors from these states may be eligible to skip certain exams or have an expedited application process.
How long does it take to get an electrician license in Kentucky?
Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for electricians in Kentucky?
Yes, 6 hours per every 2 years (per renewal cycle) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DHBC