Electrician License Requirements in Maryland
| Licensing Authority | Maryland State Board of Master Electricians (SBME) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Electrician |
| Experience Required | Master: 7 years under a master electrician. Journeyman: 4 years (7,000 hours) under a master electrician, or completion of a Board-approved apprenticeship program. Experience must cover all types of electrical equipment and apparatuses. |
| Education Substitute | The Board may allow up to 3 years credit toward master electrician experience for completion of a formal course of study or professional training in electrical installation. A 4-year electrical apprenticeship program satisfies the journeyman requirement. |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Electrician Exam + Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: required. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 10 hours every 2 years (minimum 5 hours classroom instruction) |
| Processing Time | 4-8 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Exam Fee | $65 |
| Initial License Fee | $190 |
| Est. Initial Total | $280 |
Renewal: $25 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Electrician Exam
Master Electrician Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Apprentice Electrician
Entry level — must work under master electrician supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
4 years (7,000 hours) of electrical work under a master electrician, OR completion of a Board-approved apprenticeship
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
7 years of electrical work under a master electrician, OR formal education credit up to 3 years + remaining experience
Exam: Required
Notes
- MHIC license also required if performing residential home improvement electrical work
- 10 CE hours per renewal cycle, at least 5 must be classroom-based
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician license in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland requires a statewide electrician license through the Maryland State Board of Master Electricians.
How much does an electrician license cost in Maryland?
The estimated initial cost is $280, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an electrician license in Maryland?
Master: 7 years under a master electrician. Journeyman: 4 years (7,000 hours) under a master electrician, or completion of a Board-approved apprenticeship program. Experience must cover all types of electrical equipment and apparatuses. Education substitute: The Board may allow up to 3 years credit toward master electrician experience for completion of a formal course of study or professional training in electrical installation. A 4-year electrical apprenticeship program satisfies the journeyman requirement.
What exams are required for an electrician license in Maryland?
You must pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam and Master Electrician Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
How long does it take to get an electrician license in Maryland?
Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for electricians in Maryland?
Yes, 10 hours per every 2 years (minimum 5 hours classroom instruction) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: SBME