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Electrician License Requirements in Vermont

Licensing AuthorityDepartment of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety (DFS)
License TypeJourneyman Electrician / Master Electrician
Experience Required8,000 hours of full-time electrical work experience under a licensed electrician plus 576 hours of classroom-based training for Journeyman; Master requires 2 years as licensed Journeyman
Education SubstituteCompletion of an accredited electrical program may satisfy classroom hour requirements
Exam RequiredYes — Journeyman Electrician Exam + Electrical Contractor Exam
Bond RequiredNo
InsuranceGeneral liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees
Continuing Education15 hours 2 years
Processing Time4-6 weeks

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee$80
Exam Fee$75
Initial License Fee$80
Est. Initial Total$235

Renewal: $80 every 2 years

Exam Requirements

Journeyman Electrician Exam

90 questions4 hoursPass: 70%
National Electrical Code (NEC)Electrical theorySafety practices

Electrical Contractor Exam

105 questions5 hoursPass: 70%
National Electrical Code (NEC)Vermont electrical rulesBusiness practices

Exam provider: PSI

License Tiers

Apprentice Electrician

Entry level — must work under licensed Journeyman or Master

Exam: Not required

Journeyman Electrician

8,000 hours on-the-job plus 576 hours classroom instruction

Exam: Required

Master Electrician

Must hold Vermont Journeyman license for at least 2 years

Exam: Required

License Reciprocity

This state has reciprocity agreements with 2 states. View full reciprocity detailsYou may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.

new hampshireVermont and New Hampshire have reciprocal recognition for licensed electricians through NERA
maineReciprocal recognition for licensed electricians through NERA

Notes

  • Vermont participates in the National Electrical Reciprocal Alliance (NERA)
  • 15 hours of NEC code-based CE required for each renewal cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an electrician license in Vermont?

Yes, Vermont requires a statewide electrician license through the Department of Public Safety, Division of Fire Safety.

How much does an electrician license cost in Vermont?

The estimated initial cost is $235, including application, exam, and license fees.

What experience do I need for an electrician license in Vermont?

8,000 hours of full-time electrical work experience under a licensed electrician plus 576 hours of classroom-based training for Journeyman; Master requires 2 years as licensed Journeyman Education substitute: Completion of an accredited electrical program may satisfy classroom hour requirements

What exams are required for an electrician license in Vermont?

You must pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam and Electrical Contractor Exam exams. A passing score of 70% is required. Exams are administered by PSI.

Does Vermont have electrician license reciprocity?

Yes, Vermont has reciprocity agreements with 2 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 Vermont?

Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks after submitting a complete application.

Is continuing education required for electricians in Vermont?

Yes, 15 hours per 2 years is required for license renewal.

Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DFS