Electrician License Requirements in Virginia
| Licensing Authority | Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program (DPOR) |
| License Type | Journeyman / Master Electrician (Tradesman License) |
| Experience Required | Journeyman: 4 years practical experience + 240 hours formal vocational training (or sliding scale up to 6 years experience + 80 hours training). Master: 1 year as licensed VA journeyman, or 9 years verified practical experience. |
| Education Substitute | 2 years practical experience + associate degree or certificate from accredited program qualifies for journeyman |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman Electrician Exam + Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required with employees |
| Continuing Education | 3 hours 3 years (per renewal cycle) |
| Processing Time | ~30 days |
Fee Breakdown
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Exam Fee | $100 |
| Master exam fee | $125 |
| Est. Initial Total | $300 |
Renewal: $90 every 3 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman Electrician Exam
Master Electrician Exam
Exam provider: PSI
License Tiers
Journeyman Electrician
4 yrs experience + 240 hrs training; OR 5 yrs + 160 hrs; OR 6 yrs + 80 hrs; OR 2 yrs + associate degree
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
1 year as licensed VA journeyman; OR 9 years verified practical experience
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 6 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
- Exams are open-book — NEC 2020 codebook permitted
- Tradesman license is for individuals; to operate a business, a separate Class A/B/C contractor license with ELE specialty is also required
- Virginia adopted the 2020 NEC as the reference code
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an electrician license in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia requires a statewide electrician license through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Board for Contractors — Tradesmen Program.
How much does an electrician license cost in Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $175, including application, exam, and license fees.
What experience do I need for an electrician license in Virginia?
Journeyman: 4 years practical experience + 240 hours formal vocational training (or sliding scale up to 6 years experience + 80 hours training). Master: 1 year as licensed VA journeyman, or 9 years verified practical experience. Education substitute: 2 years practical experience + associate degree or certificate from accredited program qualifies for journeyman
What exams are required for an electrician license in Virginia?
You must pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam and Master Electrician Exam exams. A passing score of 70% (Journeyman: 49/70; Master: 63/90) is required. Exams are administered by PSI.
Does Virginia have electrician license reciprocity?
Yes, Virginia has reciprocity agreements with 6 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 Virginia?
Processing time is typically ~30 days after submitting a complete application.
Is continuing education required for electricians in Virginia?
Yes, 3 hours per 3 years (per renewal cycle) is required for license renewal.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: DPOR