Electrician License Requirements in West Virginia
| Licensing Authority | West Virginia Division of Labor (WVDOL) |
| License Type | Journeyman Electrician / Master Electrician |
| Experience Required | 8,000 hours (4 years) of above-ground electrical work for Journeyman; 10,000 hours (5 years) for Master; 4,000 hours (2 years) for Specialty |
| Education Substitute | Accredited electrical program may substitute for a portion of experience hours |
| Exam Required | Yes — Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam |
| Bond Required | No |
| Insurance | General liability: recommended. Workers comp: required |
| Continuing Education | Not required |
| Processing Time | 4-6 weeks |
Fee Breakdown
| Exam Fee | $25 |
| Initial License Fee | $25 |
| Est. Initial Total | $50 |
Renewal: $25 every 2 years
Exam Requirements
Journeyman/Master Electrician Exam
Pass: 70%
2020 National Electrical Code (NEC)Electrical theorySafety practices
Exam provider: Prov Exams
License Tiers
Apprentice Electrician
Entry level — must work under supervision
Exam: Not required
Journeyman Electrician
8,000 hours (4 years) above-ground electrical work
Exam: Required
Master Electrician
10,000 hours (5 years) above-ground electrical work
Exam: Required
Specialty Electrician
4,000 hours (2 years) in specialty area
Exam: Required
License Reciprocity
This state has reciprocity agreements with 2 states. You may be able to skip the trade exam if you hold a valid license from one of these states.
tennesseeReciprocity for Electrical, General Building, HVAC, Multi-Family, Plumbing, Residential, and Sprinkler/Fire Protection classifications. Must pass WV Business and Law exam. Must meet financial and insurance requirements and provide official license verification from Tennessee.
virginiaReciprocity for multiple contractor classifications; must pass WV Business and Law exam and meet bonding/insurance requirements
Notes
- All exams are open book based on the 2020 NEC
- Exam fee is non-refundable
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a electrician license in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia requires a statewide electrician license through the West Virginia Division of Labor.
How much does a electrician license cost in West Virginia?
The estimated initial cost is $50, including application, exam, and license fees.
Data last verified: 2026-04-02 | Source: WVDOL