Florida is one of the most popular states in America for people looking to start a new career as an electrician. With its booming economy and many construction projects underway, there are plenty of opportunities for electricians in Florida. In this article, we will provide a full guide on how to become an electrician in Florida. We will answer common questions about the licensing process, job market, and training requirements. We will also provide useful tips on how to get started in this exciting field!
Do Electricians Need to Get Certified in Florida?
Electricians are responsible for ensuring that electrical equipment and devices are safe to use and operate correctly. So, if you’re thinking about becoming an electrician in Florida, the first question you need to ask is: do electricians need to be certified in Florida?
The short answer is yes, electricians in Florida are required to be certified. There are two terms that refer to licensed electricians in Florida: “certified” and “registered” electricians. “Certified” electricians will be able to work as an electrician everywhere in the state, while “registered” electricians are only allowed to work in one jurisdiction. [1], [2], [3]
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician
A path to becoming a certified electrician in Florida can be long and difficult, but the rewards are great. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of becoming a certified electrician.
You will be able to do your job legally
The first and most obvious benefit of becoming a certified electrician is that you will be able to do your job legally. As we already mentioned, in order to work as an electrician in Florida, you must have a valid certification from the state. Not only will this allow you to work without any legal issues, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that you are not breaking the law.
It’s a proof of your expertise and skill
The process of becoming a certified electrician is not an easy one. It requires years of training and experience before you can even take the certification exam. Once you’ve passed the exam, you are officially recognized as an expert in your field. This can be a great asset when it comes to finding a job or negotiating your salary.
It will give you a protection
As a certified electrician, you’ll be able to work independently and have a greater chance of being hired by an electrical contractor. The certification will also help protect you from public liability claims should something go wrong with the electrical work you’ve carried out.
In addition to protecting you and your job, your clients will also be better off if you’re a certified electrician. This is because they can be certain that you know what you’re doing and that you have the skills to carry out the work safely.
You will have an advantage on the job market
The electrician trade is one that is always in demand. Licensed electricians are needed to work on new construction projects, as well as to maintain and repair existing electrical systems.
When employers see that you have a valid certification, they will know that you are a qualified electrician and they will be more likely to hire you over someone who does not have a certification. This can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
You will have higher earning potential
As a certified electrician, you will have the potential to earn a higher wage than non certified electricians.
You will be able to work independently
Once you become a certified electrician, you will be able to work independently as your own boss or start your own electrical business. You will no longer need to work under the supervision of a journeyman or master electrician. [1]
What Do I Need to Become a Licensed Electrician in Florida
Now that we’ve discussed some of the benefits of becoming a licensed electrician in Florida, let’s talk about what you need to do in order to become one.
Be at least 20 years old
The first requirement is that you must be at least 20 years old. This is the age at which you will be able to take the journeyman electrician exam, which is required for licensure. You, however, can join apprenticeships already at 18 years old.
Choose between certifications and trade school
The first step is to decide whether you want to attend trade school or get certified. In order to become licensed as an electrician in Florida, you must have your certification from the state. The process for getting your certification will vary depending on which level of electrician you wish to become.
Trade schools are another option for those who want to become electricians. Trade schools can provide you with the necessary education and training to become an electrician, but they typically do not offer certification. If you choose to attend trade school, you will need to get your certification after completing your schooling.
The downside of trade school is that it can be expensive. Tuition for trade schools can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. If you’re not sure whether you want to become an electrician, attending trade school may not be the best option for you.
The process for getting your certification is typically less expensive than trade school, and it will allow you to get started working as an electrician more quickly.
Get your high school diploma or GED
The next step is to get your high school diploma or GED. In order to become a licensed electrician in Florida, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. There are a few different ways to get your high school diploma or GED. You can attend a traditional high school, take classes online, or take a GED prep course.
University degree is not a must, however it will give you an edge over other candidates. If you have a degree in electrical engineering, this will be very helpful.
Gain necessary working experience
Obviously you will need to gain the necessary working experience. In order to become a licensed electrician in Florida, you must have at least four years of working experience. This experience can be gained through an apprenticeship, working as a journeyman electrician, or working in the electrical field in another capacity.
Apprenticeship programs are typically four years long, and they combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. During your apprenticeship, you’ll learn about electrical theory, local building codes, and safety procedures. You’ll also get hands-on experience working with electrical systems.
Apprenticeship programs are the best way to prepare for a career as an electrician. Not only will you receive training from experienced professionals, but you’ll also get paid while you’re learning. At this point you can try working as an apprentice electrician.
An apprentice electrician typically works for an electrical contractor, although some larger companies may have their own in-house training programs.
Apprentice electricians must complete formal classroom training as well as on-the-job training before they can take the journeyman electrician examination and become licensed. The length of time it takes to complete an apprenticeship varies by state, but is typically four to five years.
In order to be accepted into an apprenticeship program, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass an entrance exam. Some programs may also require that you have completed some basic coursework in mathematics and physics.
Once you have been accepted into an apprenticeship program, you will be required to complete a certain number of hours of on-the-job training as well as classroom instruction. The on-the-job training will typically last for two years, after which you will take a journeyman electrician examination in order to become licensed.
Take the journeyman certification exam
The Journeyman Electrician Exam is a four-hour, open-book test that covers electrical theory, the National Electrical Code and Florida-specific laws and rules. The exam is offered by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
The journeyman electrician examination is a closed-book test that covers the following topics:
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- OSHA standards
- State and local building codes
- Basic electrical theory
- Electrical safety
- Tools and equipment
- Materials
- Print reading
- Conduit bending
Journeyman electricians are expected to know how to safely install and maintain electrical systems in compliance with all applicable codes. The NEC is the most important reference for the journeyman electrician exam, as it contains the latest safe installation practices for electrical work. Most states have adopted the NEC as their primary electrical code, so journeyman electricians need to be familiar with it.
To take the Journeyman Electrician Exam, you must first complete an approved four-year apprenticeship program or have at least 8,000 hours of experience working as an electrician. Once you pass the exam, you will be issued a Journeyman Electrician license, which allows you to work independently on electrical projects.
To make sure you fit the requirements, you should contact your local county or city licensing office to find out what specific requirements they have in place.
As a journeyman electrician, you will be responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. In most cases, they are able to work independently, but usually they are employed by electrical contractors.
Obtain a Master Electrician Certification
Once you have obtained your Journeyman Electrician license, you may want to consider obtaining your Master Electrician certification. This is the highest level of certification available for electricians, and it allows you to work independently on any size electrical project.
The exam is administered by the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and is required for electricians who wish to obtain a master electrician license in Florida.
In order to take the Master Electrician Exam, you must first meet the following prerequisites:
- You must be at least 18 years of age.
- You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- You must have a few years of working experience as a journeyman electrician.
- You must have completed an electrical apprenticeship program.
- You must have passed the journeyman electrician exam.
Once you have met all of the prerequisites, you can then register for the Master Electrician Exam through the IAEI. The examination fee is $200 and the registration process can be completed online.
The Master Electrician Exam is a four-hour long, open-book exam that consists of 100+ multiple-choice questions. The questions are based on the NEC and cover a variety of topics, including:
- Applications and calculations
- Wiring methods and materials
- Equipment for general use
- Special occupancies and equipment
- Special conditions
- Communications systems
There are three general sections:
- Florida Safety Code
- Worker Safety
- Business Administration
In order to pass the Master Electrician Exam, you must correctly answer at least 70% of the questions. The minimum pass percentage in each section should be no less than 60%.
One of the best ways to prepare for the Master Electrician Exam is to take a review course offered by the IAEI. The review course covers all of the topics that will be on the exam and provides students with practice questions and mock exams. The course fee is $595 and includes all materials, as well as the exam fee.
Another great way to prepare for the examination is to use the help of one of the providers of online electrician courses. These courses are designed to help students master the material and pass the examination. The cost of these courses can vary, but they are typically much less expensive than the review course offered by the IAEI.
Once you have completed a review course, you should then begin studying the NEC. It is important that you have a thorough understanding of the code before taking the examination.
After you become a Master Electrician, you will be able to work independently, without the need for direct supervision from a licensed contractor. You will also be able to take on more complex projects and oversee other electricians working under you.
Don’t forget to renew your certifications
Technologies and practices change rapidly in the electrical industry, which is why it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest changes. In Florida, electricians are required to renew their certification every two years in order to maintain their license.
The easiest way to renew your certification is to take an approved continuing education course. These courses are offered by a variety of organizations, including community colleges, trade schools, and online providers.
Think about becoming an Electrician Contractor
If you are interested in running your own business, then you may want to think about becoming an electrical contractor. In Florida, electrical contractors are required to have a valid state license in order to operate legally.
The benefits of becoming an electrician contractor are many. As your own boss, you’ll have control over your work schedule and be able to take on as much or as little work as you want. You’ll also have the potential to earn a much higher income than electricians who work for someone else.
However, before you can start reaping the benefits of being an electrician contractor, you’ll need to obtain a few things. Here’s what you’ll need to do to become an electrician contractor in Florida:
- Get a business license from the City or County in which you’ll be working
- Obtain workers’ compensation insurance
- Get liability insurance
- Become bonded
- Have your electrical contractor license issued by the state of Florida
- Register your business with the Department of Revenue
- Complete an IRS W-9 form
- Keep your business records up to date and accurate
Additionally, in order to obtain an electrician contractor license in Florida, you must first show proof of insurance, a valid business license, and registration. Once all of this information has been submitted, you will be able to start your business. [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6]
Types of Contractor Licenses in Florida
Lastly, we will talk about the types of contractor licenses in Florida. In order to become an electrical contractor, you will need to obtain a state license. The type of license you’ll need will depend on the size and type of the projects you plan on working on.
Registered Electrical Contractor
In the state of Florida, a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) is defined as a contractor who installs, alters, services, repairs or maintains electrical systems and equipment for public use. Registered Electrical Contractors in Florida must have a local competency certificate or business tax receipt authorizing them to perform electrical work in their respective counties.
Alarm System Contractor
An alarm system contractor installs, repairs, and maintains security systems in both commercial and residential buildings. In some cases, alarm system contractors may also design custom security solutions for their clients. Alarm system contractors must have a strong understanding of electrical systems and wiring in order to properly install and maintain security systems. Just like Registered Electrical Contractors, Alarm System Contractors require a local competency card.
Electrical Specialty Contractor
Electrical Specialty Contractors work, as you have guessed, in specialized areas of the electrical industry. This can be in specific types of equipment, buildings, distribution systems or components. They have a great deal of experience and knowledge in their particular specialty area.
And because of this, the requirements to become an Electrical Specialty Contractor are a little different than those of a regular Electrician.
For starters, you’ll need to pass an Florida Electrical Contractor exam. This exam includes a business and law portion, in addition to the trade and safety portion.
You’ll also need to provide information about yourself, your experience, and your business. After you’ve met all the requirements and have been approved by the state, you’ll be issued an Electrical Specialty Contractor license.
Only entrepreneurs with a net worth of at least $5,000 are allowed to apply for this license type. So if you are ready to take your business to the next level, becoming an Electrical Specialty Contractor is the way to go. [1], [2]
FAQ
What electrician certificates are available in Florida?
There are two main types of electrician certificates available in Florida: the Journeyman Electrician certificate and the Master Electrician certificate.
To become a Journeyman Electrician in Florida, you must have at least four years of experience working as an apprentice under a Master Electrician. You must also pass an examination administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
To become a Master Electrician in Florida, you must have at least eight years of experience working as an apprentice under a Master Electrician. You must also pass an examination administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
What skills do I need to become an electrician?
To become an electrician, you will need to have strong mathematical skills. You should be able to calculate voltage, current, and resistance. Additionally, you should be familiar with Ohm’s Law. You will also need strong problem-solving skills to be able to troubleshoot electrical problems. Furthermore, manual dexterity is important as you will be working with small wires and components. Finally, it is important to have good customer service skills as you will be working with customers on a daily basis.
What is the difference between Journeyman Electrician and Master Electrician?
The main difference between a Journeyman Electrician and a Master Electrician is that a Journeyman can only work under the supervision of a Master, while a Master can work independently. In order to become a Journeyman, you must first complete an apprenticeship program and pass a journeyman electrician exam. Once you have done this, you will be able to apply for your Florida state electrical contractor license.
In order to become a Master Electrician, you must either have at least four years of experience as a Journeyman Electrician or complete a two-year technical college program. After completing one of these requirements, you must then pass a master electrician exam.
How much does a licensed electrician make in Florida?
A licensed electrician in Florida can make a very good living. The average salary for a journeyman electrician in Florida is $46,000 per year. However, electricians who work in urban areas can make much more than that. For example, an electrician working in Miami may make $60,000 per year. And an electrician working in Tampa may make $58,000 per year.
How do I prepare for the journeyman electrician certification exam?
The journeyman electrician certification exam is divided into two parts, with the first part covering general electrical knowledge and the second part covering Florida-specific electrical laws and regulations. For the first part of the exam, we recommend studying from a nationally recognized electrical code book, such as the National Electrical Code (NEC). The NEC is available for purchase from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website or from many major bookstores. For the second part of the exam, you will need to study the Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code, which are available online for free from the Florida legislature’s website.
Be sure to double check the requirements for taking the exam with your local testing agency, as some agencies may have additional requirements, such as a minimum number of hours of on-the-job training. There’s plenty of programs out there and you should have no problem finding one that fits your schedule and learning style.
Useful Video: Florida Electrician License – What You need to get started
Conclusion
Becoming an electrician in Florida is a great way to start a new career. With the demand for qualified electricians at an all-time high, there has never been a better time to enter the field.
As you can see, there’s quite a lot of work that goes into becoming an electrician. However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, you’ll be rewarded with a stable career that offers good pay and plenty of job security.
First thing that will play a major role in your success are your personal skills and traits. Are you good with your hands? Do you have a knack for understanding complex systems? Are you patient and detail-oriented? If so, then a career in electrical work may be a perfect fit for you.
Next, you’ll need to obtain the necessary education and training. If you’re ready to start your journey towards becoming an electrician in Florida, the first thing you should do is find an apprenticeship program. Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you can start preparing for exams in order to receive your certification. With your certification in hand, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career as an electrician.
Once you obtain your certifications, don’t forget to renew them every two years. This will ensure that you stay up-to-date on the latest changes in the electrician field and that you remain qualified to work in Florida. Thanks for reading and good luck!
References
- https://www.servicetitan.com/licensing/electrician/florida
- https://asktheelectricalguy.com/how-to-become-an-electrician-in-florida/
- https://www.ftccollege.edu/trade-blog/electrician-school-to-become-certified/
- https://www.betterteam.com/electrician-job-description
- https://www.mometrix.com/academy/journeyman-electricians-exam/
- https://esasafe.com/contractors/me-exam/