How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Arizona: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking for a job that pays well and gives you the chance to use hands-on technical skills? In Arizona, getting a license as an electrician might be the perfect fit for you. Now is also a great time to become an electrician in Arizona because, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Arizona saw 17,640 employments in 2023 and an average hourly wage of $28.57 per hour. For every 1000 jobs created in Arizona, almost 6 are for electricians. This means there is plenty of opportunity to find work as an electrician in the state.

This complete guide will show you the steps you need to take to become an electrician in Arizona. It will give you the information you need to get your career started right away.

Why Choose a Career as an Electrician in Arizona?

Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. They work in many different environments, from residential homes to large industrial facilities. Key skills include problem-solving, technical knowledge, and manual dexterity. Electricians must also understand electrical codes and safety regulations so that their crucial work is safe and compliant.

Before diving into the steps, let's consider why becoming an electrician in Arizona is an excellent career choice:

• Job Security: The demand for skilled electricians remains strong, offering stable employment opportunities.
• Competitive Pay: Electricians often enjoy above-average salaries, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
• Diverse Work Environments: From residential homes to industrial complexes, your skills will be needed in various settings.
• Opportunity for Advancement: With experience, you can advance to supervisory roles or even start your own electrical contracting business.

Now, let's look at the steps to becoming a licensed electrician in Arizona.

1. Meet the Basic Educational Requirements

To start your journey as an electrician in Arizona, you need a high school diploma or GED. Courses in mathematics, physics, and shop can provide a strong foundation. Many aspiring electricians choose to attend a vocational-technical school or community college to gain more in-depth knowledge of electrical systems, safety codes, and blueprint reading.

2. Enroll in an Apprenticeship Program

An apprenticeship is a crucial step in becoming an electrician. It combines classroom learning with hands-on training, allowing you to earn while you learn.

Aspiring electricians can jumpstart their careers through apprenticeship programs that offer the unique advantage of earning while learning. Two notable programs providing this opportunity are:

An apprenticeship is crucial for becoming an electrician. In Arizona, you'll need to complete:

• 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
• 900 hours of classroom instruction

Here are a few apprenticeship program you may consider enrolling in Arizona:

Tucson Electrical Joint Apprenticeship & Training Program

This program offers a comprehensive apprenticeship experience that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training.

Benefits include:

• No tuition costs for classroom instruction
• 8,000 hours of on-the-job training
• Progressive wage scale
• Retirement plans and health care benefits
• Safe working conditions and safety training

Electrical Training Alliance

This national program supports apprentices and instructors in the electrical trade.

Benefits include:

• Core curriculum for a well-rounded skill set
• Access to specialized trade skills
• Ongoing support for instructors
• Annual National Training Institute trade show for networking and education

Both programs have a structured path for new electricians to enter the field, offering paid training and a clear route to becoming a skilled journeyman. This approach lets apprentices get real-world experience while also making money, which makes the switch to a career in electrical work both possible and financially feasible.

3. Complete Your Electrician Apprenticeship

During your apprenticeship, you'll:

• Learn electrical theory and practical applications
• Understand electrical codes and safety regulations
• Develop problem-solving skills
• Gain hands-on experience with many different types of electrical systems

4. Prepare for Licensing

Unlike some states, Arizona doesn't issue journeyman licenses. Instead, you'll need to obtain a contractor's license to work independently. Here's what you need to do:

1. Gain Additional Experience: After your apprenticeship, continue working to broaden your skills and knowledge.
2. Apply for the Licensing Exam: Register with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
3. Pass the Required Exams: You must pass both the business management and trade exams to qualify for a electrical contractor license.

Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll receive your contractor’s license, which allows you to work independently, bid on projects, and start your own electrical contracting business.

5.  Participate in Continuing Education and Additional Certifications

Arizona does not require continuing education prior to each renewal but because the electrical industry is constantly evolving, you can stay competitive by:

• Attending workshops and seminars
• Pursuing additional certifications (e.g., in solar power or automation systems)
• Staying up to date on the latest electrical codes and technologies

Arizona has reciprocity agreements with California, Nevada, and Utah.  Which means once you’re recognized as a licensed electrician in Arizona you can also work in these nearby states without re-taking any exams or re-licensing.

Becoming an electrician in Arizona requires dedication and a commitment to learning but all of the hard work you put in is well worth it. You can even be paid to learn on the job and the career offers stability and a way to climb the ladder of experience and compensation. By following the steps in this guide and meeting the necessary requirements, you can build a successful career as an electrician in Arizona.