How to Become a Certified Electrician in New Jersey
- 1). Identify apprenticeship opportunities near you. Call local electricians' unions and ask about apprenticeship opportunities. Review apprenticeship opportunities available through the New Jersey Department of Labor (see Resources). Ask for apprenticeship application materials.
- 2). Complete your apprentice application. Take a basic qualifying exam for math, English and logic skills. Then wait to be matched with an apprenticeship opportunity. When you start your apprenticeship, you'll receive a partial wage and you'll begin classroom training.
- 3). Begin your apprenticeship. Classes will focus on electrical currents, wiring, interpreting blueprints, alternative energy, working with contractors and data systems. Most apprenticeships last four years and include 144 hours of classroom training and 2,000 labor hours per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As you progress through the internship, you'll earn more money.
- 4). Complete your apprenticeship training. Your sponsor organization will grant you a certificate of completion. Most allow you to move to the journeyman level and continue working. Whether you choose to stay with your sponsor or find a new job, New Jersey requires you to work for one year for a total of five years of experience.
- 5). Contact the Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors (see Resources). Ask for an application to become a certified or licensed electrician. To receive certification, you'll have to pass an exam and meet the criteria outlined in Step 4.
- 6). Complete the application. Once the Board of Examiners deems you're eligible, they'll provide you with information about upcoming exam dates so you can study for and pass your exam.
- 7). Take the qualifying exam. Pass your exam to receive certification in New Jersey.
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