Becoming a licensed electrician in Illinois has numerous benefits. There are intangible benefits such as interesting work and earning the respect of your customers. And there are tangible benefits such great pay, benefits and growth opportunities. One other tangible benefit is ease of entry. Here we explain what you need to do to become a licensed journeyman electrician in Illinois.
The Basics
You must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or GED with at least a “C” in a high school algebra class
- Be physically capable of performing the work (which may be strenuous)
- Have reliable transportation (which may be provided by the people sponsoring your apprenticeship)
Apprenticeships
The initial step is to serve an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are available through union programs offered by organizations such as the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) or International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. There are also non-union programs available. Apprenticeships typically include 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 500 to 800 hours of classroom instruction. The sponsoring union or company usually pays for classroom instruction, which includes topics such as building codes, electrical theory and safety.
The 8,000 hours of work experience can include:
- Assisting journeyman electricians and electrical contractors
- Installing, maintaining and repairing electrical systems
- Operating a company vehicle
Note you will generally get paid while serving your apprenticeship.
Getting Licensed
After finishing your apprenticeship, you must take and pass the Illinois Electrical Licensing Exam, which costs about $100. And you must score 75% to pass. Exam topics include:
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Local electrical requirements
- Electrical wire safety
- OSHA regulations
Contact Ravinia Plumbing About Becoming an Electrician
If you are interested in becoming an electrician, Ravinia Plumbing is interested in talking with you. We offer interesting work, excellent compensation, and opportunities for advancement. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
