How to Become an Electrician in Idaho

Complete requirements, licensing steps, and career outlook for electricians in Idaho

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $58,120/year
Job Outlook: 12% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 24 hours/triennial (3 years)

✓ Information verified from official sources (Last updated: 2025-01-27)

⚠️ Important Note for Idaho

Idaho uses NASCLA exams; reciprocity with other NASCLA states possible

Electrician License Requirements in Idaho

Licensing Authority

Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL)

Phone: (208) 334-3233

Website: https://dopl.idaho.gov/ele/

Official Source: https://dopl.idaho.gov/ele/ele-licensing/

License Types & Requirements

Electrical Apprentice

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $35
  • Requirements: Must register and maintain active apprentice registration

Journeyman Electrician

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - NASCLA/PSI
  • Application Fee: $75
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours + 4 years approved schooling OR 16,000 hours work experience, pass NASCLA exam

Master Electrician

  • Exam Required: Yes - NASCLA/PSI
  • Application Fee: $100
  • Requirements: Active journeyman license for 4 years, pass NASCLA master exam

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Idaho

Step 1: Complete High School Education

Earn a high school diploma or GED. Focus on math (especially algebra and trigonometry), physics, and shop classes if available.

Step 2: Enter an Apprenticeship Program

Apply to an apprenticeship program through a union (IBEW) or independent electrical contractor. In Idaho, you'll typically need 8000 hours of on-the-job training.

Step 3: Complete Required Hours

Work under supervision while logging your hours. Most apprenticeships in Idaho take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the NASCLA/PSI journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Idaho

Entry Level: $40,280/year
Median Salary: $58,120/year
Experienced: $76,940/year

Source: BLS May 2024

License Reciprocity

Idaho has reciprocity agreements with the following states:

  • NASCLA member states

This means if you're licensed in one of these states, you may be able to obtain a Idaho license with reduced requirements.

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Idaho

  • Boise
  • Meridian
  • Nampa
  • Idaho Falls
  • Caldwell

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Idaho, you must complete 24 hours of continuing education every triennial (3 years).

Start Your Electrician Career in Idaho

Contact the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) for application details and approved training programs.

Visit Licensing Board

Recommended Resources

📘
NFPA 70: NEC 2026 Required for most exams
📗
Ugly's Electrical References Quick reference guide
🔧
Klein Tools Apprentice Tool Set Essential hand tools

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