How to Become an Electrician in Texas

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

Quick Facts

Median Salary: $57,540/year
Job Outlook: 12% growth (2024-2034)
Licensing Required: Yes
Continuing Ed: 4 hours/annual

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

⚠️ Important Note for Texas

Texas requires statewide licensing. Local jurisdictions may have additional permit requirements.

Electrician License Requirements in Texas

Licensing Authority

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)

Phone: (512) 463-6599

Website: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/

Official Source: https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/electricians/

License Types & Requirements

Electrical Apprentice

  • Exam Required: No
  • Application Fee: $20
  • Requirements: Must register with TDLR and work under licensed electrician

Journeyman Electrician

  • Required Hours: 8,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $40
  • Requirements: 8,000 hours experience, pass journeyman exam

Master Electrician

  • Required Hours: 12,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $55
  • Requirements: 2 years as journeyman (4,000 hours), pass master exam

Residential Wireman

  • Required Hours: 4,000 hours of supervised work experience
  • Exam Required: Yes - PSI
  • Application Fee: $40
  • Requirements: 4,000 hours experience, limited to residential work

Path to Becoming an Electrician in Texas

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 Texas, 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 Texas take 4-5 years to complete.

Step 4: Pass Licensing Exam

Study for and pass the PSI journeyman electrician exam.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Submit your application to Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) with proof of hours, exam scores, and fees.

Electrician Salary in Texas

Entry Level: $39,180/year
Median Salary: $57,540/year
Experienced: $76,940/year

Source: BLS May 2024

Major Cities Hiring Electricians in Texas

  • Houston
  • San Antonio
  • Dallas
  • Austin
  • Fort Worth

Continuing Education Requirements

To maintain your electrician license in Texas, you must complete 4 hours of continuing education every annual.

Start Your Electrician Career in Texas

Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) 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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