In short
Most people take four to five years to become a licensed journeyman electrician, usually through a paid apprenticeship that combines about 2,000 hours of work a year with classroom instruction. Trade school beforehand can take several months to two years and may count toward some hours, depending on the state and program. Master electrician usually takes a few more years of journeyman experience and another exam.
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Optional trade school or pre-apprenticeship | A few months to 2 years |
| Apprenticeship | 4 to 5 years |
| Journeyman exam | After required hours |
| Master electrician | Often about 2 more years, varies by state |
| Middle pay | $63,190 a year, roughly $30.38 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then apprenticeship |
| People in the trade | About 821,000 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 9.2% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 72,700, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Can you do it faster?
Some states give partial credit for school or military electrical training. Ask your state board and apprenticeship sponsor what they accept before you count on it.
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Straight answers
Can I become an electrician in two years?
You can finish a school program in that time, but most states require more supervised hours before a journeyman license.
Do I get paid during the apprenticeship?
Yes. Apprentices earn wages that rise as they progress.
How many hours is an electrical apprenticeship?
Often around 8,000 hours of work plus classroom hours, though programs vary.