In short
Most licensed trades follow a three-step ladder: apprentice, journeyman and master. You work a set number of supervised hours as an apprentice, pass a journeyman exam based on the code your area uses, then work more years before you can test for master and pull permits or run a business. States, and sometimes cities, set the hours and exams. Commercial driving is different: the CDL follows federal standards.
| Level | What it lets you do | How you usually get there |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (or trainee) | Work under supervision | Register with the state or enroll in an apprenticeship |
| Journeyman | Work without direct supervision | Years of documented hours plus a code exam |
| Master | Pull permits, supervise, often run a contracting business | More years as journeyman plus another exam |
License guides
Start counting your hours
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Straight answers
Do all states license electricians and plumbers?
Most states license them, but a few leave it to cities or counties. Your state board can tell you who licenses your trade.
Can I use my license in another state?
Sometimes. Some states have reciprocity agreements for certain license levels. Check both states' boards.
Is a certification the same as a license?
No. A license comes from a government agency. A certification comes from a testing or training organization.