When it comes to being a professional electrician in Washington, you must ensure you have all the necessary qualifications and licenses. The legal document allows you to bid and work on electrical projects, and it also enables you to protect yourself in the event of any issues that may arise during a job. This guide will discuss obtaining a Washington electrical license and what requirements you must meet to become certified.
Who Needs to Obtain a Washington Electrician License?
In the state of Washington, any person responsible for installing, repairing, or maintaining electrical wiring must obtain an electrician license. This includes anyone who works for a company as well as independent contractors.
Different Types of Electrician Licenses
To begin the electrician career, you need to apply and receive an electrical trainee certification from working while being supervised by a licensed electrician. The application fee is less than $45. After your application, you can now explore the below types of electrician licenses:
1. Journey or Specialty Electrician
After obtaining an electrical trainee certificate, you can apply for a journey or a specialty electrician license. This is the most common license type, allowing you to work as a professional electrician. The application fee for this license is $150, and you must pass an exam to receive it.
2. Telecommunications Contractor
You will need to obtain a telecommunications contractor license if you want to work on telecommunication systems, such as installing fiber optic, antenna, or coaxial cabling systems. This can be obtained after obtaining a journey or a specialty electrician license. This license has an hourly pay of $25 per hour.
3. Electrical Contractor
If you want to work on large-scale projects or manage electrical systems, you will need to receive an electrical contractor license. This license will allow you to bid, hire employees, and purchase materials for larger jobs than a journey or specialty electrician can handle. The fee for this license is $150, and you must pass an exam to receive it.
4. Electrical Administrator
An electrical administrator license is needed if you plan and want to hire and supervise electrical apprentices and staff. You will be responsible for ensuring they are properly trained and knowledgeable on all electrical regulations, codes, and safety procedures. Additionally, you will be responsible for managing the business’s day-to-day activities. The fee for this license is $150, and you must pass an exam to receive it.
5. Telecommunications Administrator
You will be a supervisor for the telecommunications staff and will be responsible for their training, development, and overall performance. You must ensure that the technicians are knowledgeable in their field and up to date on the latest equipment and technology. You will also be responsible for keeping track of inventory, maintaining records, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. The fee for this license is $150, and you must pass an exam to receive it.
6. Master Electrician
This type of license is the highest level of certification you can obtain. You will work on commercial and residential to install, maintain and repair electrical systems. You must have a strong knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and state and local codes to be a master electrician. You must also complete a rigorous journeyman program and demonstrate your expertise in the field to obtain this credential. With this license, you can charge a higher rate for your services and have access to more job opportunities.
How to Obtain Your Washington Electrician License
To obtain an electrician license, you must first complete the required education and training. This can be done through enrolling with RocketCert, an online electrician certification program. After completing the course, you will be required to take the state licensing exam. Once you have passed the exam, you can apply for your license and start working as a professional electrician in Washington State.
Conclusion
Getting your license as an electrician in Washington State can open up many opportunities for you. You don’t need to worry about going through lengthy courses and exams as you can take advantage of the shortcuts available such as journeyman and master electrician licenses. Additionally, this job pays well, so it’s worth your time and effort to receive your license. Good luck!
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