How to get a Electrical license in New York
The full New York electrical licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 5/26/2026.
Career prep, not a license.
Prep for the New York Electrical exam
Electrical 101 — Start Here (Free) — self-paced lessons, practice exam, certificate of completion.
Master Electrician License (issued by local jurisdiction — NYC, Buffalo, etc.)
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a electrical license in New York?
You need 7.5 years (15,000 hrs) of electrical work in last 10 yrs under licensed master; 2 yrs must be in nyc. Then pass the NYC Master Electrician Exam (written + practical) — NEC + NYC Electrical Code administered by NYC DOB. Applications go through the NYC Dept. of Buildings (Master Electrician Licensing Unit) / local municipalities.
What exam do I need to pass?
NYC Master Electrician Exam (written + practical) — NEC + NYC Electrical Code — administered by NYC DOB.
How much experience do I need?
7.5 years (15,000 hrs) of electrical work in last 10 yrs under licensed master; 2 yrs must be in NYC
What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?
No NY statewide license — each city/county sets rules. NYC application fee $525 + exam $50. Background check, fingerprinting required. Workers' comp + disability + $1M liability insurance required to do business. Biennial renewal $50 + 7 hrs CE (NEC update).
Other electrical licensing guides
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