How to Become an Electrician in Georgia

According to the Bureau of Labor electricians in Georgia average $58 to $60K per year. And that is just the beginning. Electricians enjoy a career with great earning potential and job security.

Training and Education

If you have little or no experience in the electrical trade, starting with an online or hybrid program from a local technical school is the way to go. Check out some of these options below.

Local Trade Schools

How Long Does It Take?

7 to 12 months is the typical range for entry level programs.

What Are the Costs?

$2,500 is usually the minimum. Additionally, there are fees related to taking the electrical contractor exam, which is an essential step toward becoming a licensed electrical contractor in Georgia.

What Do You Study? Residential Wiring Electrical Theory

Your curriculum might look something like this:

Introduction

Covers electrical theory and practical applications
Includes hands-on experience with electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
Emphasizes National Electric Code (NEC) compliance and OSHA safety standards
The curriculum is designed to prepare students for electrician certification, covering essential topics such as electrical theory and practical applications.

The Basics

Explores alternating currents and conductor installations
Focuses on load calculations and branch circuitry
Teaches proper wiring techniques according to NEC requirements

Electric Motor Principles

Provides insights into AC and DC motor operations
Covers motor enclosures, HVAC components, and troubleshooting methods
Includes practical use of testing equipment and motor maintenance techniques

Life Safety Specialty Systems

Specializes in fire alarm systems and troubleshooting practices
Discusses applications for pools, spas, fountains, and semiconductor devices
Introduces Solid State Relays (SSR) and control panel configurations for Life Safety Systems (LSS)

Electrical Systems Technology

Basic electrical circuits
Installing electrical systems
Maintenance and repair of electrical components, including breakers, lighting units, outlets, switches, ceiling fans, and motors.
Ability to diagnose and service electrical systems during service appointments.

The Electrical Industry

Offers a comprehensive overview of residential electricity fundamentals
Includes basic electrical math and operational principles
Emphasizes jobsite safety, electrical hazards, and compliance with industry standards

People Skills

Provides training in communication, teamwork, and project planning
Enhances time management skills and professional development

Certification Exam Details

The certification exam for electricians in Georgia is administered by the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Electrical Contractors. This exam is designed to assess your knowledge and skills in various critical areas, including electrical theory, circuit analysis, electrical codes and regulations, and safety procedures. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is open-book, allowing you to reference materials during the test.

To pass the exam, you must correctly answer at least 70% of the questions. The exam is offered in two formats: Class I and Class II. The Class I exam is tailored for electricians who plan to work on low-voltage, single-phase electrical installations that do not exceed 200 amperes. On the other hand, the Class II exam is for those who intend to work on more complex electrical systems that exceed 200 amperes. Successfully passing this exam is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed electrical contractor in Georgia.

Salary Range

Take a look at the average salaries for electricians in the state per major job sites:

careerexplorer.com: $49,490
indeed.com: $54,516.80
salary.com: $54,882
talent.com: $55,929
ziprecruiter.com: $56,160

Here is what electrician pay looks like for different parts of the state.

Area	Hourly	Annually
Albany	$25.73	$53,510
Athens-Clarke County	$26.27	$54,640
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell	$28.52	$59,330
Augusta-Richmond County	$30.26	$62,940
Brunswick	$25.11	$52,220
Columbus	$23.20	$48,250
Dalton	$28.25	$58,760
East GA	$26.18	$54,450
Gainesville	$25.83	$53,730
Hinesville	$29.17	$60,670
Macon	$26.39	$54,890
Middle GA	$25.57	$53,190
North GA	$26.11	$54,310
Rome	$28.91	$60,130
Savannah	$26.73	$55,610
South GA	$27.58	$57,370
Valdosta	$23.20	$48,260
Warner Robins	$26.21	$54,510

_{Occupation: Electricians (SOC Code472111)
source: data.bls.gov}

Georgia Requirements

To become a licensed electrician in Georgia, you must meet several specific requirements. First, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Next, you must complete an apprenticeship program or a vocational training program at an accredited electrician trade school. This training should include at least 180 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of supervised on-the-job experience.

After fulfilling these educational and practical experience requirements, you must pass the certification exam administered by the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Meeting these criteria ensures that you are well-prepared to work as an electrician in Georgia, equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle various electrical systems and installations.

Apprenticeships

The state offers various apprenticeship programs, with popular options being the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Union apprenticeship program and the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Professional Electricians Program (PEP).

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) collaborates with local unions, such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), to form the Electrical Training Alliance, which oversees various apprenticeships.

Alternatively, you can complete an electrician training program at an accredited trade school or community college.

Certification

In Georgia, certification and licensing are critical steps to becoming an electrician.

Upon meeting program standards, such as graduating from a trade school, certifications are awarded.

Certification is not necessary to become a licensed electrician, though it can be a convenient way to receive training and support while completing the four years of experience necessary to apply for an Electrical Contractor license.

Electrical Contractor License

Licenses issued by state or local governments confirm that an individual has the required experience and knowledge and has passed a standardized test. After gaining experience as a journeyman electrician, individuals can apply for their own electrical contractor license, which requires meeting specific age and examination prerequisites.

In Georgia, electricians only need individual licenses to become Electrical Contractors, and there is no journeyman licensing phase. Electricians work under the license of an electrical contractor.

Electrical contractors must obtain a permit from the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board’s Division of Electrical Contractors.

After completing an apprenticeship program, you can work as a journeyman without supervision. Working as a journeyman electrician under a licensed electrical contractor is a mandatory step toward obtaining your contractor’s license.

Becoming an Electrical Contractor

To become an electrical contractor in Georgia, you must complete an authorized apprenticeship program, acquiring at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under a licensed electrical contractor. Becoming an independent electrical contractor in Georgia requires not only technical skills but also project management skills and compliance with OSHA regulations.

After meeting the training requirement, apply to the Georgia State Construction Licensing Board’s Division of Electrical Contractors to take the exam. To become a licensed independent electrical contractor, you must meet specific qualifications, such as age, experience, references, and exam scores, and comply with continuing education requirements for license renewal.

You must be at least 21, have a GED or equivalent, pass a background check from a law enforcement agency, provide documentation of four years of experience, submit three references, and pass the exam with at least a 70% score.

Georgia offers two types of contractor licenses:

Class I for low-voltage, single-phase installations up to 200 amperes
Class II for installations exceeding 200 amperes

Class II Electrical Contractors must register their Electrical Contracting Companies with the Georgia Department of Revenue.

A license allows you to operate a business, bid on projects, obtain insurance, request permits, pass inspections, and advertise your services.

Licensing Authority and Resources

The Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Electrical Contractors, serves as the licensing authority for electricians in Georgia. This board is responsible for issuing licenses to electricians who meet the necessary requirements and pass the certification exam. They also provide a wealth of resources and information to support electricians throughout their careers.

These resources include exam study materials, licensing applications, and details on continuing education requirements. By staying informed and utilizing these resources, you can ensure that you remain compliant with state regulations and continue to advance in your career as an electrical contractor.

Renewals

Electrical contractor licenses in Georgia must be renewed every two years with the Georgia Division of Electrical Contractors, as per the Georgia Secretary of State. Renewal requires completing 8 hours of Continuing Education over two years (4 hours each year). The renewal fee is $75.

State Reciprocity

According to the Division of Electrical Contractors, Georgia has reciprocity agreements for electrical licenses with Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Electricians licensed in Georgia can work in these states without needing additional licenses.

Job Outlook and Growth Prospects

The job outlook for electricians in Georgia is highly positive, with a projected growth rate of 9% through 2024. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 17,280 electricians working in Georgia in 2014, and this number is expected to rise to 20,290 by 2024. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for electrical services across various sectors.

Electricians in Georgia can expect to earn an average annual salary of $51,430. Entry-level electricians typically earn around $31,920, while experienced professionals can command salaries as high as $75,200. With the growing need for skilled electrical workers, job opportunities are abundant. Electricians can find employment with electrical contractors, construction contractors, government agencies, and developers and builders. This promising job outlook makes it an excellent time to pursue a career as an electrician in Georgia.

Joining a Union in Georgia

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) is the oldest and largest union for electrical workers.

They offer apprenticeships for prospective electricians and membership for licensed electricians.

In Georgia, local IBEW unions include:

IBEW Local 614 — Atlanta, GA
IBEW Local 1316 — Macon, GA
IBEW Local 1579 — Augusta, GA
IBEW Local 84 — Smyrna, GA

To become an apprentice, you must be at least 18, have a GED and proof of passing high school algebra, provide official transcripts, pass the IBEW apprenticeship aptitude test, and complete an interview.

Successful candidates are ranked by score and added to a roster for two years, with selection based on ranking.

To become a member of a licensed electrician, contact your local union and fulfill basic requirements such as citizenship, education, and a background check. Specific requirements may vary by local union.

Video: Interview With a Georgia Electrician

Check out this question and and answer session with a local electrician. Below is an abridged version transcript of the video, so be sure to watch the full interview for lots of great information about the journey to becoming a journeyman electrician.

Video Transcript

Welcome everyone. This is Doug Crawford. And today we’re speaking with an electrician from Georgia.

Why did you decide to become an electrician in Georgia?

Before I graduated high school, I wanted to go into electrical engineering. But I weighed my options between actually getting an electrical license versus getting an electrical engineering degree. I came to the conclusion and there’s a lot more potential in getting your license than getting your engineering degree. So I wound up going that route.

How how did how did you get started being electrician?

My teacher had a previous student that had graduated and started his own electrical company doing airport lighting and site lighting.

When I graduated, I went to work for him for about four and a half years, traveling all over the southeast. While doing that, he put me through three years of school. I went through the IEC.

Is your goal to gain further specialization or accreditation?

Yes, I currently I have the journeyman card through the IEC. But my next step is getting my master’s electrical license for the state of Georgia. For our state it’s an eight hour test.

What some of the the most important skills you have learned going through this process?

When I started I really didn’t like talking to people. I wasn’t much of a people person, but I grew as a person there. When you work with people, you become more confident in yourself.

What were biggest challenges you had during your training?

The school work was not hard. Finding the time to do it was. It’s it takes a lot of dedication and a lot of willpower.

When you go beyond the basics into electrical theory it can be very difficult, but once you get your head wrapped around it, the possibilities are endless.

What advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about becoming electrician in Georgia?

Honestly it’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve done. I would just keep your head on straight and make sure you do it.

Get into a good company that has the program to send you through an apprenticeship.

You can go to a tech school, but make sure you get your credentials. Because you can work for twenty years in the trade, and if you do not have those certifications or credentials, then you really have no proof that you’ve done anything other than your knowledge and skill. Having that piece of paper and having everything to back up your word is very helpful with companies now.

What are some attributes that a good electrician should have?

You have to be good at math. Math skills are helpful, but there’s honestly not a lot of mathematics in your day-to-day. There’s apps out there that help you with it. Don’t get me wrong, but you have to have some form of math skill to get into it.

You have to be good with your hands.

You need a strong work ethic. Because no matter where you start in the trade, a lot of the times you start with a shovel.

Forward thinking and forethought. I can look at something and almost build the job in my head before I ever do it. And if you can do that you’ll excel at being electrician because there’s so many fun ways you can get the job done. There’s always more than one way to skin a cat. And if you can visualize it and then do it, it makes the job much easier.

How how do you stay up to date on the latest codes?

The code updates every three years, and different jurisdictions adopt at different rates. Usually Georgia is a year behind.

Enroll in continuing education courses. Also, you can teach yourself because, code doesn’t really change a whole lot. They add to it. There may be new exceptions. There may be new ways of doing it, but the code generally stays the same.

From 2017 to 2020 fault protection went up in houses to where at first it was in bedrooms. Then it was required throughout the whole house virtually. Then in 2023 it delved really deep into ground fault protection.

So you can take continuing education classes, or you can just buy the code book and go back through and read it.

Any final comments?

It’s a great time to get into the electrical trades. People always need it. Companies are hiring, and they’re paying really good money for it. And, you don’t have to accrue any debt to do it.

What Employers in Georgia Are Looking for in Electricians

Georgia’s job market for electricians is dynamic and competitive, with employers seeking candidates who demonstrate technical proficiency, safety awareness, and a strong work ethic. Across the state, companies are hiring electricians for commercial, industrial, residential, and governmental projects, offering opportunities for both apprentices and seasoned professionals. Employers such as M.C. Dean, Inc., Lewis Electrical Contractors, Inc., Mr. Electric, and RQ Construction outline clear expectations for candidates, with crossover skills that extend into related disciplines such as cybersecurity, construction management, and systems engineering.

Key Skills and Qualifications Employers Seek

Technical Proficiency and Hands-On Experience
- Employers expect electricians to be proficient in installing, assembling, and maintaining electrical systems.
- Skills in reading blueprints, interpreting schematics, and following electrical codes are highly valued.
- Familiarity with conduit bending, wiring, and control panel installations is essential, particularly for industrial and commercial electricians.
- Testing and troubleshooting electrical systems with specialized tools (e.g., multimeters) is a core requirement.
Education and Certification Requirements
- Most positions require a high school diploma or GED.
- Enrollment in or completion of an apprenticeship program is often preferred, with a focus on formal training combining classroom instruction with on-the-job experience.
- Some roles require certifications such as OSHA-30, First Aid/CPR, or state-issued Electrical Apprentice licenses.
- Employers like RQ Construction prioritize candidates with experience in construction and certifications that meet Department of Defense (DoD) standards.
Physical and Safety Requirements
- The job demands physical stamina, including the ability to lift heavy objects (100+ pounds), work at heights, and perform repetitive tasks.
- Safety compliance is non-negotiable. Candidates must adhere to OSHA regulations, use proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and follow strict safety protocols.
- Positions such as the one at M.C. Dean, Inc. require passing drug tests and background checks.

Core Competencies and Crossover Skills

Electricians in Georgia are increasingly expected to bring crossover competencies that blend traditional electrical expertise with knowledge in emerging technical fields:

Cyber-Physical Systems and Automation:
Companies like M.C. Dean, Inc. emphasize a need for electricians with exposure to smart breakers, relays, and Energy Management Systems (EMS). This reflects a growing trend of integrating IoT and automated systems into electrical infrastructure.
Construction and Project Management Skills:
Employers such as Lewis Electrical Contractors value experience in commercial and industrial settings, where electricians are involved in the planning, installation, and maintenance of large-scale systems. Knowledge of construction codes and project timelines is advantageous.
Technology and Software Proficiency:
Firms like Mr. Electric expect candidates to be comfortable using digital tools, such as iPads and field service software, to streamline customer interactions and project documentation.

Notable Employers and Job Highlights

M.C. Dean, Inc. (Atlanta, GA)
- Specializes in cyber-physical solutions for mission-critical facilities.
- Seeking apprentices with skills in EMS, smart relays, and troubleshooting complex systems.
- Offers a full benefits package with 401(k), paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.
Lewis Electrical Contractors, Inc. (Alpharetta, GA)
- Known for turnkey electrical construction in commercial, industrial, and manufacturing sectors.
- Seeks candidates with basic wiring and conduit installation skills.
- Provides competitive pay, health insurance, and 401(k) matching.
Mr. Electric (Conyers, GA)
- Focuses on residential electrical services.
- Prioritizes customer service skills along with technical expertise.
- Offers regular training and mentorship programs to promote growth.
RQ Construction (Kings Bay, GA)
- Specializes in governmental and defense-related electrical projects.
- Apprentices receive prevailing Davis-Bacon wages and extensive on-the-job training.
- Ideal for candidates seeking long-term career paths in industrial electrical systems.

Trends and Industry Insights

Crossover into Renewable Energy and Low-Voltage Systems:
As the demand for solar panels, EV charging stations, and smart home systems grows, electricians with skills in renewable energy and low-voltage installations are increasingly sought after.
Automation and Building Intelligence:
Companies like M.C. Dean reflect the industry trend toward building automation and control systems, requiring electricians with programming and networking competencies.
Government and Defense Contracts:
Employers such as RQ Construction hire electricians for Department of Defense (DoD) projects, offering specialized training and requiring security clearances.

Conclusion

Employers in Georgia seek electricians with a combination of technical proficiency, physical stamina, and adaptability. The ability to work safely, follow industry regulations, and continuously learn new technologies is highly valued. With companies offering competitive wages, benefits, and structured apprenticeship programs, Georgia’s electrical job market presents strong opportunities for both entry-level and experienced professionals.