For those seeking an electrical license in Indiana, your municipality will determine the electrical licensing procedure. Indiana does not have a state regulatory body when it comes to electrical professions; instead, you will need to adhere to the licensing requirements of the city or municipality you are working in.
This article will outline the basic types of electrical licenses in Indiana, specifically in the four most populated IN cities: Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and South Bend.
Do You Need an Electrical License in Indiana?
Each municipality determines the licensing requirements for electricians in the area. Most Indiana municipalities will require electricians to be 1) under the direct supervision of a licensee if not licensed themselves or 2) licensed through examination. Different municipalities in Indiana may offer licensing for journeyman, residential, and master electricians. Electrical contractors, if distinct from master electricians, should also be licensed in most parts of Indiana.
To be sure of the licensing requirements in your area, reach out to the Licensing Board of your town or municipality.
Electrical Licenses in Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is home to over 860,000 people, making it the most populated city in Indiana. An electrician will find plenty of work here and can become licensed as a master electrician, residential electrician, or electrical contractor. Anyone installing, altering, replacing, servicing, or repairing an electrical system in Indianapolis needs a license.
Master electricians are unrestricted electricians. Residential electricians can only work on one- and two-family structures. Electrical contractors bid and oversee electrical contracting work and are only required to have a license if they will also be performing electrical work over 25 volts.
Indianapolis Licensing Requirements
To become a licensed electrician or contractor in Indianapolis, the Board will determine if you can sit for the appropriate Prometric exam. You must score at least 75% to receive your license.
You must present before the Board of Electrical Examiners with the following information submitted at least 10 days before your presentation:
- Your completed electrical exam application
- Notarized and signed reference letter(s) documenting your 6+ years of experience. Up to 2 years of experience can be attributed to college courses or an apprenticeship
- If you cannot provide the latter, you can opt to submit 3 reference letters with work descriptions and dates. W2s for at least 6 years of experience can also be submitted in conjunction with these documents.
- At least 3 signed reference letters
- A photocopy of your driver’s license
- Official transcripts (if applicable)
- Copies of current licenses (if applicable)
For information on reciprocal electrical licenses in Indianapolis see here.
Electrical Licenses in Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne electricians fall under the jurisdiction of the Building Department of Allen County, Indiana. In this county, you can be licensed as a journeyman electrician, master electrician, or electrical contractor.
All applicants will need to complete the appropriate Prometric/ICC Test to become licensed. A list of all license fees can be found here. You may need to create an account on Citizen Access to apply for and renew your license. To receive more information on how to complete your application, you may email gebert@co.allen.in.us or call the Allen County Building Department at 1-260-449-7131.
Electrical Licenses in Evansville, IN
Evansville offers licenses for electrical apprentices, journeyman electricians, and master electricians.
Journeyman and master electricians must complete the appropriate application. It includes:
- A criminal background check request
- Attestation of completing high school or a GED program
- Proof of the completion of or enrollment in an apprenticeship program (if applicable)
- 3 notarized letters of recommendation on letterhead documenting 4+ years of experience OR current registration as an engineer in the electrical trade
- If you are applying on behalf of a company, you’ll need to prove general liability insurance, bond, and Worker’s Compensation
Once your application is approved, you’ll be contacted by the Board to schedule and pay for the appropriate electrical exam. More information on the exam can be found under Step 2 of this page.
Exam scores are reviewed by the Licensing and Disciplinary Board on the fourth Thursday of each month. Once you pass with a 75% or higher, you will pay the appropriate fee and receive your license after review.
For further questions contact License Clerk Cathy Evenson at 812-436-7880.
Electrical Licenses in South Bend, IN
South Bend only offers electrical licenses for electrical contractors. Those working as journeyman or apprentice electricians do not have to be licensed, but they should work under a licensed electrical contractor.
There are two types of electrical contractor licenses: class A and class B. Class A Electrical Contractor Licenses are for those who perform or supervise electrical work. Class B Electrical Industrial Licenses are for electricians who work solely on industrial premises.
Class A Electrical Contractor License
Class A licensees must:
- Complete the application (page 2)
- Submit photo ID
- Be 21+
- Submit a Police Department statement on if they have ever been convicted of a crime
- Have at least 4 years of electrical experience in residential, commercial, or industrial settings – this can be from an approved apprenticeship program
- Submit reference letters from each contractor verifying apprenticeship
- Pass the National Master Electrician exam through Pearson Vue or Prometric with a 70% or higher
- Both Class A and Class B licensees must take the Master Electrician exam, which is 100 questions, 5 hours long, and open book
- Pay a $50 application fee
Once your application is approved, you’ll need to provide:
- An Original Surety Bond (details on page 3)
- Proof of Worker’s Comp
- Proof of registration with the state, if applicable
- A $125 annual licensing fee
Class B Electrical Industrial Contractor License
Class B licensees must complete the same application steps as Class A licensees. Both Class A and Class B licensees must take the Master Electrician exam, which is 100 questions, 5 hours long, and open book.
Once your application is approved, you’ll need to:
- Provide proof of Worker’s Comp
- Provide proof of registration with the state, if applicable
- Pay a $125 annual licensing fee
Indiana Electrician Salaries
Electricians in Indiana make an average of $24.21 per hour, or $53,848 annually – slightly less than the national average. As with all states, salaries depend on what city you’re working in, licensure, and years of experience.
