Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Trades
Electrician Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for electrician in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Electrician in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Housing, Building and Construction
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,490 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 59,490, Electricians in Kentucky earn 5% below the national median of $62,350. Kentucky ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$59,490Hourly estimate
$28.605% below national median
Difference: -$2,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationElectrician Salary Ranking
#38 of 50 statesfor Electrician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | 97,320 |
| #2 | Washington | 96,530 |
| #3 | Illinois | 96,360 |
| #4 | Hawaii | 83,200 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | 82,120 |
Nearby States Comparison
Electrician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $59,490 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $65,480 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $63,560 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $63,850 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $61,610 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $59,190 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $70,950 | Varies by state board | Choice of state or third-party exam | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,360 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Housing, Building and Construction
500 Mero Street, First Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025732002
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $50,860 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $43,500 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $58,880 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $44,850 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Electrician in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Electricians in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Electricians.
What is the typical Electrician salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Electricians in Kentucky is 59,490. Salaries range from $37,130 (10th percentile) to $82,890 (90th percentile).
How does the Electrician salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Electricians in Kentucky earn 5% below the national median of $62,350, with a state median of 59,490.
How many Electricians work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 10,320 Electricians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Electrician license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Electricians in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Housing, Building and Construction. Review agency details at http://dhbc.ky.gov/.