Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Trades
Electrician Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for electrician in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Electrician in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Utilities Commission • Electric Power Generation • Operations
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$54,070 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 54,070, Electricians in North Carolina earn 13% below the national median of $62,350. North Carolina ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$54,070Hourly estimate
$26.0013% below national median
Difference: -$8,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationElectrician Salary Ranking
#47 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $54,070 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
| Georgia | $58,860 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $58,260 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 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. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Utilities Commission • Electric Power Generation • Operations
4325 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC, 27699-4300
Phone: 9197333979
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $47,630 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $102,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $51,940 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $42,190 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Electrician in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Electricians.
What education do you need to become a Electrician in North Carolina?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Electrician licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Electrician salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Electricians in North Carolina is 54,070. Salaries range from $38,700 (10th percentile) to $72,170 (90th percentile).
How does the Electrician salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Electricians in North Carolina earn 13% below the national median of $62,350, with a state median of 54,070.
How many Electricians work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 23,660 Electricians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Electrician license to North Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Electricians in North Carolina?
The licensing agency is Utilities Commission / Electric Power Generation / Operations. Review agency details at https://www.ncuc.net/Industries/electric/electric.html.