05/19/2026
Over the years, I’ve been asked from time to time what it takes to become an electrician. The information is out there but can be hard to find and even harder to understand when you’re not familiar with the trade.
Here’s a little glimpse into the life of an electrician.
The State of Michigan regulates most skilled trades under Public Act 407 of 2016, also known as the Skilled Trades Regulation Act. This act outlines what’s required to become licensed in different trades.
I’ll save you some reading and give you a quick breakdown of what it takes to become a licensed electrician in Michigan.
Apprentice Electrician → Journeyman Electrician → Master Electrician → Electrical Contractor
– Apprentice Electrician –
This is where it all begins. If you want to become an electrician, the first step is finding a company hiring apprentice electricians. Finding a company with a strong apprenticeship and training program can make a huge difference in your long-term success.
– Journeyman Electrician –
To become a Journeyman Electrician in Michigan, you must be registered as an electrical apprentice and complete at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training over a minimum of 4 years. You are also required to complete classroom education during this time. Once these requirements are met, you become eligible to take the State of Michigan Journeyman Electrician Exam.
– Master Electrician –
To become a Master Electrician, Michigan requires an additional 2 years of experience as a Journeyman Electrician and 4,000 more hours of on-the-job training. In total, that’s 12,000 hours of experience over at least 6 years before becoming eligible to take the Master Electrician Exam.
– Electrical Contractor –
To operate an electrical contracting business in Michigan, you must apply for an electrical contractors license which requires you to either be a licensed Master Electrician or you must employ a master electrician full time.
