How to get a Electrical license in Pennsylvania

The full Pennsylvania electrical licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 6/12/2026.

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License details

Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor + local Electrical License

Verified 6/12/2026
Experience required
Philadelphia: 4 yrs (7,500 hrs) under a licensed master + 60 college credits OR 7 yrs experience. Pittsburgh: similar.
Required exam
Local municipal exam (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown each have their own) (PSI / municipal)
Notes & fees
PA has NO statewide electrical license. You register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the AG office ($50, valid 2 yrs) and then get a separate municipal electrical license where you work. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have the most rigorous requirements. Plan on $300–$1,000 in municipal fees.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a electrical license in Pennsylvania?

You need philadelphia: 4 yrs (7,500 hrs) under a licensed master + 60 college credits or 7 yrs experience. pittsburgh: similar.. Then pass the Local municipal exam (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown each have their own) administered by PSI / municipal. Applications go through the Pennsylvania Attorney General (HIC registration) + municipal electrical inspector.

What exam do I need to pass?

Local municipal exam (Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown each have their own) — administered by PSI / municipal.

How much experience do I need?

Philadelphia: 4 yrs (7,500 hrs) under a licensed master + 60 college credits OR 7 yrs experience. Pittsburgh: similar.

What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?

PA has NO statewide electrical license. You register as a Home Improvement Contractor with the AG office ($50, valid 2 yrs) and then get a separate municipal electrical license where you work. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have the most rigorous requirements. Plan on $300–$1,000 in municipal fees.

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