How to get a Electrical license in Washington
The full Washington electrical licensing path — experience hours, required exam, fees, and where to apply. Verified 6/12/2026.
Career prep, not a license.
Prep for the Washington Electrical exam
Electrical 101 — Start Here (Free) — self-paced lessons, practice exam, certificate of completion.
Washington Electrical Contractor (01 General / 02 Residential / 06 Limited)
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a electrical license in Washington?
You need 01 journeyman: 8,000 hrs supervised experience + 96 hrs classroom. 02 residential: 4,000 hrs. administrator: additional 2 yrs as licensed journeyman.. Then pass the Washington Master Electrician / Administrator Exam (NEC + WAC 296-46B) administered by PSI Services. Applications go through the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
What exam do I need to pass?
Washington Master Electrician / Administrator Exam (NEC + WAC 296-46B) — administered by PSI Services.
How much experience do I need?
01 Journeyman: 8,000 hrs supervised experience + 96 hrs classroom. 02 Residential: 4,000 hrs. Administrator: additional 2 yrs as licensed journeyman.
What about fees, insurance, and continuing education?
Washington requires every individual electrician to hold a personal certificate (01/02/06) AND the business to be a licensed Electrical Contractor with bond ($4,000–$12,000 depending on class) and $250k general liability. License fees: ~$359/2yrs for contractor, $80.20/3yrs for individual cert. CEU: 24 hrs per renewal.
Other electrical licensing guides
Browse by state or trade.