Career Overview: Why Become an Electrician?
California is one of the best states to start an electrical career. With a growing demand for skilled electricians in residential, commercial, and industrial construction, electricians in California earn competitive wages and enjoy strong job security.
To work as an electrician in California, you must obtain an Electrician Trainee (ET) card from the Division of Industrial Relations (DIR), complete an approved training program, and eventually pass the state certification exam. Here's exactly how the process works.
Get Your Electrician Trainee (ET) Card
The ET card is required before you can legally work as an electrical trainee in California. It is issued by the DIR (Division of Industrial Relations) and proves that you are enrolled in an approved training program.
To get your ET card, you need to:
- Enroll in a state-approved Electrician Trainee Program
- Complete the application process
- Pass a pre-assessment exam (minimum 75% score)
- Submit your application to DIR through your school
At California Electrical Training, we handle the DIR submission process for you. Learn more about applying for the ET card.
Complete Your Electrical Training
California requires electrician trainees to complete a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab training. An approved program covers topics including electrical theory, the National Electrical Code (NEC), safety standards, and practical wiring skills.
Our program includes:
- Online self-paced coursework — study from anywhere
- Hands-on lab classes — available online at your own pace
- Bilingual instruction — courses in English and Spanish
- NCCER-aligned curriculum approved by the State of California
See the full Electrician Trainee Program details.
Pass the California Electrician Certification Exam
After completing your training and accumulating the required on-the-job hours (typically 8,000 hours as a trainee), you can take the California Electrician Certification Exam administered by the Department of Industrial Relations.
The exam covers:
- National Electrical Code (NEC) knowledge
- Electrical theory and calculations
- Safety practices and OSHA standards
- California-specific electrical regulations
Passing this exam grants you the title of Certified Electrician in California, allowing you to work independently and supervise trainees.
Maintain Your Certification with Continuing Education
Once certified, California electricians must complete 32 hours of continuing education units (CEUs) every three years to renew their certification. This keeps you up to date with code changes and safety standards.
CET offers state-approved CEU courses online in both English and Spanish, so you can complete your requirements from anywhere.
How Much Does Electrician School Cost in California?
The cost of electrician training varies depending on the program. At California Electrical Training, we offer competitive pricing with flexible payment plans to make the program accessible:
$75
Application Fee
$700
Per Quarter
Varies
Labs & CEU Courses
We offer monthly payment plans and do not require student loans. Your total investment is significantly lower than traditional trade schools.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Electrician?
The timeline depends on your pace and the hours you accumulate on the job:
Electrician Trainee Program
10 months to 2.5 years (self-paced)
On-the-Job Training
Approximately 4 years (8,000 hours)
Certification Exam
Available once training and hours are complete
You can start working as a paid electrical trainee immediately after receiving your ET card, earning while you learn.
How Much Do Electricians Make in California?
California is one of the highest-paying states for electricians in the US. Your earning potential grows significantly at each stage of your career:
| Career Stage | Hourly Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Trainee (ET Card) | $18–$25/hr | $37,000–$52,000 |
| Journeyman Electrician | $35–$55/hr | $73,000–$114,000 |
| Master / Supervising Electrician | $55–$80/hr | $115,000–$166,000 |
Most electricians also receive health benefits, retirement plans, and overtime pay. Industrial and commercial electricians tend to earn more than residential specialists. You can start earning as a paid electrical trainee from day one — while you complete your training.