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United States · Licensing exam

How to become an electrician in NYC: the master electrician license

New York City's Department of Buildings licenses master and special electricians. To become a licensed electrician in NYC you need years of supervised experience, at least two of them in the city, then pass a written and a practical exam and a background check. You must be at least 18 and able to read and write English. You don't need this license to start: the years count from work under a licensed master or special electrician.

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Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

What experience do you need to become an electrician in NYC?

One of these, within the years the Department of Buildings counts:

  • 7 years of hands-on electrical work under a licensed master or special electrician in the US, within the last 10 years
  • A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related engineering technology, plus 3 years of experience within the last 5
  • A New York State Department of Labor registered apprenticeship in the electrical trade, plus 5 years within the last 10
  • Electrical inspection work for a government or approved agency, counted at half its length up to 2 and a half years, plus other experience to make up 7 years

Every route needs at least 2 years of the experience in New York City.

How electrician apprenticeships work →

The written and practical exams

Fees are paid in the DOB NOW portal. Since February 23, 2026, every master and special electrician application goes through DOB NOW: Licensing, and walk-in and paper applications aren't accepted.

ExamFeeWhat to know
Written$585Multiple choice on NYC electrical codes, rules and regulations. No reference materials allowed. 70% to pass, with results at the test site
Practical$530You can only apply after passing the written exam, and you have 24 months from the written result to pass it. Results come by mail in about 3 to 4 weeks

After the exams

You then have one year from your practical exam result to send the license application for the background investigation. The Department asks for:

  • Your passing exam score report
  • A physical exam form (LIC62) completed by a doctor within 90 days
  • Experience forms signed by every supervisor for the years you claim
  • Your Social Security earnings history for those years
  • Government photo ID and your Social Security card
  • Business papers, including liability, workers' compensation and disability insurance and a place of business in the city

Outside New York City

This license is for work in New York City. If you'll work elsewhere in New York State, ask the building department of the city or town where you'll work what it requires.

Sources: NYC Department of Buildings. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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