Minnesota Electrical License: Everything You Need to Know

Jobs in the trades, especially professional electricians, are growing rapidly in America. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that nationwide, electrician job growth will increase at a rate of about 11% in the next decade, considerably higher than the overall national job growth average. Minnesota electricians expect a similar robust job growth rate of about 10% over the next ten years.

Are you ready to start a new career in this thriving field? Read our Minnesota electrical license guide to learn everything you need to know. We include all the details you need to get your license, find a job, and get the best training and education in the electrical field so you have plenty of career options.

Does Minnesota require an electrical license?

Yes, you need a Minnesota electrical license to work independently within the state. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry-Board of Electricity issues electrical licenses for all professional electricians.

However, Minnesota does permit some unlicensed individuals to perform electrical work under the direction of a licensed electrician. To perform work as an unlicensed electrical worker, you must register with the state, re-register annually, and adhere to the state’s guidelines for unlicensed electrical workers.

What are the different types of electrical licenses in Minnesota?

Minnesota issues six primary types of electrician licenses:

• Journeyman Class A Electrician: Class A journeyman electricians must have a minimum of 48 months of full-time experience, including planning, installing, laying, and repairing electrical wiring; performing line work; installing elevators; and wiring or maintaining technology and process control circuits. If you complete a two-year, post-high school technical course approved by the board, you may substitute this for one year of practical experience.
• Class A Master Electrician: This position requires at least 60 months (5 years) of full-time field experience. Your training must include line work, installing elevators, and supervising, planning, laying, installing, and repairing electrical wiring. Your experience should also include wiring and maintaining technology circuits and process control circuits.
• Maintenance Electrician: Must submit proof of at least 48 months of full-time field experience, including line work, installing elevators, planning, laying, installing, and repairing electrical wiring, and wiring and maintaining process control circuits. 
• If you complete a two-year, post-high school technical course approved by the board, you may substitute this for one year of experience.
• Outside Lineman: Must submit proof of at least 60 months (5 years) of full-time practical experience. This may include wiring and maintaining technology circuits; planning, laying, installing, and repairing electrical wiring; installing elevators; and line work.
• Power Limited Technician: Must have at least 36 months (3 years) of full-time practical experience which should include planning, laying, installing, and repairing electrical wiring; wiring and maintaining technology circuits; line work; installing elevators; and wiring and maintaining process control circuits.
• If you complete a two-year, post-high school electrical course or other technical training approved by the board, you may substitute this for 12 months of practical experience.
• Class B Installer: A minimum of 12 months of full-time experience is required. Qualifying experience may include installing, planning, laying, and repairing electrical wiring, performing line work, installing elevators, and wiring or maintaining technology and process control circuits.

How to get an electrician license in Minnesota

You can enroll in an electrician program at institutions like Minneapolis Electrical JATC, Northwest Technical College, and Anoka Technical College. Most programs take only a couple of semesters to complete.

The classes include reading electrical blueprints, electrical theory, and the basic technical skills of installing wiring. Some online courses may be available; however, you will need hands-on experience in the classroom.

Many programs don’t offer financial assistance for electrical programs. Visit the college’s website or apply online for government financial aid by filling out the application on the FAFSA website. You can apply for scholarships if you don’t qualify for government aid. Most programs will cost anywhere from $4,500 to $8,000 for tuition for the entire program.

Most programs require a high school diploma or GED. You should know some math, such as Algebra. Getting an apprenticeship is one of the first big steps to becoming a master electrician. Your work hours will depend on your employer.

After completing your apprenticeship, you can apply for the journeyman Minnesota electrical license. You’ll need to complete a test consisting of 80 questions. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website has resources to help you prepare. The examination application fee is $50.

Optional certifications for Minnesota electricians

In Minnesota, performing electrical work requires passing an exam or registering as an apprentice, plus having the right state-issued license. Many electricians choose to advance their skills through continued education and specialized certifications. These credentials can demonstrate expertise in specific areas and enhance career opportunities. Depending on your professional goals, obtaining one or more certifications may be valuable for expanding your knowledge and credibility in the field.

National Fire Protection Association certification 

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers certifications for electricians specializing in fire suppression systems, building security alarms, and related technologies. These certifications ensure that professionals meet industry standards for safety and efficiency. In addition to certification programs, the NFPA provides ongoing education, training courses, and resources to help electricians stay up to date with evolving regulations and best practices. An NFPA certification can enhance career opportunities and demonstrate expertise in fire safety and security systems. NFPA certifications are recognized in all 50 states.

NECA certifications

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is the leading organization for professional electricians in the U.S. and is highly respected in the industry. Open to all electricians, it provides valuable opportunities for networking and continuing education. NECA also offers certifications at every career stage, helping electricians demonstrate their skills to potential clients and employers. Through its resources and support, NECA helps electricians stay competitive, advance in their careers, and maintain the highest standards of quality and professionalism in the industry.

Independent Electrical Contractors Certified Professional Electrician

The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Certified Professional Electrician (CPE) designation highlights the nation’s top electricians and is recognized in every state. If you’re not ready for the CPE, IEC offers other certifications, including specialty ones, to support those pursuing niche fields.

IEC also provides continuing education resources to keep electricians current with industry changes and apprenticeship opportunities. For those who prefer an alternative to union apprenticeships or trade schools, IEC offers a strong pathway for foundational education and career growth. With resources for every career stage, IEC is a valuable organization for electricians looking to advance their skills and opportunities.

How much does an electrician make in Minnesota?

Electricians in Minnesota earn competitive pay, especially in metro areas. There are plenty of job opportunities, from entry-level to management. Below are the average salaries for some of the most in-demand electrician roles in the state.

• Apprentice electrician: $24.54 per hour
• Electrical technician: $29.80 per hour
• General electrician: $82,809 per year
• Journeyman electrician: $42.40 per hour
• Electrical foreman: $67,568 per year
• Electrical Project Manager: $103,227 per year

Electrician salaries in Minnesota are significantly higher than the national average. Even entry-level positions, like apprentice ($24.54 per hour) and journeyman electrician ($42.40 per hour), pay considerably more than the national average, $22.03 and $33.90 per hour, respectively. The average pay for a general electrician in the U.S. is $63,664 per year, nearly $20,000 less than the average for Minnesota, $82,809 per year.

Electricians in higher cost-of-living areas tend to make more than those in lower COL areas, although this is not guaranteed. Other factors that could affect your yearly wages include working overtime as an hourly employee or working for an employer who offers more money to work nights and weekends and handle emergencies. Salaried electricians may earn bonuses. If you own your own electrical contractor company, you may make considerably more than the average general electrician, although owning your own business can come with different challenges.

Should I join an electrician union in Minnesota?

While you’re not required to join an electrician union, there are many benefits. For instance, you’ll likely to get higher wages and receive health insurance. Some unions also offer a pension, paid vacation, and sick time. There are also apprenticeship opportunities through electrical unions. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) offers state-approved apprenticeships, and there are several local branches throughout the state, including IBEW Local 292 in Minneapolis, IBEW Local 160 in Plymouth, and IBEW Local 343 in the southern part of the state.

How to use your electrician license to get a job

There are several places to find electrician jobs. You can contact your local unions and use your professional network, like people you trained under or your teachers from school. Or, you can search on popular online job boards, including Indeed, Zip Recruiter, and Career Builder.  The State of Minnesota also advertises state electrician jobs on its website.

In the interview, prepare to answer questions about your previous experience. The company might also want to know about your work ethic and professionalism. Timeliness is one of the qualities many employers seek in job candidates, so ensure you’re on time for the interview. You should also dress professionally.

Electrician insurance in Minnesota

Learning safety procedures will significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents on the job. However, you’ll need liability insurance if you own your own electrician business. Depending on the scope of the job and the client’s requirements, you may need additional liability insurance or a surety bond. If you work for a company, they should cover the insurance for you. Electrical business owners in Minnesota who have even one employee, even if that employee is part-time, must carry Minnesota Workers’ Compensation insurance.

Electrician industry trends

Attend trade shows like the Upper Midwest Electrical Expo to learn about new trends. You also can check out additional trade shows nationwide. Learn the latest changes in Minnesota’s codes by going to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website.

Alternative energy harvesting, such as wind farms and solar power, is growing. Electricians specializing in these types of jobs may enjoy steady job growth at places like the Prairie Star Wind Farm or one of the many solar farms in Minnesota.

FAQs

Is my license only valid in Minnesota?

Minnesota has reciprocity agreements with North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska.

How can I get a replacement electrician license in Minnesota?

If you lose your license, you must show proof of identity to the state to get a new copy. Similarly, if you change your name or address, you’ll need to show proof of your new name or address to get a new, updated copy of your license.

How often do I need to renew my electrician license in Minnesota?

Journeyman and electrical contractor licenses must be renewed annually. In addition to licensure renewal, electrical contractors must complete continuing education requirements. A journeyman license costs $35 to renew, while an electrical contractor license costs $150.