ConstructionLicense Required

Electrician License Requirements in California

Issued by: California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (Electrician Certification Unit)Verified: April 2026
License Required
Required
Application Fee
75.0
Exam Required
Yes
Bond Required
No

Requirements

  1. 1Work experience under a C-10 licensed electrical contractor as required by the certification type
  2. 2Submit an application for electrician certification ($75 application fee)
  3. 3Pass the ECU electrician certification examination ($100 exam fee)
  4. 4Renew certification when it expires ($100 renewal fee)
  5. 5Register as an Electrician Trainee if still gaining experience ($25 registration fee)

How to Apply

Electricians performing work under a C-10 licensed electrical contractor in California must be certified by the DIR Electrician Certification Unit (ECU). Applicants must demonstrate qualifying work experience, pass a certification exam, and pay applicable fees.
Apply at California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (Electrician Certification Unit)

Costs

Application Fee
75.0
Renewal Fee
100.0
Ready to get started?
ZenBusiness
Form your LLC — $0 + state fees
Most popular
Northwest Registered Agent
Registered agent + formation from $39/year
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as an electrician in California?
Yes. Electricians working under a C-10 licensed electrical contractor must be certified by the California Department of Industrial Relations Electrician Certification Unit (ECU).
What does California electrician certification cost?
The initial certification application fee is $75. The exam fee is $100. Renewal of certification costs $100.
How do I apply for electrician certification in California?
Submit a paper application (online applications are currently disabled) to the DIR Electrician Certification Unit, include documentation of work experience, and pay the $75 application fee. Then schedule and pass the certification exam.
What is an Electrician Trainee in California?
An Electrician Trainee (ET) is someone gaining the work experience required to become a certified electrician. ETs must register with the ECU for $25 and work toward certification.
Where can I find more information about California electrician certification?
Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations website at dir.ca.gov/dlse/ecu/ElectricalTrade.html or contact the ECU at (510) 286-3900 or ECUInfo@dir.ca.gov.

Related pages

Electrician in other states
Other licenses in California
Data sourced from official state government portal. Last verified April 2026.
View official source →