Licensing guide

Electrical license requirements in District of Columbia

The DC Board of Industrial Trades (DLCP) issues electrical licenses in District of Columbia. Here's what each license level takes, from the official rules.

Issued by

DC Board of Industrial Trades (DLCP)

Official site

Requirements checked October 21, 2026

License levels

In order, from the first license to the top one.

  1. 1

    Journeyman Electrician

    At least 8,000 hours over at least four years as an apprentice, or an electrical engineering degree plus two years of experience. You also complete a class on the DC electrical code.

    Official source
  2. 2

    Master Electrician

    The journeyman requirements, plus at least four years working as a journeyman electrician.

    Official source

Rules, fees and exam schedules change. Confirm the details with the DC Board of Industrial Trades (DLCP) before you apply.

Electricians in District of Columbia

From the Bureau of Labor Statistics. See a city for local wages and contractor counts.

Electricians employed
2,440
Median hourly wage
$37.97

Electrical market data by city

Once you're licensed

Tradesman runs the business side for electricians: estimates, scheduling, invoicing and payments in one app.

Electrical licensing in District of Columbia: common questions

Who issues electrical licenses in District of Columbia?

The DC Board of Industrial Trades (DLCP). The license levels and what each takes are listed above, with a link to the official source for each.

What does the Master Electrician license take in District of Columbia?

The journeyman requirements, plus at least four years working as a journeyman electrician.

What's the first electrical license in District of Columbia?

The Journeyman Electrician. At least 8,000 hours over at least four years as an apprentice, or an electrical engineering degree plus two years of experience. You also complete a class on the DC electrical code.

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