Licensing guide

Electrical license requirements in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Electricians issues electrical licenses in Rhode Island. Here's what each license level takes, from the official rules.

Issued by

Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Electricians

Official site

Requirements checked October 21, 2026

License levels

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

  1. 1

    Journeyperson Electrician (Certificate B)

    At least 8,000 hours (four years) of experience.

    Official source
  2. 2

    Electrical Contractor (Certificate A)

    At least 12,000 hours (six years) of experience, and a Rhode Island Certificate B held for two years.

    Official source

Rules, fees and exam schedules change. Confirm the details with the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Electricians before you apply.

Electricians in Rhode Island

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

Electricians employed
2,420
Median hourly wage
$35.62

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 Rhode Island: common questions

Who issues electrical licenses in Rhode Island?

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Board of Examiners of Electricians. The license levels and what each takes are listed above, with a link to the official source for each.

What does the Electrical Contractor (Certificate A) license take in Rhode Island?

At least 12,000 hours (six years) of experience, and a Rhode Island Certificate B held for two years.

What's the first electrical license in Rhode Island?

The Journeyperson Electrician (Certificate B). At least 8,000 hours (four years) of experience.

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