How to Get an Electrician License in Texas: 2026 Requirements & Salary Guide

Texas is currently experiencing a massive construction boom, and the demand for skilled electricians is at an all-time high. If you want a career with high earning potential and job security, getting an Electrical License in Texas is your best move in 2026.

📑 Table of Contents:

• 💡 Key Takeaways
• 1. Step-by-Step Guide
• 2. License Levels
• 💰 Salary Potential
• 4. Cost Breakdown
• 📍 More Texas Guides

💡 Key Takeaways for Texas Electricians:

• Authority: Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
• Start Time: Immediate (Apprentice Registration).
• Journeyman Req: 8,000 hours of experience.
• Avg. Salary: $60,000 (Entry) to $105,000+ (Master).

The path is straightforward: you start as an apprentice and work your way up. (Interested in other trades? See our guides on HVAC Licensing in Texas and Plumbing Licensing in Texas).

1. Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Register as an Apprentice Electrician

You do not need an exam for this. Simply apply online through the TDLR website and pay the $20 fee. This allows you to legally work under a Master Electrician and start logging your hours immediately.

Step 2: Gain Required Experience

To become a Journeyman, you need 8,000 hours of on-the-job training (approx. 4 years) under the supervision of a Master Electrician.

Step 3: Pass the PSI Exam

Once your hours are verified, you must pass the Journeyman Electrician Exam. It covers the National Electrical Code (NEC), Texas laws, and safety standards.

🎓 Find Electrician Schools Near Me

*Search for accredited programs in your zip code

2. License Levels Explained

License Type	Requirements	Scope
Apprentice	No Experience	Must work under supervision.
Journeyman	8,000 Hours	Can work unsupervised (but not own a business).
Master	12,000 Hours	Can own a business and pull permits.

💰 Electrician Salary Potential in Texas

Apprentice ($38k - $48k)

Journeyman ($65k - $85k)

Master Electrician ($105k+)

*Based on 2026 industry averages for Texas cities like Austin and Houston.

4. Cost Breakdown

• Apprentice Registration: $20
• Journeyman Exam Fee: $73
• Initial License Fee: $30
• Master Exam Fee: $73
• Renewal: Yearly (fees vary).

📍 Explore More Texas Guides

Don't limit yourself to one trade. Check out requirements for other high-paying jobs in Texas:

• ❄️ HVAC License Requirements in Texas
  Step-by-step guide to becoming an AC technician.
• 🚰 Plumbing License Guide Texas
  How to become a licensed plumber in Texas.
• 🏗️ General Contractor License in Texas
  Start your own construction business.