Introduction to Electrical License Reciprocity

Becoming a journeyman electrician is a milestone in an electrician’s career, representing a level of proficiency and commitment to the trade. The journey typically involves accumulating around 8,000 hours of hands-on work as well as some schooling, which qualifies you to sit for a state exam. Passing this rigorous test earns you a journeyman electrician certification within that state—a testament to your skills and knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and other state-specific regulations.

Once certified, your journeyman license is your passport to professional practice. But what if your path leads you across state lines, whether due to a move, a desire to expand your job opportunities, or for personal growth? Normally, you’d have to meet the new state’s prerequisites, which might mirror the requirements of your home state, allowing you to sit for another state exam.

 

However, the landscape of licensure can be streamlined through the convenience of electrical license reciprocity agreements. These agreements are designed to simplify the process of obtaining licensure in a new state, eliminating the need to retake examinations or complete additional hours if you’re already licensed and in good standing with your home state.

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How Electrical license Reciprocity Agreements Work

Reciprocity can significantly ease the transition by waiving the need for further exams. For instance, if you’ve put in 8,000 hours on the job in Minnesota to earn your license, that effort can be recognized in Arkansas through a reciprocity agreement. Instead of navigating the apprenticeship requirements unique to Arkansas, your Minnesota licensure would grant you a reciprocal license, provided Arkansas has an agreement with Minnesota.

It’s crucial to remember that these agreements aren’t universal. Not all states participate, and reciprocity isn’t always mutual. For example, while West Virginia might waive its state exam for license holders from any of the 50 states, only a select few states reciprocate by recognizing a West Virginia license.
Navigating the nuances of Electrical License Reciprocity can open doors to new opportunities and broaden the horizons of your electrician career. It’s all about understanding the agreements in place and leveraging them to your advantage.

Electrical Reciprocity Agreements By State Table Format

To use the table below, find the state you wish to obtain a new license in, and see if they have a reciprocity agreement with the state you are currently licensed in.

To waive license
requirements in		You need to have a current license inWebsiteApplication
AlabamaNo Reciprocity Agreements
AlaskaArkansas, Colorado, Iowa,
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska
New Mexico, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Oklahmoma Texas, Wyoming		WebsiteApplication
ArizonaNo Reciprocity Agreements
ArkansasAlaska, New Mexico, Minnesota,
Montana, New Hampshire,
Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota
Texas, Utah, Colorado, Oregon
(For master license only)		Website
CaliforniaNo Reciprocity Agreements
ColoradoAlaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa,
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska,
New Hampshire, New Mexico,
North Dakota, Oklahoma,
South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming		WebsiteApplication
ConnecticutNo reciprocity agreements
DelawareApproved on a case by case basis.
Must be licensed in a jurisdiction
that has substantially similair
license requirements to Delaware.		Website 1

Website 2		Online Application Portal
Florida No reciprocity agreements
GeorgiaNo Reciprocity Agreements
HawaiiNo reciprocity agreements
IdahoColorado, North Dakota, Maine,
Oklahoma, Montana, Oregon,
Nebraska, South Dakota, New
Hampshire, Texas, New Mexico,
Wyoming		Website 1

Website 2		Application
IllinoisNo reciprocity agreements
IndianaNo reciprocity agreements
IowaAlaska, Arkansas, Colorado,
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska,
North Dakota, Oklahoma, South
Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin		Website 1

Website 2		Application
KansasNo reciprocity agreements
KentuckyLouisiana, Ohio, Virginia, West
Virginia		WebsiteApplication
LouisianaNo reciprocity agreements
MaineJourneyman: New Hampshire,
Vermont, North Dakota, Idaho,
Oregon, Wyoming. Master: New
Hampshire, Vermont		Website 1

Website 2		Application
MarylandMaryland, Washington, DC, West
Virginia, Delaware. Requirements
vary a lot by state, refer to website		WebsiteApplication
Massachusetts
New HampshireWebsiteApplication
MichiganNo reciprocity agreements
MinnesotaJourneyman: Alaska, Arkansas
Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska,
North Dakota, South Dakota,
Wyoming
Master: Iowa, North Dakota, South
Dakota, Nebraska		WebsiteApplication
MississippiNo reciprocity agreements
MissouriNo reciprocity agreements
MontanaArkansas, Arizona, Colorado,
Minnesota, North Dakota, Nebraska,
New Hampshire, New Mexico,
Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas,
Utah, Wyoming, Idaho		WebsiteApplication
NebraskaAlaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa,
Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, New
Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma,
South Dakota, Texas, Wyoming		WebsiteApplication
NevadaNo reciprocity agreements
New Hampshire
Journeyman: Alaska, Arkansas,
Colorado, Montana, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin,
Wyoming, Iowa.
Master: Maine, Massachusetts,
Vermont		WebsiteApplication
New JerseyNo reciprocity agreements
New MexicoAlaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho,
Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma,
South Dakota, Texas, Utah,
Wyoming		Website 1

Website 2		Application
New YorkNo reciprocity agreements
North Carolina
No reciprocity agreements
North DakotaJourneyman: Alaska, Colorado,
Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Montana,
Nebraska, New Hampshire, Utah,
Wyoming
Master: Minnesota, South Dakota		WebsiteApplication
OhioNo reciprocity agreements
OklahomaAlaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho,
Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, South
Dakota, Texas, Wyoming		WebsiteApplication
OregonArkansas, Idaho, Maine, Montana
Utah, Washington, Wyoming		WebsiteApplication
PennsylvaniaNo reciprocity agreements
Rhode IslandNo reciprocity agreements
South Carolina
No reciprocity agreements
South DakotaAlaska, Arkansas, Colorado,
Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana,
Nebraska, New Hampshire, New
Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma,
South Dakota, Texas, Utah,
Wyoming		WebsiteApplication
TennesseeNo reciprocity agreements
TexasJourneyman: Alaska, Arkansas,
Idaho, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska,
New Mexico, Oklahoma, South
Dakota, Wyoming
Master: North Carolina		WebsiteFrom website, click state you want
application for
UtahAlabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California,
Colorado, Connecticut, South Dakota, Delaware,
New Hampshire, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa,
New Jersey, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts,
New Mexico, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana,
Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island,
Texas, Vermont, West Virginia, Virginia,
Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming		Website 1

PDF		Application
VermontMaine, New HampshireWebsiteApplication
VirginiaKentucky, Maryand, West Virginia,
North Carolina.

Ref		WebsiteApplication
WashingtonOregon.

Ref		WebsiteApplication
West VirginiaAll 50 StatesWebsiteOnline Application Portal
WisconsinIowa, New Hampshire WebsiteApplication
WyomingJourneyman: Alaska, Colorado,
Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, Montana,
Nebraska, New Hamshire, New
Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma,
Oregon, South Dakota, Texas,
Iowa.
Master: Idaho, South Dakota, Iowa		WebsiteOnline Application Portal

State-by-State Electrical License Reciprocity Guide

Navigating electrical license reciprocity can be complex, with each state’s requirements differing significantly. This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for journeyman electricians seeking information on transferring their credentials from one state to another.

Here, you’ll find detailed breakdowns of reciprocity agreements, application prerequisites, and essential contacts to facilitate your licensure across state lines. Whether you’re planning a move or expanding your work territory, understanding these nuances is key to a seamless transition in your professional journey.

Alaska Electrical License Reciprocity

Alaska has electrician license reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming. Alaska no longer maintains a reciprocity agreement with Utah.

Application Requirements for Alaska

To apply for a reciprocal electrical journeyman’s license in Alaska, you must:

  • Provide a copy of your current Electrical Journeyman License from one of the reciprocal states.
  • Have held the reciprocal state’s license for at least one year, and it must be active at the time of reciprocation.
  • Submit a current picture ID (driver’s license, state ID, etc.).
  • Include a passport or digital photo at least 2”x2”, showing a clear head and shoulders view against a white or very light-colored background.

Fees and Contact Information for Alaska

The total fee for the reciprocity application is $250.00, which includes a $50.00 application fee and a $200.00 fee for a 2-year license. Payments should be made to the State of Alaska.

For more information or assistance with the reciprocity process, contact Mechanical Inspection at:

  • Address: 1251 Muldoon Road, Suite 113, Anchorage, AK 99504
  • Phone: 907-269-4925
  • Fax: 907-269-4932
  • Email: [email protected]

Application Process for Alaska

Applicants interested in applying for electrician license reciprocity in Alaska can begin their application process by accessing the Application for Certificate of Fitness. Visit the official website or contact Mechanical Inspection directly for the application form and additional guidance.

Colorado Electrical License Reciprocity

Colorado, following the bylaws of the National Electrical Reciprocal Alliance (NERA), offers journeyman electrician reciprocal licensing agreements with Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.

Application Requirements for Colorado

Applicants seeking a reciprocal journeyman electrician license in Colorado must:

  • Hold a current, active, and good standing journeyman or master electrician certificate that qualifies them to work as a journeyman electrician in their licensing state.
  • Have obtained their certificate through a state-administered examination in the licensing state, with a passing score.
  • Have held the journeyman or master electrician certificate for at least one year in the licensing state.

The Colorado Electrical Board issues certificates without a written examination to applicants who meet these requirements, provided they have not been grandfathered into their current certificate without passing a state-administered examination.

Fees and Contact Information for Colorado

For specific information regarding the application fees and any inquiries related to the reciprocity process, applicants can reach out to:

  • Division of Professions and Occupations
  • Address: 1560 Broadway, Suite 1350, Denver, CO 80202
  • Phone: 303-894-7800
  • Fax: 303-894-7693
  • Email: [email protected]

Application Process for Colorado

Electricians seeking a reciprocal license in Colorado can start their application by filling out the required form and submitting it. The form is accessible through the provided link: Download the Reciprocal License Application Form. Ensure all parts of the application are completed accurately and submitted to the Division of Professions and Occupations at the address listed above, along with any necessary documentation and the applicable fees.

Colorado Reciprocity Agreement
DOWNLOAD

Delaware Electrical License Reciprocity

Delaware evaluates electrician license reciprocity on a case-by-case basis, assessing if the licensure requirements from other jurisdictions are substantially similar to Delaware’s standards. This approach ensures that electricians with a current journeyperson license from another state, U.S. territory, or the District of Columbia can apply for reciprocity in Delaware, facilitating their ability to work across state lines under Delaware’s regulations.

Application Requirements for Delaware

Applicants seeking reciprocity in Delaware must:

  • Hold a current journeyperson license issued by another state, U.S. territory, or the District of Columbia.
  • Ensure the Board determines that at least one jurisdiction where they hold a license has licensure requirements substantially similar to those of Delaware, negating the need for five years of full-time experience.
  • If no jurisdiction has similar requirements but the applicant has five years of full-time, supervised experience, they qualify for reciprocity without needing to pass an exam.
  • Applicants who do not meet these criteria must pass the journeyperson exam in Delaware.

Applying for a License in Delaware

All applications for electrician license reciprocity must be submitted through Delaware’s online system, DELPROS. To apply:

  1. Visit https://delpros.delaware.gov/OH_HomePage.
  2. Click “Apply/Manage a License and Service Requests” and either log in or register for a new user account if you haven’t already.
  3. Follow the instructions for applying, which include saving incomplete applications to return to later. Applications must be completed within six months from the start date.

Documentation and Verification

In addition to the application and fee, applicants must provide:

  • State/Jurisdiction Licensure Verification from every jurisdiction where they currently hold or have held a license.
  • For reciprocity applicants: Links or copies of laws and regulations from jurisdictions where they hold a license and verification of five years of licensed, full-time experience under a licensed master electrician.

Idaho Electrical License Reciprocity

Idaho has electrician license reciprocity agreements with Colorado, North Dakota, Maine, Oklahoma, Montana, Oregon, Nebraska, South Dakota, New Hampshire, Texas, New Mexico, and Wyoming. These agreements enable electricians licensed in these states to apply for a reciprocal license in Idaho, provided they meet certain criteria.

Application Requirements for Idaho

To apply for a reciprocal electrical license in Idaho, applicants must submit:

  • A License Verification Form completed by the state of licensure. The verification must include:
  • Proof of licensure by examination.
  • A list of the requirements for licensure from the other state, including hours worked and schooling.
  • The status of the license, which must be active.
  • The date the license was originally issued.

This information is crucial for the Idaho licensing board to determine the eligibility for reciprocity based on the similarity of licensure requirements and the verification of the applicant’s qualifications.

Submitting Your Application

Applicants can submit their reciprocity application and the required License Verification Form via email to Idaho’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses. Ensure all parts of your application are complete and accurately reflect your licensure status and history.

Iowa Electrical License Reciprocity

Iowa has electrician license reciprocity agreements with the following states: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These agreements are designed to streamline the process for electricians who are already licensed in these states to work legally in Iowa.

Application Requirements for Iowa

To be eligible for a reciprocal electrical license in Iowa, applicants must:

  • Have passed a State-sponsored examination in one of the reciprocal states with a score of 70% or greater.
  • Have held the qualifying license for at least one year, during which the license must not have been expired, suspended, or revoked.
  • Not have taken and failed the Iowa electrical examination.
  • Meet additional Iowa licensure requirements deemed necessary for reciprocation.

These conditions ensure that only qualified electricians who meet Iowa’s standards can benefit from reciprocity agreements.

Apply for an Electrical License in Iowa

Electricians interested in applying for license reciprocity in Iowa should:

  1. Visit the official Iowa electrical licensing website at iowaelectrical.gov.
  2. Click on the bottom orange tab labeled “Electrical Licensing System” to access the online application portal.

This portal provides a streamlined application process, guiding applicants through the necessary steps to submit their application for reciprocity.

Maine Electrical License Reciprocity

The Maine Electricians’ Examining Board offers reciprocity for the following positions and states: New Hampshire, Vermont, North Dakota, Idaho, Oregon, Wyoming.

Application Requirements for Maine

To qualify for a reciprocal journeyman electrician license in Maine, applicants must:

  • File an application with the Maine Electricians’ Examining Board.
  • Demonstrate active engagement as a licensed electrician for the minimum number of required hours.
  • Be licensed by another state that has a reciprocity agreement with the State of Maine.

Documents Required for Licensure Consideration

Journeyman Electrician applicants must submit:

  • A completed, signed, and dated license application.
  • The application fee, payable to “Maine State Treasurer” or completed debit/credit card payment options on the application.
  • License Verification showing evidence of current licensure as a Journeyman electrician from the reciprocating state, including license number, initial date of issuance, expiration date, current license status, and any disciplinary history. Electronic license verifications must include the web address and the date the verification was printed.
  • Affidavit(s) demonstrating at least 8,000 hours of work in the field of electrical installations.

Fees and Contact Information for Maine

Applicants are required to pay the specified application fee along with their submission. For detailed information on fees and additional inquiries related to the reciprocity process, contact:

  • Maine Electricians’ Examining Board
  • Mailing Address: 35 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333-0035
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone Number: (207) 624 – 8457

Maryland Electrical License Reciprocity

Maryland has entered into reciprocal licensing agreements for master electricians with West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, and the District of Columbia. Additionally, journeyman electricians holding a current license from local jurisdictions obtained by examination and in good standing are also eligible for reciprocity.

Application Requirements for Maryland

Master electricians seeking reciprocity in Maryland must:

  • Hold a current, active, and good standing master electrician license issued by either Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, or the District of Columbia.
  • Have passed the written licensure exam in the state where the license was issued.
  • Have held the license for at least two years if issued by West Virginia, or at least five years if issued by Delaware, in good standing.

Journeyman electricians can apply for reciprocity if they:

  • Have a current license from one of the local jurisdictions that was obtained by examination.
  • Ensure the local Master’s license is also in good standing, as stated for the reciprocating states.

Applying for a Reciprocal License in Maryland

To apply for a reciprocal electrician license in Maryland:

  1. Complete the application process online at the Maryland Department of Labor’s website: Apply for a Reciprocal License online.
  2. Follow the instructions to log in or create a new user account and fill out the application form.

Additional Information and Contact

For more detailed information regarding the application fees, specific documentation required, and any inquiries related to the reciprocity process, applicants can contact:

Massachusetts Electrical License Reciprocity

The Board of State Examiners of Electricians in Massachusetts has a reciprocity agreement with New Hampshire for both Journeyman and Master electrician licenses. This agreement is contingent on the license being obtained by examination in New Hampshire and meeting standards substantially the same as those of Massachusetts.

Application Requirements for Massachusetts

To apply for reciprocity in Massachusetts, applicants must:

  • Obtain a license verification/certified letter of good standing from the New Hampshire Board, including the applicant’s name, address, license type and number, and current status.
  • Complete and notarize a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Authorization Form.
  • Submit a recent, passport-quality color photograph.
  • If applicable, provide documentation detailing any disciplinary actions against any professional license held in any jurisdiction, along with certified copies of disciplinary documents.
  • If applicable, submit documentation detailing all prior felony or misdemeanor convictions, including certified court records.

Fees and Contact Information for Massachusetts

The application fees for reciprocity are non-refundable:

  • Journeyman: $208 each
  • Master: $310 each

For more information or assistance with the reciprocity process, contact:

Application Process for Massachusetts

Applications for electrician license reciprocity must be submitted online through the Division of Occupational Licensure’s (DOL) ePLACE portal. Applicants are required to upload electronic copies of all supporting documents as part of their application. It’s advisable for applicants to retain original copies of all supporting documents, as they may be requested by the Board.

Minnesota Electrical License Reciprocity

Minnesota offers a streamlined path to licensure for journeyworker and master electricians licensed in certain states, allowing them to obtain a Minnesota license without the need for further examination. This reciprocity is available for journeyworker electricians from Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Similarly, master electricians from Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska can also benefit from these agreements, provided their licenses were obtained by state-level examination.

Application Requirements for Minnesota

To qualify for reciprocal licensure in Minnesota, electricians must ensure they have not previously failed an examination for the same or greater class of license within the state. Applicants must have achieved their current license through an examination at the state level and held it for at least one year. The license must be current and in good standing, and the applicant should not be under any orders that would affect their licensure status in Minnesota. A non-refundable application and examination fee of $50 is required upon submission. Once approved, an additional license fee must be paid to issue the license.

Fees and Contact Information for Minnesota

Applicants are advised to submit the application fee with their initial application and prepare to submit the required license fee upon approval. For further details on the fees, application process, or any other inquiries, contact:

Montana Electrical License Reciprocity

Montana distinguishes between reciprocal and endorsement states, with specific requirements for each:

  • Reciprocal States: Electricians from AK, AR, CO, IA, ID, ME, MN, ND, NE, NH, NM, OK, SD, TX, WI, and WY can obtain a Montana license if their current license is active, in good standing, and has been held for at least one year. License verification will be obtained by board staff.
  • Endorsement States: For those from AL, CA, CT, DC, DE, FL, HI, KY, MA, MI, NJ, OR, RI, UT, VA, VT, WA, and WV, applicants must provide license verification. Licenses must be active, held for at least one year, obtained by state exam with a score of 75% or greater, and free from active complaints.

Fees and Contact Information for Montana

An application fee of $250 is required, payable online for online applications or by check for paper submissions. For further assistance or more detailed information regarding the application process and requirements, reach out to the Montana State Electrical Board:

Application Process for Montana

Journeyman electricians aiming for licensure in Montana through reciprocity or endorsement must submit:

  • Official license verification from states where the applicant holds or has ever held a license.
  • For those applying by endorsement, ensure endorsement state verification is included with your application.

You can apply online at https://ebiz.mt.gov/POL/ for efficiency and ease, or download a paper application from the website. Be sure to include a valid email address with your application for vital communications from the department.