How to Become an Electrical Contractor in Louisiana

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical components and systems. They’re expert troubleshooters and skilled problem solvers. A contractor's license is required in Louisiana for any electrical work to any structure, building, or project where the value exceeds $10,000.

Electricians are in demand in every state, making now an excellent time to become an electrician and work your way toward licensure as an electrical contractor. Louisiana requires on-the-job experience and classroom hours to get licensed. However, with an apprenticeship program, you can begin earning from day one.

The Bureau of Labor Statics reports an 11% growth rate over the next decade, which is much faster than other fields in the construction industry. According to Zip Recruiter, electrical contractors earn an average salary of $63,133, with top earners bringing home well over $100,000 a year.

Education and Training Requirements

To become an electrical trainee or apprentice in Louisiana, you need to be 18 with a high school diploma or equivalent. Many electricians will have foundational knowledge in math equivalent to at least one year of high school algebra.

Electrical apprenticeship programs are offered through the local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). The JATC has facilities in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, Monroe, New Orleans, and Shreveport. Apprenticeship programs offer on-the-job training and classroom hours.

Electrical Contractor Licensing Requirements in Louisiana

Louisiana classifies their licenses based on four types: major classification, subclassification, special classification, and credential. Electrical contractors fall under the major classification, which allows them to bid or perform work on any of the subclassifications or specialty type work under their respective major classification.

For electrical contractors, that includes electrical transmission lines, electrical controls, instrumentation, and calibration, telecommunications, low voltage, and electrical labor.

To become a licensed electrical contractor, you must have a combination of hands-on work experience and classroom hours, take and pass the trade exam, and demonstrate a minimum net worth. 

Trade Exam

You are required to pass a trade exam. The trade exam has 80 multiple-choice questions with a four-hour time limit to complete the exam. You must get a minimum score of 70 to pass. The exam is open book; however, the books are provided for you by the testing center.

The trade exam covers: 

The best way to prepare for your trade exam is to take an exam preparation course, such as the National NASCLA Electrical Exam Prep Course. Exam prep courses not only teach you the material you need to pass the exam, but they also teach you how to take standardized timed tests.

Business and Law Course

A business and law course is required. The course covers the following topics:

Financial Requirement

All applicants must submit a financial statement showing a net worth of at least $10,000. The financial statement must be completed by a CPA, bookkeeper, or accountant.

Insurance

Certificate of Insurance is required showing a minim of $100,000 in General Liability coverage. If you plan to hire employees, you must show proof of Workers’ Compensation. Proof of insurance must be submitted by your insurance agent.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

While continuing education (CE) is not required to renew your license, it is one of the best ways to keep current with industry trends. The Contractor Training Center is an approved provider for Louisiana and offers several courses in labor laws and running a business in the construction industry.

The state sends license renewal notifications via email 60 days and 15 days prior to the expiration date. Contractors have the option of renewing for one-, two-, or three-year periods. Your license cannot be renewed any sooner than 60 days prior to the expiration date. If you do not renew your license within one year of expiration, you will be required to reapply and pay the application fees. However, you may not be required to take the trade exam a second time, provided you have the same qualifier and classification.

Why Choose Our Electrician Licensing Exam Prep School?

Becoming an electrician can be a rewarding and lucrative career with a lot of room for growth. In Louisiana, you’ll need to move through the ranks of apprentice and journeyman electrician before you can apply for your master electrician or electrical contractor license.