How to Get Your Massachusetts Electrical License

  • Posted by Melanie Klag
    How to Get Your Massachusetts Electrical License

    A Massachusetts electrical license is an essential requirement for establishing a permanent career in the electrical industry across the state. It’s necessary for all work projects – from residential buildings to extensive commercial construction sites.  

    The Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians (BSEE) provides official credentials across multiple licensing types. These licensures help electricians build professional credibility while increasing earnings potential and providing legal safeguards and business expansion opportunities. 

    Briefly stated:

    • Eligibility involves completing an apprenticeship, on-the-job hours, and classroom training for Journeyman; more experience is needed for Master.
    • Applications go through the MA Board of State Examiners of Electricians, and exams are scheduled with approved providers.
    • Costs cover application, exam, and licensing, with renewals requiring continuing education.
    • Processing times can vary, so it’s good to allow a few weeks after approval. 

    Types of Electrical Licenses in Massachusetts Electrical License System 

    Massachusetts divides electrical licensing into several classifications. Understanding the landscape helps you plan your path. 

    License Type 

    Scope of Work 

    Typical Requirements 

    Apprentice Electrician 

    Works under supervision; training stage 

    Registration with BSEE; accumulating work hours (e.g., 8 000 hours) + classroom instruction. 

    Journeyman Electrician (Class B) 

    Performs electrical work under a Master license 

    4 years (≈ 8 000 hours) of on-the-job work + 600 hours of classroom instruction. 

    Master Electrician (Class A) 

    Own business, supervise others, pull permits 

    Must hold Journeyman license + at least 1 year (≈ 2 000 hours) experience + 150 hours of classroom instruction. 

    Systems Contractor/Systems Technician (Class C & D) 

    Limited-energy systems (fire alarms, telecom, security) 

    Varies: e.g., Systems Technician: 4 000 hours + 300 hours education; Systems Contractor: 1 year as tech + 75 hours education. 

    Education and Experience Requirements for the Massachusetts Electrical License 

    Before you sit for an exam, Massachusetts requires you to meet both work and classroom milestones: 

    For a Journeyman license: You must complete about 8,000 hours of work (approx. 4 years) under a licensed electrician, combined with roughly 600 hours of board-approved classroom instruction. 

    For a Master license: You must hold the Journeyman license, then complete at least one year (2,000 hours) of work as a Journeyman, and at least 150 hours of classroom instruction before applying.  

    For systems licenses: To become a systems technician, it requires ~4 000 hours (2 years) experience and 300 hours of education. Earning a systems contractor designation adds a supervisory year plus 75 hours of classroom education. 

    No matter where you want to take your career in the Bay State, we can show you how to become a contractor in Massachusetts! 

    Beyond hours and schooling, you’ll need to submit your application to the BSEE via the Mass.gov portal, provide proof of your work/education, pay fees, and schedule your exam. 

    The Massachusetts Electrical Exams 

    Once you’ve met the prerequisites, you’ll take the exams: 

    The Journeyman exam covers the Massachusetts Electrical Code (527 CMR), the National Electrical Code (NEC) as amended for MA, and basic business and law topics. 

    The Master exam builds upon everything in the journeyman exam with advanced NEC topics, Massachusetts amendments, estimating, supervisory knowledge, and business law. 

    For systems licenses, the exam focuses on low-voltage systems and codes specific to fire alarms/telecom/security systems. 

    The testing vendor in Massachusetts is PSI Services LLC, so you’ll apply via PSI to schedule the exam. Fees vary, but you should prepare ~$100-150 per section.  

    Application Process and Fees 

    The following plan presents a direct method to achieve the goal. 

    • Verify your qualifications to match the requirements for your chosen license type (refer to the previous section).
    • Collect all required documents including proof of classroom hours, work records and/or apprenticeship contracts, and CORI (criminal record check) forms.
    • Apply to the BSEE (via Mass .gov) for your specific license type. Pay the application fee (e.g., ~$31 or more depending on level). 
    • Schedule and pass the exam via PSI. 
    • Pay the initial licensing fee, receive your license, and begin legally performing the work your license permits. 

    Precisely following the instructions matters because any mistake will trigger approval delays that will result in lost time. 

    MA Renewal & Continuing Education Requirements 

    Once your license is issued, you are all set to work. However, you must stay current and meet all renewal requirements. 

    Electrical licenses in Massachusetts must be renewed every three years. During that period, you must complete 21 hours of continuing education, including at least 15 hours of code-update instruction and 6 hours of professional development. 

    Renewal is processed via the BSEE’s online portal (ePLACE). Keeping up with these requirements protects your license status and your business. 

    Career Outlook, Salary & Growth Potential with a Massachusetts Electrical License 

    A Massachusetts electrical license provides access to better compensation, increased work duties, business ownership opportunities, and advanced project possibilities. 

    The salary information for Massachusetts electrical workers shows some variation, but here are some data points that showcase earnings potential: 

    A master license combined with your work experience will help you achieve your business ownership dreams and crew supervision and renewable energy or industrial specialization goals. 

    Why Getting a Massachusetts Electrical License Matters 

    Here are a few key take-aways: 

    • You must be licensed to legally perform major electrical work in Massachusetts. 
    • Licensing shows that you meet rigorous education, experience, and exam standards, boosting your credibility with clients and permitting authorities.
    • With a license, you can pull permits, supervise others, be the responsible party in projects, and potentially scale a business. 

    The money spent on education and training leads to better job prospects and financial security. 

    Are You Ready to Get Your MA Electrical License? 

    Are you prepared to advance your career? Contractor Training Center’s exam preparation program exists to assist future licensees in developing their code of expertise and business law understanding for successful Massachusetts licensing exam passage. 

    Your professional development follows a purposeful plan, which you can control. The Massachusetts electrical license serves as your key to accessing advanced career opportunities. Our Massachusetts Electrical Exam Prep Course launches in January 2026. Discover more about the upcoming program (and earn an early-bird discount). 

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