How to Become a Journeyman Electrician in Texas

Journeyman electricians working in Texas must earn a Journeyman Electrician License.

Journeyman Electricians install and troubleshoot electrical systems and components of these systems for residential and commercial use. Job duties include supervising teams, reviewing electrical blueprints and schematics and ensuring all zoning and regulatory electrical code rules are followed during a project. Knowledge of National Electrical Codes (NEC) and the ability to read blueprints and other technical documents is necessary. To work as a Journeyman Electrician in Texas, you must pass an exam to earn a license.

Things You'll Need

• Journeyman Electrician License Application
• Electrician Experience Verification form
• Exam Registration form
• National Electrical Code, 2008 Edition
• Proof of identification

Instructions

1. Complete at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with a Master Electrician to qualify for the Journeyman Electrician exam. Print an Electrician Experience Verification form from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation website for your supervisor or employer to fill out and sign. Letters of reference from supervisors are also acceptable.

2. Download a Journeyman Electrician License Application from the TDLR website. Mail completed application, a $35 licensing fee (as of May 2010) and Electrician Experience Verification form or letters of reference to TDLR.

   TDLR
   P.O. Box 12157
   Austin, TX 78711

3. Schedule an appointment to take the Journeyman Electrician exam after receiving notice of application approval from TDLR. This exam is given by PSI Services, LLC at a cost of $78 (as of May 2010). Visit PSI Services website to schedule an exam, contact their offices at 800-733-9267 to use the Autmomated Reservation System 24 hours a day or download an exam registration form from the PSI Electrician Candidate Information Bulletin (CIB). The CIB is available on the TDLR website. Mail or fax registration form and payment information to PSI Services.

   PSA Services, LLC
   ATTN: Examination Registration TX EL
   3210 E. Tropicana
   Las Vegas, NV 89121
   Fax: [phone]

4. Purchase the National Electrical Code, 2008 Edition at an electrical supply store or on line to use during the exam. The exam consists of 80 questions. You must score 75 percent or higher to pass. You will have four hours to complete the exam. Bring one form of ID, such as a driver's license or passport, with you to the testing site. After passing the exam, TDLR will send you licensing documentation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you hold a valid journeyman electrician license in Wyoming, Washington or Arkansas, apply for reciprocity to avoid having to take the exam. Submit a Journeyman Electrician License Application by Reciprocity to TDLR.

• If you cancel your exam appointment less than two days before the exam, miss the apporintment, arrive late or forget to bring proof of identification to the testing site, you will forfeit exam fees and have to reschedule the exam appointment.

References

• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation: Electrician Candidate Information

Resources

• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation: Journeyman Electrician License Application
• Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation: Reciprocity License Application