Electrician Schools in Virginia

After carefully consuming the contents outlined on this page, interested individuals should understand everything they need to know to start a long and successful career as electricians in Virginia. They will become familiar with the profession’s scope and understand the basic requirements expected of them and their alternatives to foundational training.

We also explore the licensure and certification requirements needed to be in good standing with the state, take advantage of career growth opportunities, and network with fellow professionals in the field.

Lastly, after discovering some top-class options for their education, candidates will also find the relevant figures to expect concerning their annual average salary.

How to Become an Electrician in Virginia

Aspiring electricians in Virginia may follow the steps below to start their careers properly.

Minimum Requirements

To become an electrician in Virginia, candidates must secure placement into a training program and be at least 20 years old.

They are also expected to have a high school diploma or GED and a basic knowledge of mathematics and basic science topics.

Register as an Apprentice

Aspiring electricians in Virginia must register with the Virginia Department of Labor to receive the practical experience needed to secure an official license and start working professionally.

Students may consider attending an apprenticeship program for their training. An apprenticeship program helps candidates learn in a conducive environment under the tutelage of accomplished contractors.

Once they secure employment, they will also have a chance to participate in real electrical work and get a feel for their duties.

Classroom Training

Virginia’s community colleges and technical schools also offer top-class training for students seeking a diploma, certificate, or associate degree in electrical technology. These credentials are usually highly rated among employers.

Of course, it is also possible for some students to combine both academic training and apprenticeship training. Some community colleges offer electrical technology programs in partnership with apprenticeship programs.

Earn a License

After completing their training, candidates may apply for a state license. From there, they may choose a specialty and secure employment at their company of choice.

Below, we explore the steps needed to apply for an electrician license in Virginia.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) issues electric licenses to Virginia electricians through the Virginia Board for Contractors.

However, the Virginia Department of Labor offers the apprentice electrician approval.

As mentioned earlier, aspiring electricians in Virginia must obtain classroom training and practical experience, the exact duration and volume of which are flexible.

For instance, the state accepts 5 years of practical experience with 160 hours of classroom instruction or 6 years of practical experience with 80 hours of classroom instruction.

Forty hours of classroom instruction are also acceptable, with seven or more years of practical experience.

Top Electrician Schools in Virginia

The following are some of the best training programs for future electricians in Virginia to consider.

Explore electrician schools in Virginia by city:

• Electrician schools in Virginia Beach

Apprenticeship Programs

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association offer electrical apprenticeship programs in Newport News and Ashland, overseen by the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee.

Salary & Career Outlook

As for the relevant figures to expect concerning their annual average salary, electricians in Virginia will be happy to know that they can earn an annual average salary as high as $110,027 — when they eventually get settled into the profession.

However, the figure is usually low when starting. For instance, at the base level, electricians in the state may take home an annual average salary of $35,489. The most common are those in the average category, with an annual salary of around $62,488.

One thing an electrician can do to increase their chances of a better salary in Virginia is to work in a favorable city. Currently, the most notable options in this regard include Chesterfield, with an annual average salary of $74,702; Richmond, with an annual average salary of $63,131; Christiansburg, with an annual average salary of $62,618; and Hampton, with an annual average salary of $61,195.

Electricians in Roanoke earn an annual average salary of $57,281.