Licensing Guides
Indiana Electrical License: How to Become an Electrician in Indiana
Electrical, IN
May 5th, 2026
Joanne Bratton
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Indiana
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Indiana?
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Indiana?
How Long Does It Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Indiana?
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Indiana?
Does My Indiana Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Indiana?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrical Work in Indiana?
Working with electricity is a dangerous and demanding job, but with the right education and training you can learn how to do it right and become an electrical professional in Indiana.
Everyone needs an electrician at some point. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are 818,700 electricians nationwide and 17,370 in Indiana.
The national number is predicted to grow 10% from 2024 to 2034, adding more than 80,000 to the ranks of this important workforce. In Indiana, that growth rate is expected to be at 7%, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website.
Contractors struggle to find skilled tradesmen like plumbers, electricians, and HVAC or mechanical professionals, while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, construction employment in Indiana in July 2025 totaled 167,900, a decrease of 1,300 (-0.8%) from July 2024 and an increase of 17,800 (12%) from February 2020. So, if you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from.
Licensing Requirements for Electrical Contractors in Indiana
Is a license required for electricians in Indiana? Yes.
However, electrical licenses are issued by individual cities and counties, not at the state level. This means license types and licensing requirements vary based on the jurisdiction. We’ll cover the electrical licensing requirements of the two most populous cities in the state: Indianapolis and Fort Wayne.
In Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services issues licenses for electrical contractors. In Fort Wayne, the Allen County Building Department licenses electrical supervisors and journeymen, and requires electrical businesses and apprentices to register with the department.
It’s important to contact the cities and counties where you plan to work to ensure you meet local licensing requirements.
Steps to Get an Electrical License in Indiana
In Indiana, the licensing process for electricians varies based on the local jurisdiction. To get an electrical contractor license in Indianapolis, follow these steps:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have at least six years of work experience in electrical construction, or a combination of work experience and education.
Apply for an exam with the Indianapolis Board of Electrical Examiners.
Appear before the Board of Electrical Examiners. The board determines whether the applicant must pass an exam or apply for a reciprocal license.
Pass an exam, if applicable.
Reappear before the board for orientation.
Submit a contractor application to the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services.
Pay all applicable fees.
How to Become an Electrician in Indiana
To recap, there is no state license for electricians. The steps to obtain an electrician license vary based on the regulations of the municipality or county. To become a licensed electrical contractor in Indianapolis, you must:
Be at least 18 years of age.
Meet the experience and/or educational requirements.
Pass an electrical exam.
Pay all applicable fees.
Below are the specifics for each license.
Indianapolis
ELECTRICAL MASTER AND ELECTRICAL RESIDENTIAL CRAFT LICENSE
Work experience: Each electrical contractor business must employ at least one electrical master or residential license holder who has passed the required exam. To be eligible to take an exam, you must have at least six years of experience working in electrical construction.
The Board of Electrical Examiners may accept up to two years of experience for completed accredited college courses, technical certificates, and/or diplomas. The board also may accept up to two years of experience for completing an electrical apprenticeship program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Apply for exam: Submit a completed Board of Electrical Examiners application 10 days before the board meeting. Appear before the board.
Pass exam: The board determines whether an applicant must take an exam or apply for a reciprocal license. For those who must take an exam, the board provides the applicant with information about the appropriate International Code Council (ICC) exam.
Apply for license: Since this license is for the qualifying individual for a contracting business, the application is within the electrical contractor business application. More information is listed below.
Pay fees: $377 for a two-year license. Fees are prorated based on when you apply in the license cycle.
Limitations: The residential electrician license only permits electrical work on one- or two-family residential structures.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR BUSINESS LICENSE
License holder: Each electrical contractor business must employ at least one electrical license holder who meets the work experience requirements and has passed the required exam. Information on the individual license is listed above.
Apply for electrical business license: Submit a completed electrical contractor license application to the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services. The application contains an application page for the qualifying electrical license holder.
Obtain bond: Obtain a $10,000 surety bond.
Proof of insurance: Show proof of general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000 for each occurrence of death or bodily injury, and $100,000 for each occurrence of property damage. Or, businesses may obtain a minimum of $500,000 per occurrence for combined coverage of both bodily injury and property damage. Businesses must also obtain workers’ compensation insurance, if applicable.
Pay fees: Pay the $247 fee for a two-year business license. Fees are prorated based on when you apply in the license cycle. Note: If you own a sole proprietorship, you only pay the electrical license holder fee of $377, also prorated based on when you apply.
Increased authority: Electrical contractors can own their own businesses, advertise electrical services, contract electrical work, and pull electrical permits.
Fort Wayne/Allen County
ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE REGISTRATION
Register: Electrical contractors register apprentices with the Allen County Building Department. Apprentices do not hold a license. Contractors may use the city’s online portal to add apprentices to their business.
Pay fees: $10 annual registration fee.
Limitations: Electrical apprentices may only work under the direct supervision of either a licensed electrical supervisor or an electrical journeyman who is present on the job.
ELECTRICAL JOURNEYMAN LICENSE
Work experience: Electrical journeyman applicants must have completed a four-year apprenticeship consisting of 7,000 hours. Approved apprenticeship program schooling may count for 1,000 hours of on-the-job training, which would allow apprentices to take the exam with three years (6,000 hours) of work experience.
Apply for license: Submit a completed trade exam application to the Allen County Building Department or apply for a reciprocal license.
Pay fees: For exam applicants, pay a $25 sponsorship fee. Annual license fee is $15.
Increased authority: Electrical journeymen may supervise electrical apprentices.
ELECTRICAL SUPERVISOR LICENSE
Work experience: An electrical supervisor is considered a master electrician and must have worked four years (7,000 hours) as a journeyman under a licensed electrical contractor.
Apply for license: Submit a completed trade exam application to the Allen County Building Department or apply for a reciprocal license.
Pay fees: For exam applicants, pay a $25 sponsorship fee. Annual license fee is $25.
Increased authority: Electrical supervisors may supervise electrical apprentices. They are considered master electricians and function as the qualifying individual for an electrical contracting business.
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR BUSINESS REGISTRATION
Work experience: An electrical contracting business must employ a licensed electrical supervisor.
Register: Submit a completed trade exam application to the Allen County Building Department or apply for a reciprocal license. The city also offers an online portal for applications.
Pay fees: $90 annual registration fee.
Increased authority: Electrical contractors can own their own businesses, advertise electrical services, contract electrical work, and pull electrical permits.
Types of Electrical Licenses in Indiana
What are the types of electrician licenses in Indiana? Since licenses are issued at the local level, the types of licenses vary based on the jurisdiction. Indianapolis has two types of electrical licenses for individuals who qualify a contracting business, and one electrical contractor business license. Fort Wayne/Allen County has two types of electrical licenses and two types of required registrations.
Indianapolis
Electrical Master Craft License
An electrical contracting business must employ at least one licensee who has met work experience and testing requirements. A master license permits the licensee to perform any type of electrical work.
Electrical Residential Craft License
An electrical contracting business must employ at least one licensee who has met work experience and testing requirements. A residential license only permits electrical work on one- or two-family residential structures.
Electrical Contractor Business License
This business license permits electrical contractor work, which includes connecting electrical power for on-site construction and installing, altering, replacing, servicing, or repairing a system distributing electrical power. It also includes servicing equipment supplying power to factory-constructed dwellings located in a mobile home park and installing, modernizing, replacing, servicing, or repairing an electrical power distribution system. An electrical contractor may also install, modernize, replace, service, or repair space heating or cooling equipment that uses electricity as its primary energy source, excluding work on any refrigerant cycle. Electrical contracting businesses must employ at least one craft licensee.
Fort Wayne/Allen County
Electrical Apprentice Registration
Electrical apprentices may only work under the direct supervision of either a licensed electrical supervisor or an electrical journeyman who is present on the job. They do not hold a license but must register with the Allen County Building Department.
Electrical Journeyman License
An electrical journeyman license is for individuals who install, maintain, alter, or repair residential and/or commercial electrical work under the supervision of a licensed electrical supervisor. Journeymen must have worked as an electrical apprentice for four years (7,000 hours).
Electrical Supervisor License
An electrical supervisor license is for those who supervise and are responsible for the installation, maintenance, alteration, or repair of electrical wiring, electrical devices, electrical appliances, and electrical equipment. An electrical supervisor is considered a master electrician and must have worked four years (7,000 hours) as a journeyman under a licensed electrical contractor.
Electrical Contractor Business Registration
Business registration is required for a business, firm, company, or corporation that performs or contracts electrical contracting work. This includes obtaining permits for installation, alteration, and repair of any electrical wiring devices, appliances, or equipment. An electrical contractor business must employ a licensed electrical supervisor.
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Electrician in Indiana
There are many benefits to obtaining your electrical license from a city or county in Indiana.
First and most importantly, most cities and counties in Indiana require electrical contractors and electricians to obtain a license to legally perform any electrical work.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill.
You begin earning money from the start as an electrical apprentice.
It protects your company and customers.
It gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
As you build on your expertise, your earning potential increases and you have more authority to pull building permits and bid on projects.
What Is the Mean Wage for an Electrical Technician in Indiana?
The annual mean wage for electricians in Indiana is $67,890 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. That salary can increase as you acquire more experience. An electrician salary database, shared with ServiceTitan by Payscale.com, projects the median electrician salary will increase nationally in 2025 by 3.59% for entry-level workers, 3.24% for intermediate level, and 3.15% for senior level electricians. In Indiana those salary projections are:
Entry (<2 years): $58,200
Intermediate (2-4 years): $68,200
Senior (4-7 years): $73,500
Salaries can vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. If you choose to start an electrical business, this blog can give you an idea of how to improve your profit margins.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of an electrical technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based, all-in-one electrician software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive average tickets.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Electrician License in Indiana?
The cost of an electrician license in Indiana varies depending on the local jurisdiction.
Fees in Indianapolis include:
Electrical Master Craft License: $377 for a two-year license
Electrical Residential Craft License: $377 for a two-year license
Electrical Contractor Business License: $247 for a two-year license
Exam fee: Varies based on the type of exam
Fees in Fort Wayne/Allen County include:
Electrical Apprentice Registration: $10 annually
Electrical Journeyman License: $15 annually
Electrical Supervisor License: $25 annually
Electrical Contractor Registration: $90 annually
Exam fee: $25 sponsorship fee
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How Long Does it Take to Get an Electrician Contractors License in Indiana?
The minimum amount of time it takes to get an electrical license depends on the licensing regulations of the local jurisdiction.
In Indianapolis, it takes at least six years working in electrical construction to qualify for an electrical master or residential license. This person is the qualifying individual for a contracting business. The city’s board of electrical examiners may accept up to two years of experience for completed accredited college courses, technical certificates, and/or diplomas, and up to two years of experience for completing an apprenticeship program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
In Fort Wayne, you can become a journeyman electrician with three years (6,000 hours) of work experience, if the county building department approves 1,000 hours of approved apprenticeship program schooling toward your work experience requirement. Otherwise, you’ll need to complete a four-year apprenticeship consisting of 7,000 hours. Those seeking an electrical supervisor license will need to complete four years (7,000 hours) as a journeyman working under a licensed electrical contractor.
The great news is that as an apprentice, you begin earning a wage from the very beginning. Compensation increases each year as you acquire more training and knowledge, until you are a licensed electrician. As a licensed contractor, you can start your own electrical business, be your own boss, and grow your business as much as you want. And we have a tool to help you.
Indiana Electrician Training Programs and Schools
There are many programs to get the training you need to become an electrician in Indiana. Since electrical licenses are issued at the local level, each city or county sets their own licensing requirements.
In Indianapolis, while it takes at least six years working in electrical construction to qualify for a master or residential license, the board of electrical examiners may accept up to two years of experience for completed accredited college courses, technical certificates, and/or diplomas. It may also accept up to two years of experience for completing an apprenticeship program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Apprenticeship Indiana lists approved apprenticeship programs throughout the state. In addition, there are a number of training programs, colleges, and universities offering an electrical apprenticeship combined with an associate’s degree in the electrical field. These include:
Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee in Terre Haute
Ivy Tech Community College (various locations)
Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee 153 in South Bend
In addition, Ivy Tech offers an electrical engineering technology degree in six locations throughout the state: Elkhart, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, South Bend, Terre Haute, and Valparaiso.
Tuition: Tuition cost depends on the program you choose. Some apprenticeships are fully paid by your employer with required good grades. An Indiana state resident can expect to pay about $3,695 per year in tuition at a community college.
Program Prerequisites: You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED.
On-the-Job Experience: While on the job, you will need to use good customer service skills, possess mechanical capability, pay attention to detail, and be physically fit. The job typically includes hours of walking, standing, and working in tight spaces, and includes some heavy lifting.
For more detailed information about electrical school options in Indiana, check out our post — Electrician Schools in Indiana: The Ultimate Guide.
Indiana Electrician Licensing Exam Details
Licensing exams vary based on the city or county where you seek licensing. Some cities may not require a license or an exam. It’s important to check with the local jurisdictions where you plan to work to ensure you meet licensing requirements.
Indianapolis
In Indianapolis, those seeking a master or residential license to become the qualifying individual for an electrical contracting business must pass an exam.
Applicants submit a completed Board of Electrical Examiners application 10 days before the board meeting and must appear before the board. The board determines if the applicant meets the requirements to take the appropriate ICC exam, and provides the applicant with exam information.
When the applicant passes with a score of 75% or higher, the applicant reappears before the board to complete orientation and the application process.
The exam may be waived for applicants who have passed a Prometric exam and hold a valid license in another jurisdiction that holds a reciprocal agreement with Indianapolis. Reciprocal applicants must have the licensing jurisdiction send a letter verifying passing the exam, license status, and reciprocity to the Board of Electrical Examiners.
Fort Wayne/Allen County
In Fort Wayne, electrical license applicants must pass an national electrical exam or apply for a reciprocal license with the Allen County Building Department. The department contacts applicants about how to schedule the exam after they submit a trade exam application and pay a $25 exam sponsorship fee.
ICC electrical exams for journeyman and master applicants are based on the 2020, 2017, and 2014 National Electrical Code (NEC). They are listed in the trade exam application. These exams are open book and have a four-hour time limit. A third-party testing facility sets exam fees.
Applicants who hold a contractor’s license and passed a national exam through ICC or Prometric may be eligible for a reciprocal license, and must contact the building department to confirm reciprocity.
How Can I Prepare for the Electrician License Exam in Indiana?
Whether you need to pass an electrician exam depends on your license and the licensing regulations of the city or county where you’re working. Those who complete an apprenticeship will receive the work experience, training, and knowledge necessary to take the licensing exam.
In Indianapolis, the Board of Electrical Examiners provides applicants with ICC electrical exam information. The ICC also provides study guides and study tips on its study guide page.
In Fort Wayne, two reference books are allowed in the testing facility. These are the 2014 National Electric Code by the National Fire Protection Association and any edition of Ugly’s Electrical References. Exam information is listed on the building department’s examination page.
Who Issues Electrician Licenses in Indiana?
Local jurisdictions in Indiana issue electrician licenses. In Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services issues licenses for electrical contractors. The contractor licensing department may be contacted by email at contractors@indy.gov or by phone at (317) 327-1291.
In Fort Wayne, the Allen County Building Department issues licenses for electrical supervisors and journeymen, and requires electrical businesses and apprentices to register with the department. The building department may be contacted by phone at (260) 449-7131.
Does My Indiana Electrician License Work in Any Other State?
No. Since the state of Indiana does not issue electrician licenses, it does not have reciprocity agreements with other states.
However, individual cities and counties may have reciprocity agreements with other jurisdictions. If you hold a license in one of these jurisdictions, you may not need to take another exam. You will still need to apply for the license and meet licensing requirements.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for an Electrician License in Indiana?
Indiana issues electrician licenses at the local level, so it does not have reciprocity agreements with other states.
Individual cities or counties may issue licenses by reciprocity, but it depends on the local licensing regulations. Those who meet the requirements for a reciprocal license typically do not have to take another exam, but still must apply for the license.
National Electrical Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The main national electrical certifications are:
Independent Electrical Contractors certification
National Fire Protection Association certification
Professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability as a service provider and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Are There Electrician Scholarships in Indiana?
Yes, there are electrical scholarships in Indiana. Scholarships are awarded through the state, trade schools, trade organizations, and colleges.
The Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant pays tuition and fees for up to two years for eligible certificate programs — including electrical programs — at Ivy Tech Community College, Vincennes University, Indiana Institute of Technology, and other approved providers.
Other scholarship opportunities include:
How Can Someone Verify My Electrician License in Indiana?
License verification depends on the system of the local jurisdictions. In Indianapolis, the Department of Neighborhood and Business Services provides a list of current licensed electrical contractors on its licensed contractors page.
When Can an Electrician License Be Suspended in Indiana?
A suspended electrical license means the licensee is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Each city or county has their own licensing regulations. Some of the reasons electrical licenses can be suspended or revoked in Indianapolis include:
Making a materially false statement of fact to the board, on the license application, or renewal application.
Acting fraudulently during the license exam.
Failing to post and maintain surety bond and insurance requirements.
Fraudulent or deceitful business practices.
Incompetently performing electrical work.
Failing to correct a violation of building standards and procedures relative to electrical work within the required amount of time.
Failing to apply for electrical work permits.
Failing to properly supervise electrical work.
In Allen County, a license or registration may be suspended or revoked for:
Obtaining or renewing a license or registration by fraud, falsehood, misrepresentation, or deceit.
Receiving charges from the building department relating to incompetent work, code violations, unethical conduct, fraud, or deceit in the performance of the trade.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about Indiana electrical license regulations, refer to the Indianapolis-Marion County Code of Ordinances, Allen County Building Department Rules and Regulations, or the code and regulations of the local jurisdiction.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Electrician Work in Indiana?
In Indiana, cities and counties set their own regulations and penalties for unlicensed work. In Indianapolis, those working without a license are subject to a civil penalty of $250 for the first offense. Subsequent violations within a 12-month period include a fine of at least $1,000.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For specific information about Indiana electrical license regulations, refer to the Indianapolis-Marion County Code of Ordinances, Allen County Building Department Rules and Regulations, or the code and regulations of the local jurisdiction.
Continuing Education
Each city or county sets their own licensing requirements, so the local jurisdiction determines whether continuing education is required before license renewal.
Indianapolis does not require continuing education before contractor license renewal. Electrical contractor licenses expire on Dec. 31 of odd-numbered years. The contractor business license renewal fee is $247. The renewal fee for the license holders who qualify the contracting business is $247. These licenses also are renewed every two years. Contractors renew licenses by submitting a renewal application.
In Fort Wayne/Allen County, licenses expire annually. Licensees renew online through the county’s online portal. The building department provides license renewal information, including an updated license expiration schedule, in a renewal letter.
Renewal fees are as follows:
Electrical apprentice: $10
Electrical journeyman: $15
Electrical supervisor: $25
Electrical contractor: $90
Resources
You can stay up to date on all electrical industry news in several ways:
Check top electrician blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your electrical business.
Listen to top electrician podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive electrician business software solution built specifically to help service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and achieve growth. Our award-winning, cloud-based platform is trusted by more than 100,000 contractors across the country.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business? Contact our team to schedule a demo today.
