How to Become an Electrician in Massachusetts (2026)

Written by a licensed IBEW journeyman electrician  ·  Updated May 2026 ·  Reviewed for NEC accuracy

Becoming a licensed electrician in Massachusetts follows the same general path as the rest of the country — apprenticeship, journeyman exam, optionally master license — with state-specific licensing requirements layered on top.

The Path in Massachusetts

  1. High school diploma or GED + 1 year algebra
  2. Apply to an IBEW local in Massachusetts or a non-union apprenticeship
  3. Take the NJATC aptitude test (IBEW route)
  4. Complete the interview, get on the eligibility list
  5. Complete the 4-5 year apprenticeship
  6. Pass the Massachusetts journeyman electrician exam

Massachusetts Licensing

Massachusetts requires licensure through the Division of Professional Licensure. Licenses include Apprentice, Journeyman (Class B), and Master (Class A).

Reciprocity

Massachusetts has reciprocity with certain New England states.

IBEW Locals in Massachusetts

Exam Costs & Schedules

  • Journeyman exam fees vary — check with your state board
  • Most states use PSI or Prometric as exam providers
  • Exams typically include 80-100 questions over 3-4 hours
  • NEC code section is the most heavily weighted

Ready to test yourself?

20 questions · No signup required · Instant results

Take the Free Practice Test

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become an electrician in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, the typical path is a 4-5 year IBEW apprenticeship followed by a journeyman licensing exam. Total time from first application to licensed journeyman is usually 5-8 years.

How much do electricians make in Massachusetts?

Electrician pay in Massachusetts varies by region and union status. IBEW journeyman scale tends to be higher than non-union shop rates. See our electrician salary by state page for current ranges.

Do I need a license to be an electrician in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts requires licensure through the Division of Professional Licensure. Licenses include Apprentice, Journeyman (Class B), and Master (Class A).

Does Massachusetts accept out-of-state electrician licenses?

Massachusetts has reciprocity with certain New England states.

Related Resources

Michael B. — IBEW Local 134 Journeyman Electrician

Michael B.

IBEW Local 134 Journeyman Electrician · Licensed Electrical Contractor

Michael is a licensed electrical contractor and IBEW Local 134 journeyman with years of field experience. He built Sparky AI after ChatGPT gave him wrong NEC code information on a job — costing him $800 in callbacks. Every answer in Sparky AI is verified against the actual NEC.