Overview
Delaware requires a state-issued license to work independently as a electrician. Licensing is administered by Delaware Division of Professional Regulation (DPR). Requirements include supervised experience, a written exam, and payment of licensing fees.
Always verify current requirements directly with Delaware Division of Professional Regulation (DPR) before beginning your application, as rules can change.
License tiers and what each allows
| License | What you can do | Exam required |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice | Training level. Work under supervision. | Registration only |
| Journeyman | Install, repair, and maintain systems under a master electrician. | Yes. State exam (~$75 fee) |
| Master Electrician | Full independent work, supervise others, pull permits. | Yes. Advanced state exam |
Step-by-step path
Register as an apprentice
Register with Delaware Division of Professional Regulation (DPR) before starting work. This is required to legally accumulate supervised hours toward your journeyman qualification.
Accumulate 8,000 hours of supervised experience
Work under a licensed journeyman or master electrician. This takes approximately 4 years at full-time hours. Your employer verifies hours when you apply for the journeyman exam.
Pass the journeyman licensing exam
The exam covers National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements and Delaware-specific rules. Most candidates study 4-8 weeks using a state-approved prep guide.
Apply for your journeyman license
Submit your application to Delaware Division of Professional Regulation (DPR) after passing the exam. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Renew biennially
Your Delaware license renews every two years. Always renew on time to avoid a lapse in licensure.
Fee summary
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application / registration | Varies (check board) |
| Licensing exam | $75 |
| License issuance | Varies (check board) |
| License renewal (biennial) | Varies (check board) |