Best Electrician Schools in Alabama

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to work with your hands, solve problems, and build a steady career, becoming an electrician in Alabama is a solid choice. But before you can work legally, you need the right training from a licensed school or apprenticeship program.

Here's what you need to know about the best electrician schools in Alabama, the steps to getting licensed, and how to choose the right program for your goals.

Electrician Licensing in Alabama

Before you sign up for a program, you should know the state requirements.

In Alabama, anyone doing electrical work must be licensed by the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board. This includes journeyman and master electricians.

Here are the main steps to get licensed in Alabama:

  1. Get formal electrical training - This can be from a trade school, community college, or apprenticeship.
  2. Gain hands-on experience - Most licenses require documented work hours under a licensed electrician.
  3. Pass the licensing exam - You must show knowledge of the National Electrical Code and local laws.
  4. Apply for your license - This includes submitting proof of training, experience, and passing exam scores.
  5. Maintain your license - Complete continuing education as required by the Board.

You can learn more about licensing requirements directly from the Alabama Electrical Contractors Board.

Best Electrician Schools in Alabama

Here's a list of some of the most recognized electrician training programs in the state. These schools offer programs that prepare you for both residential and commercial electrical work.

School Name Location Program Type Typical Length
Bevill State Community College Several campuses Electrical Technology 2 years
Lawson State Community College Birmingham/Bessemer Electrical Technology 2 years
Wallace Community College Selma Selma Electrical Technology 2 years
Shelton State Community College Tuscaloosa Industrial Electrical Technology 2 years
Gadsden State Community College Gadsden/Anniston Electrical Technology 2 years
J.F. Drake State Community & Technical College Huntsville Electrical Technology 2 years
Apprenticeship Programs (through IEC or IBEW) Statewide Electrical Apprenticeship 4-5 years

Tip: Even if the course takes two years, you can start working as an apprentice while completing school. That way you earn wages while building experience.

School vs. Apprenticeship - Which Path is Best?

You can become an electrician in Alabama by going to trade school, starting an apprenticeship, or a mix of both.

Trade school programs

  • Structured curriculum
  • Often include classroom and lab work
  • Good option if you want a degree or diploma

Apprenticeships

  • Paid training on real job sites
  • Usually coordinated through unions or trade associations like IEC or IBEW
  • Take longer, but you'll finish with thousands of hours of experience

Many electricians choose a hybrid path-begin at a technical college and transition into a formal apprenticeship once they have basic skills.

How to Choose the Right Electrician School

When comparing Alabama electrician schools, look for:

  • Accreditation - Make sure the school is approved by the state or a recognized accrediting body.
  • Experienced instructors - Ideally instructors are licensed electricians.
  • Hands-on training access - Lab work with real tools and wiring setups is essential.
  • Job placement help - Some programs partner with local contractors.

Ask the school directly:

  1. What percentage of graduates pass the licensing exam?
  2. Do they help place students into apprenticeships or jobs?
  3. What tools and textbooks are included in tuition?

Safety and Code Knowledge Are Critical

Electricians work around live power, which can be dangerous if you're not trained correctly. Alabama requires you to know the National Electrical Code (NEC) as part of your exam.

OSHA requires electricians to follow strict safety procedures, including lockout/tagout and PPE requirements.
Source: OSHA Electrical Safety

Make sure your training program includes NEC study, OSHA rules, and local building codes.

Steps to Enroll and Start Your Training

Here's a simple checklist to get started:

  1. Research schools - Compare cost, length, and location.
  2. Visit campuses - See labs and meet instructors.
  3. Apply for financial aid - Check FAFSA and state training grants.
  4. Submit your application - Some programs fill fast, so apply early.
  5. Buy your tools - Some schools offer starter toolkits for new students.

If you want to start as an apprentice, here are two strong options:

Both offer paid, multi-year training leading to journeyman status.

Final Thoughts

If you're ready to start a career as an electrician in Alabama, choose a school or apprenticeship that gives you both classroom knowledge and real-world experience.

The sooner you begin, the sooner you can earn your license and start professional work.

Your next step is simple: review the list of schools above, visit one in person, and get your application submitted.

In this trade, the skills you build now will pay you back for decades.

Sources

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