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If you want to become an electrician in Arizona, the right school and training program can make all the difference. The state requires electricians to have a strong foundation in both classroom knowledge and hands-on skills before earning a license. Picking the right program can help you meet these requirements faster and prepare you for long-term success.
Here's what you need to know about Arizona's best electrician schools, what to expect during training, and the steps to become licensed.
Steps to Become an Electrician in Arizona
Before we look at the schools, it's important to understand how licensing works here.
- Get formal training - Most electricians start with a trade school program or apprenticeship.
- Complete required hours - Arizona does not require a separate journeyman license, but contractors must meet experience requirements.
- Gain work experience - Work under a licensed contractor to reach at least four years of verifiable experience if you plan to operate independently.
- Apply for contractor licensing - For those planning to run their own electrical business, apply through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
- Pass the required exams - Includes both a trade exam and a business law exam.
- Stay compliant - Renew licenses as required and keep up with safety regulations.
Note: Arizona follows contractor licensing laws. Electricians working on their own or taking contracts must hold an appropriate contractor's license through the state.
Top Electrician Schools in Arizona
Arizona has several trade schools and training centers that prepare you for electrician work. Many programs are designed to meet both entry-level and advanced needs.
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Program: Electrical Technology Certificate and AAS Degree
- Length: Certificates can be completed in as little as one year; associate degrees typically take two years.
- Highlights: Offers hands-on lab training, NEC (National Electrical Code) instruction, and preparation for entry into apprenticeships.
2. Maricopa Skill Center (Now Phoenix College)
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Program: Electrician Construction Program
- Length: Approximately 6-12 months, self-paced.
- Highlights: Focuses on residential and commercial wiring with flexible scheduling options for working students.
- Location: Tucson, AZ
- Program: Electrical Utility Technology AAS Degree
- Length: Two years.
- Highlights: Emphasizes both electrical theory and power utility systems, with partnerships for job placements.
4. Arizona Western College - Electrical Technology
- Location: Yuma, AZ
- Program: Electrical Technology Certificate and Degree
- Length: Certificate: 1 year; Degree: 2 years.
- Highlights: Strong focus on both residential and industrial applications, plus OSHA safety certification.
5. Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) of Arizona
- Location: Phoenix, AZ
- Program: Apprenticeship Programs
- Length: Four-year apprenticeship.
- Highlights: State-approved, earn while you learn, with emphasis on safety and NEC compliance. Ideal for those seeking a direct-to-work path.
Electrician Program Comparison Table
| School / Program | Location | Length | Credential |
| GateWay Community College | Phoenix | 1-2 years | Certificate / AAS Degree |
| Maricopa Skill Center | Phoenix | 6-12 months | Certificate |
| Pima Community College | Tucson | 2 years | AAS Degree |
| Arizona Western College | Yuma | 1-2 years | Certificate / AAS Degree |
| IEC of Arizona | Phoenix | 4 years | Apprenticeship Certificate |
What to Look For in an Electrician Training Program
When choosing a program, think about your career goals.
- Accreditation - Make sure the school is accredited or recognized by the state.
- Hands-on training - Employers want graduates who can work safely with tools and equipment.
- NEC instruction - The National Electrical Code is essential in this trade.
- Job placement support - Connections with local contractors can help you find work quickly.
- Flexible schedules - If you're working while studying, night or weekend classes may be important.
Arizona Electrician Licensing Overview
Arizona does not have a traditional journeyman licensing system like some states. Instead, the Arizona Registrar of Contractors licenses electrical contractors.
From the Arizona Registrar of Contractors:
"Any person or business that contracts or offers to contract to build, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck or demolish any building, highway, road, railroad, excavation or other structure, development or improvement, must hold a valid contractor license."
To apply for an R-11 Electrical Residential or C-11 Electrical Commercial license, you must:
- Provide proof of at least four years of relevant work experience.
- Pass the trade exam and business law exam.
- Meet bonding and insurance requirements.
For those working under a licensed contractor as an employee, no individual license is required, but training and experience are still vital for safety and promotion.
Classroom vs. Apprenticeship Paths
You have two main routes into the trade:
- Trade School + Entry-Level Job
- Faster start.
- Good for learning fundamentals before field work.
- Full Apprenticeship
- Get paid while training.
- Often takes longer before achieving full contractor eligibility.
Both paths require dedication, safety mindset, and ongoing education.
Staying Safe and Compliant
Electricians face real safety risks. Proper training reduces these risks.
OSHA reminds all electrical workers:
"Never work on energized equipment unless absolutely necessary and only when proper protective measures are in place."
OSHA's Electrical Standards apply to all states, including Arizona. Schools that include OSHA safety training give students a significant advantage.
Final Advice and Next Steps
If you want to become an electrician in Arizona:
- Choose a program that matches your schedule and career goals.
- Make sure it offers both classroom learning and hands-on lab experience.
- Plan ahead for the four years of experience needed before applying for a contractor license.
- Stay current on NEC updates and safety requirements.
The schools listed above are a great place to start your search. Contact them directly to confirm program details, costs, and enrollment dates. Your training choice now will shape your electrician career for years to come.
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