Best Electrician Schools in Arkansas

Updated August 13, 2025

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources. Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.

If you want to become an electrician in Arkansas, the first step is getting the right training. Arkansas requires a license for most electrical work, and you'll need both classroom education and hands‑on experience. The best way to start is by completing an accredited electrician program that prepares you for the state's licensing process.

Below, we'll cover how to become licensed in Arkansas and list some of the top electrician schools that can help you get started.

How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Arkansas

Arkansas licensing is managed by the Arkansas Electrical Licensing Board. The process is straightforward but requires both schooling and supervised work experience.

Basic licensing steps:

  1. Meet minimum requirements

    • Be at least 18 years old.
    • Have a high school diploma or GED.
    • Be physically able to perform electrical work.

  2. Complete formal training

    • Enroll in a registered apprenticeship or accredited electrician program.
    • Get classroom hours in the National Electrical Code (NEC), safety, wiring, and systems.

  3. Gain supervised work experience

    • For a journeyman license, the state requires 8,000 hours (about 4 years) of on‑the‑job training under a licensed electrician1.

  4. Apply for the exam

    • Submit proof of training and experience to the Arkansas Electrical Licensing Board.
    • Pass the journeyman electrician exam.

  5. Continue education

    • Renew your license as required.
    • Take continuing education on code updates and safety practices.

Arkansas Licensing Rule: "The Electrical Licensing Board shall require evidence of experience, training, and passage of an examination before issuing a license." - Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing

For more detailed licensing information, see the Arkansas Electrical Licensing Board.

Top Electrician Schools in Arkansas

These schools are accredited and offer electrician training that meets state requirements. Always confirm with the school that the program qualifies for your licensing path.

School Location Program Length Notable Features
Arkansas State University - Newport Newport, AR 1 year certificate or 2 year degree Hands‑on labs, journeyman prep
University of Arkansas - Pulaski Tech North Little Rock, AR 2 year Associate of Applied Science Evening classes, NEC-focused courses
Northwest Technical Institute Springdale, AR 1 year diploma Focus on residential and commercial wiring
Black River Technical College Pocahontas, AR 1 year certificate or 2 year degree Small class sizes, apprenticeship connections
University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Fort Smith, AR 2 year Associate program Industry partnerships for internships

How to Choose the Right Program

When looking at electrician schools, focus on programs that:

  • Are accredited by state or national trade education bodies.
  • Offer job placement help or have direct links to apprenticeships.
  • Provide small class sizes for more hands‑on training time.
  • Teach the NEC and state codes in depth.
  • Include safety training that meets OSHA standards.

Ask each school:

  • Does this program qualify me for the Arkansas journeyman license exam?
  • How much of the training is hands‑on?
  • Do you help place graduates into apprenticeships?
  • What percentage of students pass the licensing exam on the first try?

Apprenticeship vs. Trade School

In Arkansas, you can meet training requirements through a registered apprenticeship, a technical college program, or a combination of both.

Trade School Path:

  • Faster classroom completion.
  • Often shorter time to licensing if you work while studying.
  • Tuition required, may be eligible for financial aid.

Apprenticeship Path:

Both paths work. Some students start at a trade school, then join an apprenticeship, getting the best of both options.

Example Timeline to a Journeyman License

Step Duration
High school diploma / GED Before training
Electrician training program 1-2 years
On-the-job apprenticeship hours 3-4 years
Journeyman licensing exam After required hours

Safety and Compliance Training

Good programs will prepare you for code compliance, safe tool use, and electrical hazard avoidance. OSHA safety courses are usually included in quality programs.

Always work under supervision until you are licensed. Electrical work without a license can result in fines and legal action in Arkansas.

Next Steps

Here's what you should do now:

  1. Review the list of electrician schools above and request information from at least two.
  2. Ask about tuition, schedules, and how they prepare you for the journeyman exam.
  3. Confirm the program is recognized by the Arkansas Electrical Licensing Board.
  4. Apply early, as many programs have limited seating.

Becoming an electrician in Arkansas is a clear process. Choose a solid training program, get your hours, and pass the exam. The right school can set you up for a steady career in the trade.

  1. Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing - Electrical Licensing Board. https://www.labor.arkansas.gov/licensing/electrical-licensing/ ↩

Explore Related Topics:

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.