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If you want to work as an electrician in Connecticut, your first step is getting the right training. The state requires a mix of classroom education and hands-on apprenticeship hours before you can earn your journeyperson license.
Below, you'll find the top electrician trade school programs in Connecticut plus the steps you need to take to become licensed.
How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Connecticut
Connecticut licenses electricians through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). You can't legally work without a valid license.
Here's the basic process:
- Choose a training path - Enroll in a technical high school, community college, or trade school program.
- Complete the required apprenticeship - Usually 8,000 hours of supervised work for a journeyperson license.
- Log classroom hours - 144 hours per year of related instruction is common.
- Apply to take the state exam through the DCP.
- Pass the journeyperson exam and maintain your license with continuing education.
State Rule: Connecticut Electricians must complete a state-approved apprenticeship before taking the journeyperson exam. Without an apprenticeship card issued by the DCP, your work hours will not count toward licensing requirements.
Best Electrician Schools in Connecticut
The schools and programs below are known for solid instruction and strong links to the electrical industry. Always confirm details directly with the school, since class schedules, tuition, and admission requirements can change.
1. Porter and Chester Institute
- Locations: Branford, Enfield, Rocky Hill, Stratford, Waterbury
- Program: Electrical Technology
- Length: About 12 months (full-time)
- Highlights: Combines classroom theory with lab work that simulates jobsite conditions. Offers career services for graduates.
2. Eli Whitney Technical High School (Adult Education Division)
- Location: Hamden
- Program: Adult Education for Electrical Apprentices
- Length: Varies (evening classes to fit work schedules)
- Highlights: State-approved related instruction for registered apprentices. Designed for working adults already in the trade.
3. Lincoln Technical Institute
- Locations: East Windsor, New Britain, Shelton
- Program: Electrical and Renewable Energy Technology
- Length: 12-15 months
- Highlights: Focus on residential, commercial, and some renewable energy systems. Hands-on labs with up-to-date tools.
4. Industrial Management & Training Institute (IMTI)
- Location: Waterbury
- Program: Electrical, HVAC, and specialized trade instruction
- Length: Varies by program
- Highlights: Offers electrical courses that meet state apprenticeship requirements, plus code update courses for licensed electricians.
5. Norwich Technical High School (Adult Education Division)
- Location: Norwich
- Program: Evening electrical classes for apprentices
- Length: Typically follows the school year
- Highlights: Affordable option for those registered in a state apprenticeship program.
Training Program Comparison
| School | Program Name | Estimated Length | Evening/Part-time Option |
| Porter and Chester Institute | Electrical Technology | 12 months | No |
| Eli Whitney Tech (Adult Ed) | Electrical Apprenticeship Related Instruction | Varies | Yes |
| Lincoln Tech | Electrical & Renewable Energy | 12-15 months | No |
| IMTI | Electrical Training | Varies | Yes |
| Norwich Tech (Adult Ed) | Electrical Apprenticeship Related Instruction | School year | Yes |
Tips for Choosing a Connecticut Electrician School
When comparing schools, look at more than just tuition. Consider:
- State approval - The program must meet DCP requirements for apprenticeship classroom hours.
- Location and schedule - Evening programs are best for those already working.
- Hands-on lab work - Real-world practice is essential before entering the field.
- Connections with employers - A school that helps place you in an apprenticeship can save time.
Connecticut Apprenticeship Requirements
To work as an electrical apprentice in Connecticut, you must first register with the Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship Training.
Key requirements:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Work under a licensed journeyperson or contractor
- Complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training for most electrical licenses
- Complete related classroom instruction yearly
You will need an Apprentice Card issued by the state before your training hours can be counted toward licensing.
For full details, visit the Connecticut Department of Labor Apprenticeship Information.
Exam and Licensing
After completing your apprenticeship and classroom hours:
- Submit your application to the DCP's Occupational & Professional Licensing Division.
- Once approved, schedule your journeyperson exam with the testing vendor.
- The exam covers the National Electrical Code (NEC), Connecticut electrical laws, and electrical theory.
- Upon passing, you'll receive your license and can work under your own credentials.
Continuing Education
In Connecticut, electricians must complete state-approved continuing education before each license renewal. This usually includes:
- Updates to the NEC
- State-specific safety and regulatory changes
- Trade-related developments
Many of the same schools that provide initial training also offer continuing education.
Next Steps
If you're ready to begin your career as an electrician in Connecticut:
- Review the schools above and contact them for program details.
- Register as an apprentice with the DCP and Department of Labor.
- Keep accurate records of your work and classroom hours.
- When you meet requirements, apply for your journeyperson license.
Starting with a reputable, state-approved program will set you up for success. Electricians are in demand, and completing the right training in Connecticut is the fastest way to build a stable, skilled career.
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