Best Electrician Schools in Delaware

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become an electrician in Delaware, your first step is to get the right training. The state requires you to complete a combination of classroom education and hands-on experience before you can get licensed. Choosing the right school can make the process easier and prepare you for long-term career success.

In this guide, you'll learn which electrician schools in Delaware are worth considering, what each offers, and how to move forward toward your license.


Delaware Electrician License Basics

Before picking a school, it's smart to know the licensing process. Electricians in Delaware are licensed by the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation - Board of Electrical Examiners.

State Rule: To qualify for a journeyperson electrician license in Delaware, you must complete a recognized apprenticeship program or proof of equivalent work experience, plus pass the state exam. 1

Here's the general path to becoming a licensed electrician in Delaware:

  1. Enroll in an approved training or apprenticeship program.
  2. Log the required on-the-job training hours. This is typically 8,000 hours for journeyperson status.
  3. Complete classroom instruction (about 144 hours per year during apprenticeship).
  4. Apply for your license with the Delaware Board of Electrical Examiners.
  5. Pass the state electrician exam.

Best Electrician Schools in Delaware

Several trade schools and apprenticeship providers in Delaware offer programs that meet state requirements. Below are some of the top options for aspiring electricians.

1. Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC)

Location: Multiple campuses (Terry, Stanton, and others)
Program Type: Electrical and HVAC programs, apprenticeship partnership
Highlights:

  • Offers electrical trade courses through its Workforce Development and Community Education division.
  • Connects students with apprenticeship opportunities approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
  • Flexible course schedules for working students.

Website: https://www.dtcc.edu


2. Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Chesapeake Chapter - Delaware

Location: Newark, DE and training centers in nearby states
Program Type: IEC Apprenticeship Program
Highlights:

  • Four-year apprenticeship covering both jobsite training and classroom instruction.
  • Curriculum follows industry-recognized standards from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER).
  • Graduates qualify to sit for the journeyperson exam.

Website: https://www.iecchesapeake.com


3. Delaware Area Vocational-Technical School District - Adult Education

Location: District-wide, with Newark and New Castle centers
Program Type: Adult Trades Training (Electrician)
Highlights:

  • Evening courses for adults entering the electrical trade.
  • Training designed to prepare students for entry-level apprentice positions.
  • Often works with local contractors to place graduates.

Website: https://www.nccvtadulteducation.com


4. Polytech Adult Education - Electrical Trades

Location: Woodside, DE
Program Type: Electrical Trades Certificate Program
Highlights:

  • Covers residential, commercial, and industrial wiring basics.
  • Prepares you for an entry-level position and possible transition into a registered apprenticeship.
  • Offers both full-time and part-time schedules.

Website: https://www.polytechworks.com


Program Comparison Table

School / Program Pathway Type Length Offers Apprenticeship?
Delaware Technical Community College Coursework + Apprenticeship partnership Varies Yes
IEC Chesapeake - Delaware Formal Apprenticeship 4 years Yes
Delaware Vo-Tech Adult Ed Classroom Training Varies Placement assistance
Polytech Adult Education Classroom Certificate Varies Possible placement

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a School

When you choose a training program, think about:

  • State approval: The program should meet Delaware's licensing requirements.
  • Hands-on training: Electrical work is best learned on the job.
  • Apprenticeship connections: Schools linked to registered apprenticeships can shorten your path to licensure.
  • Location and schedule: Evening or weekend classes can help if you're working.
  • Cost and financial aid: Some apprenticeships let you earn while you learn.

Apprenticeship vs. Classroom-Only Training

In Delaware, you can start as an apprentice or take classroom training first and then seek an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship Benefits:

  • Earn while you learn.
  • Immediate on-the-job experience.
  • Direct path to licensing requirements.

Classroom-Only Program Benefits:

  • Flexible entry points for career changers.
  • Build basic skills before jobsite work.
  • May make it easier to get hired as an apprentice.

Delaware Licensing Requirements Summary

Here's a quick reference for the state's journeyperson electrician requirements:

Requirement Details
Minimum Age 20 years old
Education/Experience 8,000 hours OJT + 576 hours classroom, OR proof of equivalent
Exam State electrical exam
License Renewal Every 2 years, with continuing education

Note: Delaware also offers other license types such as Master, Limited, and Apprentice Electrician. Requirements differ for each.


Next Steps

If you're serious about becoming an electrician in Delaware:

  1. Decide if you want to start in a classroom or directly in an apprenticeship.
  2. Contact one or more of the schools above for program details and enrollment dates.
  3. Apply for the program that fits your schedule and career goals.
  4. Keep records of your training hours and coursework for your license application.

Starting with a good training program will set you up for steady work in a trade that's always in demand. Every hour you spend learning now will make you more valuable on the jobsite and help you pass the state licensing exam on your first try.



  1. Delaware Division of Professional Regulation - Board of Electrical Examiners: https://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/electrical/


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