Best Electrician Schools in Hawaii

If you want to become an electrician in Hawaii, you'll need the right training. Hawaii requires electricians to complete a mix of classroom education and hands-on work before earning a license. Picking the right school will set you up for success, help you meet requirements, and prepare you for the state licensing exam.

Below, we'll cover the top electrician training programs in Hawaii, the steps to get licensed, and what to expect in the trade.

Hawaii Electrician Licensing Basics

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Professional & Vocational Licensing Division issues electrician licenses in the state.

Electricians in Hawaii are licensed in different categories:

• Journey Worker Electrician (EJ)
• Maintenance Electrician (EM)
• Supervising Electrician (ES)
• Journey Worker, Industrial (EJI)
• Supervising, Industrial (ESI)

"All applicants must meet the required number of work hours, complete education requirements, and pass a state exam." - Hawaii DCCA

The main pathway for most is to start as an apprentice, complete education and paid training hours, and then sit for the exam.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Hawaii

1. Meet Education Requirements
   Enroll in a state-approved electrician training program. These are often at community colleges or trade schools.

2. Register as an Apprentice
   You'll work under a licensed electrician while logging required hours.

3. Complete Required Work Hours
   This varies by license type. For example:

   • EJ: 5 years (10,000 hours) of commercial/industrial experience
   • EM: 4 years (8,000 hours) in maintenance
   • ES: Must already hold an EJ license plus management experience

4. Apply for the License Exam
   Submit proof of work experience and education.

5. Pass the Hawaii State Electrician Exam
   Exam covers NEC code, safety rules, and state laws.

6. Maintain and Renew Your License
   Hawaii requires periodic renewals and may require continuing education.

Best Electrician Trade Schools in Hawaii

Below are some of the top programs recognized for producing qualified apprentices and electricians.

1. Honolulu Community College - Electrical Installation & Maintenance Technology (EIMT)

• Location: Honolulu, HI
• Program Length: 2 years (Associate of Applied Science)
• Highlights:
  • Covers residential, commercial, and industrial wiring
  • Prepares students for apprenticeship and NEC code knowledge
  • Hands-on lab work with real electrical systems
• Website: honolulu.hawaii.edu

2. Hawaii Community College - Electrical Installation & Maintenance Technology

• Location: Hilo, HI
• Program Length: 2 years (Associate Degree or Certificate)
• Highlights:
  • Practical training in wiring methods, safety, and troubleshooting
  • Strong connection with local unions and contractors for apprenticeships
• Website: hawaii.hawaii.edu

3. University of Hawaii Maui College - Electrical Technology

• Location: Kahului, HI
• Program Length: 2 years (Associate of Applied Science)
• Highlights:
  • Emphasis on photovoltaic (solar) systems
  • Exposure to emerging green technologies
  • Meets education requirements for apprenticeship programs
• Website: maui.hawaii.edu

4. Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Apprenticeship Program

• Location: Pearl Harbor, HI
• Program Length: 4 years (Paid Apprenticeship)
• Highlights:
  • Combination of classroom training and paid work
  • Federal apprenticeship program with strong job placement
  • Specializes in industrial and shipboard electrical systems
• Website: navsea.navy.mil

5. Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) - Hawaii Chapter

• Location: Various / On-site & Online Hybrid
• Program Length: 4 years
• Highlights:
  • Industry-recognized apprenticeship approved by the U.S. Department of Labor
  • Learn while earning through on-the-job training
  • Flexible schedule for working apprentices
• Website: ieci.org

Electrician Training Program Comparison Table

Why School Choice Matters

Choosing the right program impacts how quickly you qualify for the license exam.
Make sure the program is recognized by the Hawaii licensing board.
Good schools also have strong links to employers, which helps you find apprenticeships faster.

Look for programs that:

• Teach to the latest NEC (National Electrical Code) standards
• Offer real lab work with tools and wiring
• Connect you to a network of contractors and unions
• Include safety and OSHA training

Safety and Code Compliance

Electricians in Hawaii must follow strict safety rules.

"Work shall comply with the latest edition of the National Electrical Code adopted by the state of Hawaii." - Hawaii DCCA

This is one reason formal training is important. A good school teaches code compliance from day one.

Next Step

If you're serious about becoming an electrician in Hawaii, start by picking a school from the list above that fits your location and career goals.
Contact admissions to confirm the program meets Hawaii's licensing requirements, then apply for an apprenticeship as soon as possible.
In this trade, every hour you log brings you closer to your license.

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