Best Electrician Schools in Kentucky

If you want to become an electrician in Kentucky, the first step is getting the right training. The state won’t issue you a license without proven work experience and classroom instruction. Choosing the right school can make the process faster and help you compare options on the job.

Kentucky has several solid options-from technical colleges to apprenticeship programs-that can prepare you for the state journeyman or master electrician exam.

How Electrician licensing works in Kentucky

Before reviewing schools, it’s important to understand how licensing is structured.

In Kentucky, the licensing authority is the Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (HBC). They control who qualifies to work as an electrician and set training requirements.

Kentucky licensing rule: You must complete at least 4 years (approximately 8,000 hours) of work experience in the electrical trade to qualify for the journeyman license.

  • Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction

Here’s how the process generally works:

  1. Complete classroom training - Either through an approved trade school or a registered apprenticeship.
  2. Log on-the-job hours - Work under a licensed electrician to gain hands-on experience.
  3. Apply for the journeyman exam - Submit proof of training, work hours, and pay the application fee.
  4. Pass the state exam - This covers the National Electrical Code (NEC), Kentucky amendments, and safety practices.
  5. Work as a journeyman - After more years of experience, you may apply for a master electrician license.

Best Electrician schools in Kentucky

Kentucky’s top programs meet industry training standards and often connect students with apprenticeships or employers. These are some of the best options in the state:

#1

Jefferson Community and Technical College

Louisville, KY In-state option

Located in Louisville, KY Jefferson Community and Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Carpenter.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

Elizabethtown, KY In-state option

Located in Elizabethtown, KY Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

Gateway Community and Technical College

Florence, KY In-state option

Located in Florence, KY Gateway Community and Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Criminal Justice.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#4

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College

Bowling Green, KY In-state option

Located in Bowling Green, KY Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology. The campus serves roughly 2,952 learners.

Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $4,656
  • Out-of-state tuition: $6,192
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Comparing program lengths in Kentucky

School / ProgramCredential OptionsApprox. Length
JCTCDiploma or Associate1-2 years
ECTCDiploma or Certificate1-2 years
Gateway CTCCertificate, Diploma, Associate1-2 years
SKYCTCDiploma or Certificate1-2 years
IEC ApprenticeshipApprenticeship4 years
ABC ApprenticeshipApprenticeship4 years

Steps to choose the right Electrician school

  1. Check accreditation - Make sure the school is accredited or approved for Kentucky licensing.
  2. Ask about hands-on training - You need lab work and real-world wiring experience.
  3. Look at apprenticeship links - Some schools help you get placed with an employer.
  4. Ask about NEC instruction - The state test is based on the NEC, so this is important.
  5. Compare schedules and tuition - Balance affordability with program quality.

Tips for Success as an Electrician Trainee

  • Stay current with the NEC The code is updated every three years.
  • Log your hours carefully State inspectors may. Check your records before approving your exam.
  • Learn safety standards OSHA and Kentucky building codes are part of your daily work.
  • Network with local contractors Many jobs come from direct referrals.

Kentucky Electrician licensing contacts

For applications, rules, and current exam information:

Kentucky Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction Electrical Division https://dhbc.ky.gov Phone: (502) 573-2002


The bottom line

If you want to work as a licensed electrician in Kentucky, you need the right mix of education and hands-on hours. Technical schools give you a strong classroom foundation, while apprenticeships let you earn money and complete your hours.

Here’s what to do next:

  • Review the school options above.
  • Contact each program to. Confirm costs, schedules, and entry requirements.
  • Make sure the program will help you meet Kentucky’s licensing requirements.
  • Apply,. Start training, and log your on-the-job hours.

The sooner you start your training, the sooner you can qualify for your journeyman license and begin building a solid career in Kentucky’s electrical trade.