Best Electrician Schools in New York

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become an electrician in New York, it starts with quality training. New York has great options for anyone ready to learn electrical work, from technical colleges to apprenticeship programs.

Electricians in New York must meet strict training and licensing requirements. The right school will prepare you for both the job itself and the licensing process.

How to Become an Electrician in New York

Electrician licensing in New York is handled locally. Each city or county may have its own rules. New York City, for example, licenses electricians through the Department of Buildings.

Here's the general path most people follow:

  1. Get formal training - through a trade school, community college, or apprenticeship.
  2. Complete required work hours - usually 4-5 years on the job under a licensed electrician.
  3. Apply for your license - through your city or county licensing authority.
  4. Pass any required exams - these test your knowledge of the National Electrical Code and local rules.

Note: New York does not have a statewide electrician license. Always check your local requirements before starting training.

Best Electrician Schools in New York

Below are some of the top options for electrician training in New York. Programs vary in length, cost, and schedule, so contact each school for exact details.

1. NYC College of Technology (CUNY)

Location: Brooklyn, NY
Program: Electrical Engineering Technology A.A.S.
Highlights:

  • Hands-on labs with commercial and residential wiring
  • Prepares students for entry-level electrical and electronics work
  • Accredited and part of the CUNY system

2. Berk Trade and Business School

Location: Long Island City, NY
Program: Electrical Installation Program
Highlights:

  • Intensive, focused training in wiring, safety, and code compliance
  • Classes offered both daytime and evening
  • Operates since 1940 with strong trade industry connections

3. Erie 1 BOCES - Workforce Development

Location: Buffalo, NY
Program: Electrical Systems Program
Highlights:

  • Covers theory plus hands-on installation projects
  • Designed for career changers and adult learners
  • Offers job placement assistance

4. Hudson Valley Community College

Location: Troy, NY
Program: Electrical Construction and Maintenance A.O.S.
Highlights:

  • Two-year degree option with strong technical training
  • Opportunities to continue into four-year engineering programs
  • Well-equipped training labs

5. Apex Technical School

Location: Long Island City, NY
Program: Electrical and Advanced Electrical Program
Highlights:

  • Includes residential, commercial, and motor control systems
  • Fast-track training programs available
  • Focuses heavily on practical job skills

Comparing Program Lengths

Here's a quick look at how long different program types usually take:

Program Type Typical Duration
Certificate/Diploma 6-12 months
Associate Degree 2 years
Apprenticeship 4-5 years

Your choice depends on whether you want to start working quickly or build a broader academic foundation.

Electrician Apprenticeships in New York

Trade schools are one path. Another is joining an apprenticeship program directly.

New York has both union and non-union options:

  • IBEW Local 3 (New York City) - Offers comprehensive electrical apprenticeships with wages while you train.
  • IEC of New York - Industry-recognized non-union apprenticeship programs.
  • City and State BOCES programs - Often connect students to apprenticeship opportunities.

Apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. This can be a good choice if you want to earn while you learn.

Licensing Rules in Key New York Cities

Licensing rules vary by jurisdiction. Here are a few examples:

New York City: Applicants for a Master Electrician License need at least seven and a half years (or 10,500 hours) of electrical work experience, with at least two years as a journeyman1.

Buffalo: Requires either a diploma from an approved program plus work experience or a solid work history without formal schooling.

Always verify requirements with your local licensing board before enrolling in a program.

Tips for Choosing the Right Electrician School

When comparing schools, focus on:

  • Accreditation - Ensures program quality
  • Instructor experience - Look for teachers with field experience
  • Facilities - Well-equipped labs make a big difference
  • Job placement support - Can help you find work quickly after graduation
  • Flexible schedules - Important if you're working while in school

Visiting the campus and speaking to current students can help you decide if the program is a good fit.

Safety and Code Knowledge

Every electrician needs to know the National Electrical Code (NEC) and OSHA safety standards.
The best programs in New York include NEC coursework and lab safety training.

OSHA Reminder: Electrical work can be dangerous. Proper lockout/tagout procedures and PPE are required on the job2.

Final Thoughts

If you're serious about becoming an electrician in New York, start by researching the schools or apprenticeship programs in your region.
Each option has its own strengths, but the goal is the same: give you the knowledge, skills, and hours you need for licensing.

Next step: Make a short list of 2-3 programs that fit your schedule and location. Contact them, ask about job placement statistics, and verify they meet your local licensing requirements. Choosing the right starting point will set you up for long-term success in the electrical trade.

  1. New York City Department of Buildings. Master Electrician License Requirements. https://www.nyc.gov/assets/buildings/pdf/master_elec.pdf ↩

  2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Electrical Safety. https://www.osha.gov/electrical-safety ↩

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