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If you want to work as a licensed electrician in Ohio, the right schooling is the first step. You'll need solid technical training and a school that prepares you for both hands-on work and the state licensing process. Here's what you should know and where to start looking.
How to Become a Licensed Electrician in Ohio
In Ohio, most electricians start as apprentices. You work under supervision while earning classroom hours. After enough experience and training, you can test for licensing through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB).
Basic steps for Ohio electrician licensing:
- Meet age and education requirements - You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Complete an apprenticeship or technical training program - Many choose a trade school program first, then enter an apprenticeship.
- Gain work experience - Typically 5 years under a licensed contractor for an electrical contractor license.
- Pass the state exam - The test covers National Electrical Code (NEC), electrical theory, and state safety laws.
- Maintain continuing education - You must take approved courses to keep your license active.
Note: Ohio does not license electricians at the journeyman level statewide. Local cities may have their own journeyman testing and registration.
Choosing the Right Electrician School
When looking for a trade school or training program, pay attention to:
- Accreditation - Accredited programs meet industry standards and may qualify you for apprenticeships faster.
- Hands-on training - Labs, wiring projects, and real-world practice are essential.
- Connections to apprenticeship programs - Many schools partner with local unions or contractors.
- Flexible scheduling - Night or weekend classes can help if you're working.
Best Electrician Schools in Ohio
The following schools have strong reputations for electrician training. Always confirm up-to-date details directly with each school.
1. Columbus State Community College - Construction Trades
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Program: Electrical Trades Certificate and Associate Degrees
- Length: Certificate 1 year, Associate 2 years
- Highlights: Strong partnerships with local employers, NEC-focused curriculum.
- Location: Dayton, OH
- Program: Electrical Maintenance Training, Apprenticeship Prep
- Length: 1-2 years depending on track
- Highlights: Offers both credit and non-credit electrician skills training.
- Location: Cleveland, OH
- Program: Construction Engineering Technology - Electrical Concentration
- Length: 1-2 years
- Highlights: Prepares students for construction and maintenance electrical work.
4. Ohio Technical College - Electrical Essentials
- Location: Cleveland, OH
- Program: Electrical Systems for Facilities Maintenance
- Length: Varies; short-term and diploma options
- Highlights: Focuses on electrical systems in residential and commercial settings.
5. IEC Central Ohio - Electrical Apprenticeship School
- Location: Columbus, OH
- Program: 4-Year Electrical Apprenticeship
- Length: 8,000 hours on-the-job + classroom training
- Highlights: Industry-recognized certification, employer connections.
Learn more at the IEC website.
Ohio Electrician School Comparison
| School Name | Location | Program Type | Typical Length |
| Columbus State Community College | Columbus | Certificate / Associate Degree | 1-2 years |
| Sinclair Community College | Dayton | Certificate / Associate Degree | 1-2 years |
| Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) | Cleveland | Associate Degree | 1-2 years |
| Ohio Technical College | Cleveland | Diploma / Certificate | Months - 1 year |
| IEC Central Ohio | Columbus | Apprenticeship + Classroom | 4 years |
Ohio Electrical Apprenticeship Pathways
Many electricians skip a traditional trade school degree and go straight into an apprenticeship. You can find programs through:
- Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Ohio Chapters
- International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) locals
- Contractor associations
These programs combine paid work with classroom training. They meet the requirements for license testing after completion.
What the State Exam Covers
Expect your Ohio licensing exam to test:
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Electrical theory
- State business and law
- Practical wiring knowledge
Ohio OCILB Rule: To take the exam for an electrical contractor license, you must have at least 5 years of experience as an electrician, with proof of work in the trade during the past 7 years.
You'll apply with the OCILB and schedule your test with the state's approved exam provider.
Safety and Compliance Training
Electricians in Ohio must follow OSHA safety regulations. Good schools include:
- Lockout/tagout training
- PPE selection and use
- Ladder and fall protection
- Arc flash awareness
A program that skips safety training should be avoided.
Next Steps
Here's what to do if you're ready to start:
- Choose whether to start with trade school or direct apprenticeship.
- Contact at least three programs to compare tuition, schedule, and admissions.
- Ask if they provide help with placement into apprenticeships.
- Make sure any school is state recognized or accredited for financial aid.
Selecting the right Ohio electrician school will set the foundation for your career. The sooner you start, the sooner you can build the hours you need to test for your license.
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