Best Electrician Schools in South Dakota

If you want to work as an electrician in South Dakota, the right training is your first step. Electricians need hands-on skills, technical knowledge, and a license to work legally. This guide will help you understand where to train, what to expect from electrician programs, and how to meet state licensing requirements.

How Licensing Works in South Dakota

In South Dakota, the South Dakota Electrical Commission regulates licensing for electricians. You cannot perform electrical work for the public without a license.

State Rule: All electricians must be licensed by the South Dakota Electrical Commission to legally perform electrical work in the state. Apprentices must work under the supervision of a licensed electrician.

There are several license types, including:

• Apprentice Electrician
• Journeyman Electrician
• Class B Electrician
• Electrical Contractor

Each level requires a specific amount of work experience and passing a state exam. Your training program is where you start meeting those requirements.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in South Dakota

1. Enroll in an approved electrician training program
   This gives you the classroom and lab work to build core skills.
2. Register as an apprentice with the state
   You must be a registered apprentice before you start working.
3. Complete on-the-job training hours
   Work under the supervision of a licensed electrician while you gain experience.
4. Pass the journeyman licensing exam
   This step certifies your knowledge and ability to work independently.
5. Continue to the contractor level (optional)
   More experience and an exam are required if you want to run your own business.

Best Electrician Schools in South Dakota

Here are some of the top options for electrician training in the state. These schools combine classroom learning with lab instruction and often have placement help for apprenticeships.

1. Southeast Technical College - Sioux Falls

• Program: Electrical Construction & Maintenance
• Length: 2 years (Associate of Applied Science)
• Details: Covers residential, commercial, and industrial wiring, plus code requirements and blueprint reading.
• Website: https://www.southeasttech.edu

2. Mitchell Technical College - Mitchell

• Program: Electrical Construction and Maintenance
• Length: 2 years (AAS or diploma option)
• Details: Emphasizes hands-on lab work, safety, and preparation for the journeyman exam.
• Website: https://www.mitchelltech.edu

3. Western Dakota Technical College - Rapid City

• Program: Electrical Trades
• Length: 2 years (AAS)
• Details: Includes training in residential, commercial, motor controls, and code studies. Partnerships with local contractors for apprenticeships.
• Website: https://www.wdt.edu

Program Length and Format

Some schools offer accelerated options that can be completed in under two years if you attend year-round.

What to Look for in a School

When comparing trade schools, check for:

• State Approval: Make sure the program qualifies for apprentice registration.
• Hands-On Training: Lab hours should be a major part of the curriculum.
• Code Instruction: Knowing National Electrical Code (NEC) is essential for passing the license exam.
• Apprenticeship Placement: Schools with contractor connections can help you find work quickly.
• Safety Certifications: OSHA construction safety training is a bonus.

Costs and Financial Aid

Costs vary by school and program type. Community and technical colleges often have lower tuition than private schools. Many students qualify for:

• Federal Pell Grants
• State grants or scholarships
• Apprenticeship programs that combine paid work with training

Contact the school's financial aid office for details on tuition and aid availability.

Apprenticeship in South Dakota

Many electricians enter the trade through an apprenticeship program. These last four years on average and combine paid job training with classroom instruction.

You can find apprenticeships through:

• School placement offices
• Local contractors
• Industry groups such as the Independent Electrical Contractors Association (https://www.ieci.org/)

Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn and build real-world skills.

Safety and Compliance

Electricians work with live electricity, so safety is critical. Many programs will include:

• OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour Construction Safety courses
• Lockout/tagout procedures
• PPE training
• Ladder and scaffolding safety

Following safety rules is not just for compliance-it protects you and everyone on the job site.

Summary: Your Next Step

If you want to become an electrician in South Dakota, start by enrolling in a reputable electrician school like Southeast Technical College, Mitchell Technical College, or Western Dakota Technical College. Make sure the program is state-approved and includes NEC code training and hands-on work. Once enrolled, register as an apprentice, complete your training hours, and prepare for the journeyman exam.

Here's what to do now:

1. Research the programs listed above.
2. Contact admissions to confirm start dates and costs.
3. Verify the program meets South Dakota Electrical Commission requirements.
4. Apply and plan your path toward apprenticeship.

Your career as a licensed electrician starts with proper training. Choose the right school, commit to your apprenticeship, and you'll have skills that last a lifetime.

Sources:
[^1] :South Dakota Electrical Commission - Licensing Requirements: https://dlr.sd.gov/electrical/
[^2] :O*NET Online - Electricians: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-2111.00

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