Best Electrician Schools in Washington

If you want to work as an electrician in Washington, you'll need formal training. The state requires specific classroom hours and on-the-job experience before you can apply for a journeyman license. The fastest way to get started is by enrolling in an approved electrician school or training program.

Below, I'll walk you through some of the best electrician schools in Washington, what to look for, and how to make sure you meet the state's requirements.

How Licensing Works in Washington

Electricians in Washington are licensed by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). You must work under a licensed electrical contractor and complete a set number of hours before you can take the journeyman exam.

According to Washington L&I, you need at least 8,000 hours of supervised work experience and 96 hours of classroom instruction to qualify for a journeyman electrician exam in most categories.
Source: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

There are also specialty licenses that require fewer hours and focus on specific systems, like residential wiring or telecommunications.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Washington

1. Choose a training path: Apprenticeship, trade school, or union program.
2. Register as an electrical trainee with L&I before starting work.
3. Complete required work hours under supervision.
4. Finish classroom training-must meet L&I's approved curriculum.
5. Apply for your exam through the L&I electrical licensing division.
6. Pass the exam and maintain ongoing continuing education credits.

Why Attend an Electrician School

While you can train through direct employment, a trade school gives you structured classes, safety instruction, and hands-on practice. Many schools also help place students in apprenticeships or entry-level jobs so you can start logging hours.

Best Electrician Schools in Washington

Here are some of the top programs to consider. All of these are either L&I-approved or have strong placement records for apprenticeships.

1. Perry Technical Institute - Yakima, WA

• Program: Electrical Technology
• Length: 24 months
• Details: Offers a mix of classroom instruction and lab training. Focuses on residential, commercial, and industrial wiring.
• More info

2. Renton Technical College - Renton, WA

• Program: Electrician Apprenticeship Preparation
• Length: 3-6 months (pre-apprenticeship)
• Details: Designed to help students enter union or non-union apprenticeships. Covers code basics, safety, and tools.
• More info

3. Bates Technical College - Tacoma, WA

• Program: Electrical Construction
• Length: 2-year AAS or shorter certificate track
• Details: Prepares for residential and commercial work. Includes NEC training and lab projects.
• More info

4. Clover Park Technical College - Lakewood, WA

• Program: Electrician Low Voltage
• Length: 5 quarters
• Details: Specializes in telecommunications, fire alarms, and security systems.
• More info

5. Walla Walla Community College - Walla Walla, WA

• Program: Energy Systems Technology
• Length: 2 years
• Details: Covers electrical systems, renewable energy, and safety codes.
• More info

Comparing Program Length and Focus

Union vs. Non-Union Paths

Electrical training in Washington is often split between union (IBEW) apprenticeships and independent schools or contractors.

Union programs generally offer:

• Steady work placement during training
• Set wage progression as you advance
• Strong benefits packages

Non-union programs can offer:

• More flexibility in location and schedule
• Training for specialty licenses
• Opportunities with smaller contractors

What to Look for in a School

When comparing electrician programs, check:

• L&I Approval: Make sure the coursework meets state licensing requirements.
• Hands-On Lab Time: Practical work is critical before stepping onto a job site.
• Partnerships: Schools that work with contractors or IBEW locals often help graduates find apprenticeships.
• Instructor Experience: Instructors who are licensed and have field experience provide better real-world lessons.

Continuing Education

After licensing, Washington requires electricians to complete continuing education classes to renew their license.

Electricians must complete 8 hours of code update and 4 hours of industry-related instruction every two years in Washington.
Source: Washington State L&I Electrical Education

You can take these through trade schools, online providers, or union halls.

Final Advice

If you're serious about becoming an electrician in Washington, start by picking a school or apprenticeship program that aligns with your long-term career goals. Make sure it's L&I-approved so your hours count toward licensing. Register as an electrical trainee before you begin working.

The best next step is to contact two or three programs near you, ask about job placement rates, and visit their facilities if possible. Seeing the shop space and meeting instructors will help you know if it's the right fit.

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