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If you want to become an electrician in West Virginia, your first step is to get proper training. The state requires either a combination of classroom hours and hands-on apprenticeship or proof of equivalent experience before you can take the journeyman or master electrician exam. Choosing the right school can set you up for success.
Below, we'll go through the best electrician school options in West Virginia, explain the licensing process, and help you map your next steps.
Electrician Licensing in West Virginia
The West Virginia State Fire Marshal's Office oversees electrician licensing in the state. You must pass a state exam to earn your license.
There are four main license types in West Virginia:
- Apprentice Electrician - Entry-level; you'll work under supervision while gaining required training hours.
- Journeyman Electrician - Allows you to work without direct supervision but not to contract electrical work independently.
- Master Electrician - Allows you to design, install, and supervise electrical work; can work as a contractor.
- Special Electrician - Limited to certain types of systems.
Note: Most people start as an apprentice and work toward journeyman status. That means you'll need both classroom training and field experience.
Typical Requirements:
| License Type | Experience | Exam Required |
| Apprentice | None; must enroll in approved training | No |
| Journeyman | 4 years (8,000 hours) documented experience OR equivalent schooling + experience | Yes |
| Master | 5 years (10,000 hours) documented experience | Yes |
For the most current rules, check the West Virginia State Fire Marshal licensing page.
How to Become an Electrician in West Virginia
Here's the general path:
- Enroll in an approved electrician trade program or start an apprenticeship.
- Register as an apprentice with the state.
- Complete classroom training (usually 500-1,000 hours).
- Accumulate the required on-the-job hours under a licensed electrician.
- Apply to take your journeyman exam.
- Upgrade to master after gaining additional experience.
Some technical schools partner directly with local apprenticeship programs, so it's worth asking about job placement help.
Best Electrician Schools in West Virginia
These schools offer accredited electrical programs or strong apprenticeship partnerships.
1. Carver Career and Technical Education Center - Charleston
- Program: Electrical Technician
- Length: About 2 years
- Features: Combines electrical theory with hands-on lab work; evening classes available.
- Website: Carver CTE Center
2. Ben Franklin Career Center - Dunbar
- Program: Electrical Technician
- Length: 2 years (secondary and adult)
- Features: NEC code training, residential and commercial wiring modules.
- Website: Ben Franklin Career Center
3. North Central West Virginia Technical Institute - Fairmont
- Program: Electrical Technology
- Length: Certificate and associate degree options
- Features: Strong industry connections; apprenticeship pathway support.
- Website: NCWVTI
4. West Virginia Northern Community College - Wheeling
- Program: Electrical Technology A.A.S.
- Length: 2 years
- Features: Commercial wiring, motor controls, programmable logic controllers.
- Website: WVNCC
5. James Rumsey Technical Institute - Martinsburg
- Program: Electrical Technology
- Length: 2 years (daytime classes)
- Features: Prepares for entry-level electrician positions or apprentice roles.
- Website: James Rumsey Technical Institute
6. Mountwest Community and Technical College - Huntington
- Program: Industrial Electricity
- Length: Associate degree
- Features: Industrial-focused training plus safety certifications.
- Website: Mountwest CTC
- Program: Electrical Engineering Technology
- Length: 2 years
- Features: Broad coverage of electrical systems; engineering fundamentals.
- Website: BridgeValley CTC
Choosing the Right School for You
When comparing programs:
- Accreditation: Look for state-approved or nationally recognized accreditation.
- Schedule Options: Full-time, part-time, or evening classes may suit different needs.
- Hands-on Hours: The more lab and practical experience, the better.
- Job Placement: Some schools connect you directly with local contractors.
- Location & Tuition: Decide if you prefer to stay close to home or commute.
Apprenticeship Opportunities
In addition to classroom learning, you can join a registered apprenticeship program. The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) offer programs in the state.
- IBEW Local 466 - Covers southern WV
- IBEW Local 141 - Wheeling area
- IBC Local 307 - Morgantown area
- IEC Appalachian Chapter - Statewide reach
These programs typically last 4-5 years and combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Safety and Compliance
Every electrician in West Virginia must follow the National Electrical Code (NEC).
OSHA Reminder: Always use proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and follow lockout/tagout procedures when working on electrical systems. Workplace safety is required by federal and state law.
You'll also need to keep up with continuing education for license renewal, generally every 3 years.
Summary and Next Steps
If you're serious about becoming an electrician in West Virginia, your best move is to:
- Pick a state-approved school or apprenticeship.
- Register as an apprentice.
- Complete the required training hours.
- Apply for and pass the journeyman exam.
- Work toward your master license for more independence.
Contact at least two schools on the list above, compare curriculum and costs, and ask about job placement partnerships. Getting the right start now will help you build a steady, rewarding career in the electrical trade.
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