Journeyman Electrician License in North Dakota
To become a Journeyman Electrician in North Dakota, you must complete 8000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 classroom hours, pass a licensure exam, and apply for certification. This process typically spans 4 years and costs range from $3000 to $5000, covering training, exam fees, and licensing costs.
Photo by Javad Esmaeili on Unsplash
The journey toward becoming a Journeyman Electrician in North Dakota presents a stable and lucrative career pathway, underscored by a median salary of $76,120 per year, which is compelling given the cost of living in the state. This role is part of a national workforce of 818,700 electricians, with an expected growth rate of 9.5% by 2034, indicating a healthy demand for skilled electricians in the coming years. North Dakota's growth and development in various sectors, including energy and construction, ensure continued opportunities for electricians, making this profession a promising option for those interested in a skilled trade.
North Dakota offers a unique setting for electricians due to specific state regulations and a growing energy sector that drives local demand for skilled tradespeople. The state's regulatory environment requires electricians to undergo rigorous training and licensing, which upholds high standards of safety and professionalism in electrical work. Major employers in North Dakota often include energy companies and construction firms, which frequently seek qualified electricians for both project and maintenance work. Additionally, the state's weather conditions and rural expanses pose unique challenges and opportunities in electrical installation and maintenance, factors that can influence job availability and requirements.
This guide will provide detailed information on how to obtain a Journeyman Electrician License in North Dakota, outlining the necessary steps from educational requirements to the licensing process. Readers will gain insights into salary expectations adjusted for North Dakota's economy and understand the local job market's dynamics. This information will equip prospective electricians with knowledge about the path to certification and what to anticipate in terms of career opportunities and potential earnings in this field. By detailing the specifics of the licensing process, including exams and required experiences, this guide aims to prepare individuals for a successful career as a Journeyman Electrician in North Dakota.
Licensing Authority
ND State Electrical Board
In North Dakota, a Journeyman Electrician License requires completing specific education, passing a state exam, and acquiring relevant work experience. Continuing education is mandatory for license renewal.
Official Resources
North Dakota Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 8000 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 576 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 0 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Specific type of conviction prohibited
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Journeyman Electrician Exam
- Components
- Written
- Fee
- 100
How to Become a Journeyman Electrician License in North Dakota
tuition $2000-$4000, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $300-$500
Fastest Path
4 years
Typical Timeline
4-5 years
Estimated Cost
$3000–$5000
Verify Eligibility for Training
Before starting your journey to become a Journeyman Electrician in North Dakota, ensure you meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be legally allowed to work in the U.S. Visit the North Dakota State Electrical Board's website to review detailed requirements and download any necessary forms. Processing initial eligibility checks can take up to 1 week.
Tip
Keep digital copies of all your documents as you will need them multiple times throughout the certification process.
Complete Background Check
A background check is mandatory for electrician licensure in North Dakota. Obtain your background check through the North Dakota Attorney General's website. You'll need to submit fingerprints, which can be done at most police stations or private fingerprinting services. The process usually takes 2-3 weeks. A criminal record may not necessarily disqualify you, but felonies related to theft or violence usually do.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays.
Enroll in an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved electrician training program. You can find a list of approved programs on the North Dakota State Electrical Board's website. These programs provide the necessary 8000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 classroom hours. Attending a non-approved program means you won't be eligible to take the licensure exam, wasting time and money. Enrollment processes vary by school, so contact the program directly for specifics.
Tip
Choose a program that fits your schedule and budget. Consider location and potential job placement services.
Complete Training Program
Dedicate yourself to completing both the required 8000 hours of practical training and 576 hours of classroom instruction as stipulated by your program. This phase is critical and usually spans approximately 4 years, depending on whether you are attending full-time or part-time. Maintain good records and ensure your program submits your hours to the North Dakota State Electrical Board upon completion.
Tip
Keep a personal log of your hours in case of discrepancies with your program's records.
Prepare for the Journeyman Electrician Exam
After completing your training, prepare for the North Dakota Journeyman Electrician Exam. The exam covers electrical theory, code standards, and practical applications. It includes 80 multiple-choice questions with a time limit of 4 hours. A score of 70% is required to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available through the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other educational resources.
Tip
Regularly take practice exams to gauge your readiness and identify areas needing improvement.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
Register for the Journeyman Electrician Exam through PSI, the testing service provider. Visit their website to create an account, register for the exam, and select a testing date and location. The fee for the exam is $100. It's advisable to schedule the exam at least one month in advance to ensure availability and give yourself ample time to prepare.
Tip
Choosing a testing date further in the future may provide more options for scheduling and additional study time.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early with two forms of ID. The exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 4 hours. If you fail, you can reschedule for a $100 fee. Passing the exam is the final step before applying for licensure.
Tip
Ensure you have all required materials and arrive early to avoid any last-minute issues.
Apply for Journeyman Electrician License
After passing the exam, apply for your Journeyman Electrician License through the North Dakota State Electrical Board. Complete the application form available on their website, attach proof of your exam passing score, and pay the $50 application fee. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your license will be issued and you can begin working legally as a Journeyman Electrician in North Dakota.
Tip
Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid delays in processing.
Verify License and Start Working
Once your license is issued, verify its status on the North Dakota State Electrical Board's website. This confirmation is crucial for employers to validate your credentials. Begin your job search by visiting job boards, local union websites, or electrical contracting companies. Networking with other professionals in the industry can also lead to job opportunities.
Tip
Regularly check the job boards and maintain active communication with your network in the industry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the North Dakota State Electrical Board approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
North Dakota Journeyman Electrician License Exam administered by North Dakota State Electrical Board
Written Test
Questions: 100
Time Limit: 240 minutes
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 70%
- • Electrical Theory: 20%
- • National Electrical Code: 50%
- • Electrical Calculations: 20%
- • Safety and First Aid: 10%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
There is no skills test component for the Journeyman Electrician License Exam in North Dakota.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ Admission ticket
- ✓ Non-programmable calculator
- ✓ Pencils
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Smartphones
- ✗ Smart watches
- ✗ Reference books
- ✗ Notebooks
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 4 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are provided via mail within 4 weeks after the exam date.
If You Don't Pass
If you fail, you can retake the exam after 30 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test fee. North Dakota allows unlimited attempts.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Familiarize yourself with the National Electrical Code as it forms a significant part of the exam.
- 2. Practice time management by allocating approximately 2.4 minutes per question in practice sessions.
- 3. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. During the exam, tackle questions you are sure about first, then return to more challenging questions.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
From previous educational institutions or GED testing service · Varies · Varies
Proof of completion of high school or equivalent is required to enroll in an apprenticeship program.
Application for Apprenticeship Program
North Dakota State Electrical Board website · No cost · Immediate
Must be completed to begin an apprenticeship.
Proof of Age
State or federal identification (e.g., driver's license, passport) · Varies · Varies
Must be at least 18 years old to apply.
TB Test Results
Local clinics or healthcare providers · Approximately $20-$50
Some apprenticeship programs require tuberculosis testing.
2During Training
Monthly Work Reports
Provided by the apprenticeship program · No cost · Monthly submission
Reports must be submitted to track hours and progress.
CPR Certification
Certification courses offered by the American Red Cross or American Heart Association · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies
Certification may be required by some employers or programs.
3For the Exam
Application for Journeyman Electrician Examination
North Dakota State Electrical Board website · Examination fee of approximately $50-$100
Must be submitted prior to scheduling the exam.
Proof of Apprenticeship Completion
Issued by the apprenticeship program · No cost
Required to verify completion of necessary training hours.
Photo ID
State or federal identification · No additional cost if already obtained
Needed for identity verification on the day of the exam.
4For Certification
Journeyman Electrician License Application
North Dakota State Electrical Board website · License fee of approximately $150-$300
Submit after passing the examination to receive the license.
Exam Pass Certificate
Issued by the examination body · No cost
Proof of passing the examination, required for the license application.
Payment for License Fee
Payment made to the North Dakota State Electrical Board · Approximately $150-$300
Necessary to process the license application.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Immediately after earning your Journeyman Electrician License in North Dakota, verify your name on the state's professional licensing board's online registry. Obtain your physical certificate from the board, which is essential for job applications.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • North Dakota Job Service, Indeed, LinkedIn, and Electrician-specific job boards such as ElectricianJobs.com
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Local construction companies, utility companies, and government agencies. Expect a structured environment with opportunities for overtime at construction companies, stable schedules at utility companies, and benefits like pensions at government jobs.
Resume Tip: Highlight any hands-on experience from your apprenticeship, specific skills like wiring and compliance with electrical codes, and soft skills such as problem-solving and communication.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss your apprenticeship experience, how you handle troubleshooting electrical issues, safety practices, and your process for staying updated with electrical codes.
Expected First-Year Salary
In North Dakota, a new Journeyman Electrician can expect a salary range from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on the employer and overtime opportunities.
Career Advancement Path
Master Electrician License
Accumulate additional on-the-job hours as required by the state and pass the Master Electrician examination.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to complex electrical systems, managing time efficiently across multiple projects, and maintaining safety standards under pressure. Building a reliable professional network helps in navigating these challenges.
Journeyman Electrician License Salary in North Dakota
In North Dakota, Journeyman Electrician salaries exceed the national median, offering a competitive rate within the industry. The state's median salary is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the demand and compensation structure specific to the region.
Entry Level
$50,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$76,120
$36.6/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$95,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$61,590 national · ++23.6% in North Dakota
Salary by Metro Area
Highest concentration of electricians
Competitive rates with a growing market
Salary by Employer Type
North Dakota's cost of living is relatively low compared to national averages, making the higher salaries for electricians especially advantageous.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Some employers may offer continuing education and professional development opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Expected to rise with advancements in technology and increasing construction projects.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Highlight specialized skills or certifications
- •Discuss previous successful projects or experience
Job Market in North Dakota
In North Dakota, the job market for Journeyman Electricians is influenced by the state's growing energy sector and infrastructure projects. Although the national growth rate for electricians is projected at 9.5% from 2024 to 2034, North Dakota may experience a slightly higher growth due to these local economic activities. The state's focus on energy, particularly in oil and renewable energy sectors, drives demand for skilled electricians.
Top Hiring Areas
Capital city with ongoing commercial and residential projects
Center of oil production with consistent need for industrial electricians
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Spring and early summer, aligning with the start of major construction projects
Opportunities
- Specialization in renewable energy installations
- Continued professional development in smart grid technology
Challenges
- Shortage of skilled labor in rural areas
- Cyclical nature of oil industry affecting job stability
Training Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota offers several pathways for individuals to receive training and obtain a Journeyman Electrician License. These include programs at community colleges, vocational schools, and through employer-sponsored training.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $4,000 - $10,000 | Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 1-2 years | $5,000 - $15,000 | In-person |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies, typically 4 years | Free | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Wahpeton, North Dakota
Offers a comprehensive Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology
Bismarck, North Dakota
Blends classroom learning with practical laboratory experience
Online & Hybrid Options
Some community colleges offer hybrid programs, combining online theory courses with in-person practical training.
How to Choose a Program
- •Check for state approval and accreditation to ensure quality and eligibility for licensing exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Journeyman Electrician License program info for North Dakota
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
every 2 years
Renewal Fee
50
CE Hours
8 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: National Electrical Code updates, Safety practices
Out-of-State Reciprocity
North Dakota recognizes Journeyman Electrician licenses from states with similar or higher standards. Applicants must verify their license status and may need to meet additional requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Verification of license status
- Compliance with North Dakota standards
State Agreements
States with similar or higher licensing standards
Additional Exams
None specified
Application Process
Submit verification of current licensure and application
Fees
50
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
Review the latest National Electrical Code updates before the exam.
Recommended Resources
Mike Holt's Journeyman Exam Preparation Book
Provides comprehensive practice questions and detailed explanations tailored for North Dakota electrical code.
DEWALT Electrical Licensing Exam Guide
Covers a wide range of topics and includes practice questions that reflect the format of the North Dakota journeyman exam.
NEC Practice Questions Book by Ray Holder
This guide breaks down National Electrical Code (NEC) complexities with practice questions geared towards journeyman exams.
Electrical Exam Preparation by Mike Holt
Detailed explanations of NEC requirements with focus on areas relevant to the journeyman licensing exam.
NEC Code Book
Essential for understanding regulations and standards that will be tested on the North Dakota journeyman electrical exam.
Insulated Screwdriver Set
Critical for safe practice during training; ensures protection against electric shocks.
As an Amazon Associate, CredentialGuide earns from qualifying purchases.
Stay Updated
Get notified when Journeyman Electrician License requirements change in your state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Find Journeyman Electrician License Programs in North Dakota
Get free program information sent to your inbox
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities in North Dakota.
Are You a Training Provider?
List your programs on CredentialGuide and connect with students actively researching training options in your area.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- North Dakota Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12