Last updated on February 26th, 2024.
Searching for a path to become an electrician in Colorado? You’re in the perfect spot.
So if you want to:
- Find out where to get an electrical apprenticeship in Colorado
- Understand Colorado’s electrical licensing requirements
- Learn how to get started as an electrical apprentice in Colorado
Then you’ll love the detailed information in this guide.
Let’s dive right in.
How To Become An Electrician In Colorado
To become an electrician in Colorado you first need to decide which type of electrician you want to be. Colorado has two types of electrical licenses:
- Residential Wireman
- Journeyman Electrician
Getting Started
Your first step? Register as an electrician apprentice with the Department of Regulatory Agencies.
1. Register online for an account.
2. Create an Apprentice Registration Number
Once you finish your application, log into your account, and click the “Current Information” link on the left-hand side of the screen. Your apprentice number will display at the bottom of the screen and will say “Pending Supervision.” Give this number to your contractor (if you have already applied for a job). The contractor will then add you to their company as an apprentice.
As a registered apprentice, next up is finding an IBEW or IEC apprenticeship program to kick off your training.
IBEW Electrical Apprenticeships in Colorado
Denver Area Electrical JATC
5610 N. Logan Street, Denver, CO 80216
Phone 303-295-1903
Fax 303-296-8819
Programs: Inside Wireman | Residential | VDV
More Info
- $30 to apply – This is a non-refundable fee.
- Current driver’s license and one additional form of government-issued ID (Birth Certificate, Passport, Military ID, Social Security Card, etc.)
- High School Diploma or G.E.D. Official transcripts verifying one full credit of an algebra course. (GED scores do NOT meet this criterion) You may substitute NJATC Online Tech Math class Copy of DD214 (If you were in the military)
- Those accepted will be required to clear a background check. For the background check, you will be required to provide the addresses you resided at for all states that you have lived in for the past seven years.
- Those accepted will be required to submit results of physical examination and drug screen.
Residential | VDV Program:
- $30 to apply – This is a non-refundable fee.
- Two forms of government-issued ID (Driver’s License, Birth Certificate, Military ID, Passport, Social Security, etc.)
- High School Diploma or G.E.D.
- Copy of DD214 (If you were in the military)
- Those accepted will be required to submit results of physical examination and drug screen.
Application Process:
After you submit all of the required documentation you will be given an application to be completed on-site at our training facility. Once you complete the application you will be scheduled for the mandatory aptitude test. The test will consist of basic algebra functions and reading comprehension. You will be given sample questions to take home with you after completing the application.
Colorado Springs Electrical JATC
414 West Pikes Peak Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
Phone 719-473-1781
Fax 719-471-8488
Programs: Inside Wireman | Lineman
More Info
Your application will be evaluated to determine whether or not you meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a minimum of 18 years of age at the time of selection and indenture—some areas have a minimum application age of 17.
- Show evidence of successful completion of one full year of high school algebra with a passing grade, or one post high school algebra course with a passing grade.
- Be at least a high school graduate, or have a GED, or in lieu of a high school diploma or GED, have a two-year Associate Degree or higher.
- Provide an official transcript for high school and post high school education and training. If applicable, GED records must be submitted. The algebra and high school graduation requirements can be waived if you have been working in the electrical construction industry and meet specific work hour requirements (must be documentation).
If you meet the basic requirements, you will be scheduled to take the NJATC apprenticeship test battery. The test battery consists of two (2) tests.
There are three ways to enter into the apprenticeship: Application process described above. Organize in with your current contractor. Be part of an organizing campaign where at least 50% of the employees working for the contractor sign authorization cards.
APPLICATION PROCESS: All applications are done in person! Come down to 414 West Pikes Peak Ave to apply in person.
Applications are accepted on Thursdays between 9AM and 3PM Bring a copy of a transcript showing you’ve taken Algebra level math or higher. Bring a copy of your HS diploma or proof of GED Birth certificate or Passport, Driver’s License, Social Security Card– If prior military – DD 214.
Come on down to the school located at 414 West Pikes Peak Ave on any THURSDAY – 9AM to 3PM
Pueblo Electrical JATC
2924 Graneros Lane, Pueblo, CO 81005
Phone 719-561-8000
Fax 719-561-8899
Program: Inside Construction Electrician
More Info
To apply call Dan Kraus: (719) 561-8000 ext. 18, or 28 P.E.J.A.T.C.
- Application Date January 1st through December 31st
- Where to Apply: 2924 Graneros Pueblo,CO 81005
- Application Times: By appointment by calling (719) 561-8000 ext 18
- Geographic Area By Counties Covered Under Apprenticeship: Alamosa, Archuleta, Baca, Bent, Chaffee, Conejos, Costilla, Crowley, Custer, Fremont, Huerfano, Kiowa, Las Animas, Mineral, Otero, Prowers, Pueblo, Rio Grande, Saguache.
- Age Requirements: Provide reliable documentation for proof of age (minimum of 18 years of age)
- Education: Provide documentation of being a high school graduate, or having a GED, or having a two-year Associates Degree or higher and show evidence of successful completion of one full credit of high school algebra, or more advanced math with a passing grade, or one post high school algebra course (e.g. Adult Education, Continuing Education, Community College, etc.) or more advanced math, with a passing grade, or provide evidence of having successfully completed the NJATC Math Course.
- Aptitude: To qualify for an interview you must score “4” or higher on the electrical trade’s aptitude test developed and validated by the American Institutes for Research.
- License: Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License at the time of interview.
- Other Requirements: Applicants are required to submit: (Copies of all but transcripts)
- A. Copy of High school Diploma or GED Equivalency Certificate and all records.
- B. Copy of birth certificate or other acceptable proof of age.
- C. Official transcript of high school and post high school education and training (unopened).
- D. Veteran’s discharge records (DD-214), if applicable and you wish to receive consideration for training.
- E. Copy of Valid Colorado State Drivers License.
- F. Copy of Social Security Card. G. Must pass a drug screen test at the applicant’s expense if selected.
All applicants will be selected without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin. All of the above information has been disseminated by the Pueblo Joint Committee for Electrical Apprenticeship and Training.
Pueblo Electrical JATC is partnered with MSLCAT (Mountain States Line Constructors Joint Apprenticeship and Training Program) to offer an apprenticeship for those interested in becoming a lineman.
Program: Power Lineman
More Info
Apprentice linemen learn to build and maintain the electrical power line systems. They work in an industry that builds the entire job from start to finish. The activities of a Journeyman Lineman are diversified and non-routine.
An apprentice will learn and master many skills, and will have the satisfaction of working with a team to complete a project. The duties of the apprentice lineman often include, but are not limited to: Assembly and erection of metal towers and wood poles along with the installation of footings, hardware, conductors and other related equipment.
Performing work on conductors, underground cables, and related electrical apparatus possibly energized at voltages up to 500,000 volts.
Climbing, lifting, hoisting, and pulling, while installing or repairing equipment, often at considerable heights.
Physically demanding work on all kinds of terrain in locations inaccessible to mobilized equipment.
Work in extreme weather conditions, from freezing blizzard conditions to temperatures over 100 degrees.
The program generally takes about four years to complete, and may require extensive travel. It consists of a minimum of 7000 hours of on-the-job training and related instructional classes, generally held on Saturdays.
Apprentices are assigned to a full time job and earn wages while learning the trade. No compensation is given for related training.
Current trends and changes in the industry fueled by deregulation provide optimism for steady growth and reliable employment opportunities in the future, especially in the construction branch of the trade.
Trade: Outside Electrical Lineman
Openings: As needed
Dates: Open
Geographical Area: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah & Wyoming
Minimum Qualifications:
- Age: Minimum 18 years
- Education: High School Graduate or GED
- Valid Drivers License
- Applicants Are Required To Submit:
- Birth Certificate Official Transcript of High School courses and grades High School Diploma Official GED, if applicable Veteran’s discharge records (DD-214), Valid Driver’s License, and DMV Report, Physical Examination, if selected Drug Screen Test, if selected Applicants will be selected without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.
IEC Electrical Apprenticeships in Colorado
IEC Rocky Mountain Chapter
11429 Pearl St
Northglenn, Colorado 80233
Ph: (303) 853-4886
Fax: (303) 853-4909
Email: [email protected]
More Info
IECRM offers a 4 year electrical apprenticeship program.
IECRM has two campus locations:
- Denver NEW Campus: 11429 Pearl Street, Northglenn, CO 80233
- New Ft. Collins Campus: 912 Smithfield Dr., Ft. Collins, CO 80524
New students / First Year Apprentices begin their first year of classroom training at IECRM in August of every year, and the first year ends in May/June of the next year. There are two semesters in a school year.
If you are already employed as an apprentice, or you are a contractor interested in registering one of your apprentices for schooling, please visit this page for directions on How to Register. Apprentices, please approach your contractor with this information, since your contractor will be the one to register you for school.
Veterans visit the IECRM Veterans FAQ for more information about GI Bill benefits and apprenticeship.
If you are seeking employment as an apprentice and/or interested in schooling at IECRM:
- Visit the Four-Year Electrician’s Apprentice Program FAQ’s page. This FAQ page should answer MANY of your questions about our program, what is involved, when classes start, tuition and book costs, and more.
- Call IECRM at (303) 853-4886 to make an appointment for an interview and math test. IECRM interviews new students on the first and third Tuesday of the month at 1:00 p.m, at its main Denver Campus (11429 Pearl Street,Northglenn, CO 80233.) Please allow at least 2 hours for your appointment (you will be filling out an application, going through a brief interview process, and taking a math exam.)
- Bring the following items to your appointment: Colorado Driver’s License Social Security Card (OR a Birth Certificate OR Passport) Any schooling transcripts you may have — transcripts can be unofficial from High School, GED, or College.
- After following steps 1 and 2 above, you will be placed on our Hire List. The Hire List is used regularly by electrical contractors, to hire new apprentices and licensed electricians. IECRM does not guarantee employment from the Hire List — see Step #4.
- You should also begin seeking employment on your own. Start with our Job Postings page, but use all available resources (networking, online search, calling companies, etc.)
- Get started with school — See Important Dates for Students. Many of our students have secured apprenticeships when they begin school. HOWEVER you can still start school at IECRM even if you are not yet employed as an apprentice. When registration opens, please call Annette at (303) 853-4886 to register yourself as a “Self-Pay Student”.
Prospective students who desire to test out of first or second year classes must schedule an appointment with the Training Office prior to July 1st. A $75 fee will apply to anyone without trade related transcripts. Passing score is an 80%. There is not a placement test to move from the third year into fourth year, or to move out of the fourth year. Returning IECRM students that have been out a year or more will also have to take the Placement Test.
If you have any further questions or would like more details on any of the above, please contact Annette Gauna, IECRM Training Manager, at (303) 853-4886.
IEC Southern Colorado Chapter
More Info
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age (there is no age limit to enter). Apprentices must be physically capable of performing the various tasks that are required of a journeyman electrician.
The IEC of Southern Colorado’s apprenticeship program is approved by the U. S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training.
Military veterans may use their VA benefits while enrolled in the apprenticeship program.
Graduates of the apprentice program receive 42 hours of college credit through the Emily Griffith Opportunity School. These credits are transferable to most colleges or universities in Colorado. College credits can also be earned through the American Council on Education. Our Chapter works with the Pikes Peak Workforce Center and the Workforce Investment Act.
A first – year apprentice who has never enrolled in any apprentice program and meets the WIA requirements can receive financial assistance during their first year. The Colorado State Electrical Board requires that an apprentice perform 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and at least 288 hours of supplementary instruction, prior to submitting an application to take the state journeyman exam.
For the residential wireman, 4,000 hours of on-the-job training is required. All IEC instructors are required to hold a current, state – issued master electrician or journeyman electrician’s license.
Students attend class one night a week for 4 hours. There are 18 weeks in each semester and two semesters in each academic year for a total of 144 hours of instruction per year. This will be a combination of lecture, code study and hands-on lab work.
New incoming students are required to take the Math Diagnostic Exam. This exam is not a Pass/Fail exam, but a way to measure the apprentices ability to do the math required for the lessons. We have found that to remember the math and learn new electrical principles is usually too much for the new apprentice. This will give those apprentices a chance to brush up on their math skills before tackling new material. This exam is given by appointment and is free of charge.
Western Colorado IEC
How To Become A Residential Wireman In Colorado
A residential wireman in Colorado is someone defined as:
In order to apply for the residential journeyman electrician license, you will have to provide proof of successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience.
The license is provided by the State electrical board of Division of Professions and Occupations.
- Requirements
- Application
- Exam
- Applicants for a Colorado residential wireman’s license are required to verify four thousand hours earned in no less than two years of electrical construction wiring experience, for lights, heat, and power.
To apply for the license you must log into your DORA online account to begin the process.
You have one year to submit all required documentation and a completed application or your application will be purged from the system.
The application fee is $100.
Experience and work history must be submitted via the Affidavit of Experience form. This form is available in your DORA account.
Your apprentice license must be active prior to submitting an application.
After your application is accepted you will be sent a package that contains all necessary documents and guidelines to schedule your exam.
You must score a 70% (63 questions) in order to pass.
The exam fee is $75
There are more than one agency that administers the exam. Pearson Vue and PSI.
How To Become Journeyman Electrician In Colorado
A journeyman wireman in Colorado is defined as:
In order to apply for the journeyman electrician license, you will have to provide proof of successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience.
The license is provided by the State electrical board of Division of Professions and Occupations.
- Requirements
- Application
- Exam
- A minimum of four thousand hours earned in no less than two years of that time being commercial and/or industrial work.
- Verification of experience must state the hours and months of the time spent performing residential and commercial/industrial wiring.
To apply for the license you must log into your DORA online account to begin the process.
You have one year to submit all required documentation and a completed application or your application will be purged from the system.
The application fee is $100.
Experience and work history must be submitted via the Affidavit of Experience form. This form is available in your DORA account.
Your apprentice license must be active prior to submitting an application.
After your application is accepted you will be sent a package that contains all necessary documents and guidelines to schedule your exam.
You must score a 70% (63 questions) in order to pass the exam.
The exam fee is $75.00
Please review the Candidate Information Bulletin
Colorado State Reciprocal Licensing
Colorado has reciprocal Journeyman licensing agreements with the following states:
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota
- Utah
- Wyoming
Useful Links
- Electrician Application
- DORA
- State Electrical Board of Division of Professions and Occupations
- Important legal information can be found at statutes and regulations
- Affidavit of Experience
- Affidavit of Eligibility
- Forms
- Licensing requirements
- Candidate Handbook for Examination and Assessment
- Exam FAQ
- Continuing Competency
- Colorado reciprocal licensing
- Legislation and rules
- Exam homepage (for electricians)
- ADA for