Step 1: Establish Eligibility

Before applying for an electrician license in Delaware, you need to establish your eligibility. This involves acquiring the necessary experience and education.

  • Apprentice Electrician: As an entry-level position in the field, there are no specific requirements to become an apprentice electrician. This role is designed for individuals who are new to the field and are seeking hands-on experience and training. As an apprentice, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed electrician, learning the ins and outs of the job.
  • Journeyperson Electrician: To become a journeyperson electrician, you must complete an apprenticeship program or accumulate 8,000 hours of full-time experience. This equates to about four years of full-time work. During this time, you’ll gain extensive knowledge and experience in the field, preparing you for the next step in your career.
  • Master Electrician: To become a master electrician, you must have 4 years of full-time experience as a licensed journeyperson. This level of licensure represents a high degree of skill and expertise in the field. As a master electrician, you’ll have the ability to take on larger, more complex projects and may even run your own electrical contracting business.

As a newly licensed electrician, understand how Delaware electrician insurance can benefit your work.

Step 2: Apply for the License

Once you’ve established your eligibility, the next step is to apply for the license. This process is done through the DELPROS online portal. The application fees are as follows:

  • Apprentice Electrician: $79
  • Journeyperson Electrician: $99
  • Master Electrician: $197

These fees are non-refundable and are required to process your application. It’s important to note that these fees do not include the cost of the examination, which is a separate expense.

Step 3: Take the Required Exam

After your application is reviewed and approved by the Board of Electrical Examiners, you will be allowed to sit for the required exam. The exams are based on the most up-to-date National Electrical Code (NEC) adopted in Delaware. The exams are facilitated by an external testing vendor, ProV.

The examination process is designed to test your knowledge and understanding of electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, and Delaware’s rules and regulations for electrical work. The exam format includes multiple-choice questions and may also include practical components where you’ll need to demonstrate your skills.

Step 4: Submit Proof of Insurance

After passing the exam, you must submit proof of liability insurance of at least $300,000. This applies to Master and Limited Electrician licenses. This insurance is designed to protect you in case of accidents or damage caused during the course of your work. It’s a crucial requirement and failing to maintain adequate insurance can lead to penalties or the suspension of your license.

Step 5: License Issuance

Once the Board office receives your passing score and validates that you have met all requirements for licensure, your license will be issued. You will receive an email notification stating your license has been issued, including any additional details about license renewal and/or continuing education requirements.

Receiving your license is a significant achievement. It’s a testament to your skills, knowledge, and dedication to the profession. However, it’s important to remember that holding a license comes with responsibilities. You’re expected to uphold the standards of the profession, follow all relevant laws and regulations, and engage in ongoing learning to keep your skills up to date.

Renewing Your Electrician License

Electrician licenses in Delaware expire on June 30 of even years. A few months before the expiration date of your license, a renewal notice will be sent to the email address on record. This notice will explain how to access your online renewal application in DELPROS.

During renewal, you are asked to attest that you have completed the required continuing education units (CE) and met the liability insurance requirement. Journeyman and Apprentices are exempt from the Insurance requirement.

If you do not renew your license before the expiration date, your license will expire. It is illegal to practice in Delaware while your license is expired. You may file a late renewal application up to one year after the expiration date in DELPROS. You must pay a late fee in addition to the renewal fee.

Continuing Education Requirements

Continuing education (CE) is a requirement for license renewal. The amount of CE that you are required to complete depends on your license type and when your license was issued during the full licensure period.

  • Master, Master Special, Limited or Limited Special Electrician: 10 hours of approved CE.
  • Journeypersons, Residential or Apprentice Electrician: 5 hours of approved CE.

Continuing education is an important aspect of maintaining your license. It ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field, including new technologies, techniques, and safety practices. It also provides an opportunity to expand your skills and knowledge, which can enhance your career prospects.

Electrician License Reciprocity in Delaware

License reciprocity is a system where a state recognizes the licenses issued by another state. This means that if you’re a licensed electrician in one state, you may not have to go through the entire licensing process again if you want to work in a state that has a reciprocity agreement with your home state. This can save you time and money, and allow you to expand your business more easily.

In Delaware, there is reciprocity for electrical licenses from some states, reducing the examinations and paperwork required. However, it’s important to note that all contractors from Pennsylvania are ineligible to apply for any license by reciprocity in Delaware, and must apply by examination.

Electricians can apply by reciprocity in Delaware “if you hold a current license of the same type for which you are now applying that was issued by another state, U.S. territory or District of Columbia.” This means that if you’re a licensed electrician in a state that has a reciprocity agreement with Delaware, you can apply for a Delaware license without having to take the Delaware examination.

However, it’s important to remember that reciprocity is not automatic. You still have to apply for the Delaware license and meet any requirements that Delaware may have. Also, not all states have reciprocity agreements with Delaware, so you’ll need to check with the Delaware licensing board to see if your state is one of them.

License Bond Requirements in Delaware

In many states, electricians are required to post a license bond as part of their licensing requirements. A license bond is a type of surety bond that protects your customers in case you fail to fulfill your contractual obligations. It’s a form of financial guarantee that you will perform your work in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

In Delaware, electricians are required to post a license bond as part of their licensing requirements. The amount of the bond varies depending on the type of license you’re applying for. The bond serves to protect your customers in case you fail to fulfill your contractual obligations. If a claim is made against your bond, the surety company will pay out the claim up to the bond amount. You are then responsible for repaying the surety company.

Insurance Needs for Electricians in Delaware

As an electrician in Delaware, it’s important to have the right insurance coverage to protect your business. At a minimum, you should have General Liability Insurance. In Delaware, electricians are required to have a minimum of $300,000 in general liability insurance. This requirement applies to Master and Limited Electricians. This type of insurance protects your business from any covered claim for any injuries or damages to third-party persons or property as a result of your work. It also includes legal fees to defend your business from any covered claim.

In addition to General Liability Insurance, there are other types of insurance that you may need as an electrician in Delaware. These include:

  • Commercial Auto Insurance: This covers vehicles used in your business.
  • Inland Marine Insurance: This covers tools and equipment from loss or theft.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: This covers your employees from injury or illness caused by their employment.
  • Surety Bonds: These may be required for licenses, permits, or contractor registrations.
  • Umbrella Insurance Coverage: This covers you for catastrophic losses that exceed the underlying policy limits.

The exact insurance requirements for electricians in Delaware can vary depending on the specifics of your business, so it’s important to work with a knowledgeable insurance agent who can help you understand your needs and find the right coverage for your business.

Remember, having the right insurance coverage is not just about meeting legal requirements – it’s also about protecting your business, your employees, and your customers.

Conclusion

Becoming a licensed electrician in Delaware involves several steps, including establishing eligibility, applying for the license, taking the required exam, and submitting proof of insurance.

It’s important to stay up-to-date with continuing education requirements and renew your license on time. Always ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage as required by the state.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation’s website.

Please note that while this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, it’s always best to check with local and state authorities for the most current information. The field of electrical work is constantly evolving, and the requirements for licensure can change. Staying informed and up-to-date is a key part of being a successful electrician.