In the state of Montana, electricians are required to hold a license to perform electrical work. This requirement is overseen by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, State Electrical Board. The state issues five types of electrical licenses: Residential, Journeyman, Master, Limited Electrical Contractor, and Unlimited Electrical Contractor. While apprentices are not licensed, they are required to register with the State Electrical Board. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of each license type, the steps required to obtain them, and the necessary requirements for license renewal.

Licensing Types and Requirements

1. Residential Electrician License

A Residential Electrician License in Montana allows electricians to perform electrical work on residential properties. To attain this license, applicants must pass an examination and meet one of the following three requirements for experience:

  • Completion of an electrical trade apprenticeship program or equivalent training program approved by the State Electrical Board. This typically involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training under the supervision of a licensed electrician.
  • 8,000 hours of practical experience installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring and heating, lighting, and power equipment. This experience must be documented and verified by a licensed electrician or a supervisor familiar with the applicant’s work.
  • 20,000 hours of employment in the electrical maintenance field with a minimum of 8,000 hours of practical experience. This option is typically for those who have extensive experience in the electrical field but have not completed a formal apprenticeship program.

The examination for the Residential Electrician License is an open-book test that consists of 50 questions. These questions cover topics such as the National Electrical Code, Ohm’s Law, and the layout and installation of electrical circuits. Applicants must achieve a score of 75% or higher to pass the exam. The exam lasts for two and a half hours and costs $50. Upon passing the exam, the license application fee is $240.

2. Journeyman Electrician License

A Journeyman Electrician License in Montana allows electricians to perform a broader range of electrical work without the supervision of a master electrician. To obtain this license, applicants must pass an examination based on the National Electrical Code. The State Electrical Board must approve the exam application. Applicants must meet one of the following experience qualifications:

  • Completion of an electrical trade apprenticeship program or equivalent training program approved by the State Electrical Board. This is similar to the requirement for the Residential Electrician License and involves both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
  • 8,000 hours of practical experience installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring and heating, lighting, and power equipment. This experience must be documented and verified by a licensed electrician or a supervisor familiar with the applicant’s work.
  • 20,000 hours of employment in the electrical maintenance field with a minimum of 8,000 hours of practical experience. This option is typically for those who have extensive experience in the electrical field but have not completed a formal apprenticeship program.

The examination for the Journeyman Electrician License consists of 60 questions covering the National Electrical Code, Ohm’s Law, and the layout and installation of electrical circuits. Applicants have three hours to complete the exam and must achieve a score of 75% or higher to pass. The exam fee is $60.

3. Master Electrician License

A Master Electrician License in Montana allows electricians to perform all types of electrical work and supervise other electricians. To obtain this license, applicants must pass an examination. The State Electrical Board must approve the examination application. In addition, applicants must have one of the following types of experience:

  • An electrical engineering degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 2,000 hours of practical experience. This option is for those who have completed a formal education in electrical engineering and have some practical experience in the field.
  • 8,000 hours of journeyman practice installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring and heating, lighting, and power equipment, of which 20 to 50% must be spent working on residences. This option is for those who have extensive experience as a journeyman electrician, including significant residential work.

The examination for the Master Electrician License consists of 80 questions. It’s an open-book exam. Test topics include electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, electrical circuit layouts, cost estimates, procurement, and handling.

4. Limited Electrical Contractor

A Limited Electrical Contractor License in Montana allows electricians to perform electrical work on residential construction consisting of five or fewer units. To be licensed as a limited electrical contractor, candidates must either be a journeyman electrician or employ a journeyman electrician in a full-time capacity. The candidate also must submit proof that he or she carries Montana Workers’ Compensation insurance and unemployment insurance. This ensures that the contractor is covered in case of workplace accidents or unemployment.

5. Unlimited Electrical Contractor

An Unlimited Electrical Contractor License in Montana allows electricians to perform electrical work on all types of structures, including residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings. Individuals applying for this license must either be master electricians themselves or employ a master electrician full time. They also need to submit proof that they carry Montana Workers’ Compensation insurance and unemployment insurance. This ensures that the contractor is covered in case of workplace accidents or unemployment.

License Renewal

All electricians’ licenses in Montana are valid for a two-year period. The license renewal fee for Residential, Journeyman, and Master Electrician Licenses is $135; the license renewal fee for Limited and Unlimited Electrical Contractors is $275. To renew a license, electricians must submit a renewal application to the State Electrical Board along with the renewal fee. It’s important to note that electricians may also be required to complete continuing education courses as a condition of license renewal.

Electrician License Reciprocity

Electrician license reciprocity is a mutual agreement between states that allows an electrician licensed in one state to obtain a license in another state without having to go through the full licensing process again. This can be a significant advantage for electricians looking to expand their services across state lines, as it can save time and money.

In the context of Montana, it’s important to note that reciprocity agreements can vary significantly from state to state. Some states may have broad reciprocity agreements, while others may have more limited agreements or no reciprocity at all. The specific requirements for reciprocity can also vary, including the need for certain exams, proof of experience, and good standing with the licensing board.

According to the information from Procore’s guide to license reciprocity, Montana has reciprocity agreements with several states for the journeyman electrician license, including Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. For the master electrician license, Montana has reciprocity with South Dakota and Utah. However, it’s always recommended to check with the Montana State Electrical Board for the most current information.

License Bond Requirements in Montana

In Montana, electricians are required to post a license bond as part of the licensing process. This bond is a type of surety bond that provides a financial guarantee that the electrician will comply with all state regulations and codes in their work. If the electrician fails to comply with these regulations, a claim can be made against the bond.

The bond amount required varies depending on the type of electrician license. For example, a residential electrician is required to post a $4,000 bond, while a journeyman electrician is required to post a $1,000 bond. An unlimited electrical contractor, on the other hand, is required to post a $15,000 bond.

Insurance Needs for Electricians in Montana

Insurance is a crucial aspect of running an electrician business in Montana. It provides financial protection against potential risks and liabilities that can arise from the job. According to Farmer Brown Insurance, at a bare minimum, electricians should obtain General Liability Insurance to protect their business and their customers. This policy offers protection from any covered claim for any injuries or damages to third-party persons or property as a result of your work, including legal fees to defend your business from any covered claim.

In most states, General Liability Insurance for Electricians is not mandatory, but it’s highly recommended. The minimum requirement for coverage is usually around $1 million, but this can vary depending on the specific needs and risks of your business.

In addition to General Liability Insurance, other types of insurance that electricians in Montana may need 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.

Remember, the specific insurance needs can vary depending on the size and scope of your business, so it’s always a good idea to consult with an insurance professional to ensure you have the right coverage.

Conclusion

Becoming a licensed electrician in Montana involves meeting specific experience requirements, passing an examination, and paying the necessary fees. Once licensed, electricians must renew their licenses every two years and maintain appropriate insurance coverage. With reciprocity agreements in place with several states, Montana offers a conducive environment for electricians to practice their trade.

For more information, please visit the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, State Electrical Board.

Please note that while this guide aims to provide comprehensive information, requirements may change, and it is always a good idea to check with the local licensing authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information.