Electrician License: California vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your electrician license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 8000 hours | 0 hours |
| Exam | California Electrical Certification Exam (for certified electrician) / CSLB C-10 Law & Business and Trade Exams (for contractor license) | Varies by municipality |
| Application Fee | $450 | $0 |
| Exam Fee | $175 | $0 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $2,500 - $5,500 | $50 - $500 |
| Renewal Period | Every 3 years | Every 1 year |
| CE Hours | 32 hours | 0 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $100 | $0 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $50-$500 compared to $2,500-$5,500.
Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 8000 hours in California.