HowToGetLicensed

Electrician License: California vs New York

Thinking about getting your electrician license? Here's how California and New York compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California New York
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 $100 - $600
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: New York is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $100-$600 compared to $2,500-$5,500.

Fewer education hours: New York requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 8000 hours in California.

Full State Guides

Compare electrician requirements across all 50 states →