HowToGetLicensed

Electrician License: California vs North Carolina

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

Requirement California North Carolina
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) North Carolina Journeyman Electrician Exam
Application Fee $450 $50
Exam Fee $175 $75
Total Estimated Cost $2,500 - $5,500 $150 - $500
Renewal Period Every 3 years Every 1 year
CE Hours 32 hours 0 hours
Renewal Fee $100 $50

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: North Carolina is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $150-$500 compared to $2,500-$5,500.

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

Full State Guides

Compare electrician requirements across all 50 states →