How to Become an Electrician in California
A career as an electrician in California is a smart choice for those willing to learn and work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field is growing by 18%, with 9,140 annual job openings through 2030. Electricians can earn good wages, but the path to becoming licensed takes several years to complete. [En Español]
An electrician is a tradesperson who installs, maintains, and repairs electrical wiring in buildings, machines, and transmission lines. They handle new installations and maintain existing electrical systems. Some electricians specialize in airplanes, ships, automobiles, or data cabling.
Requirements for Becoming an Electrician in California
The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) regulates electrician licensing in California. You can visit their official website at CSLB for information on licensing requirements, applications, exams, and regulations for electricians and contractors in the state.
To become an electrician in California, you must complete an education program through a vocational school, technical school, or an apprenticeship program. Both union and non-union apprenticeships are available. The Division of Labor Standards Enforcement maintains a list of approved programs, while the California Apprenticeship Council (CAC) oversees apprenticeship approvals.
Approved union apprenticeship programs in California are available through the Electrical Training Alliance, which operates Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) offices across the state. The Alliance is a partnership between the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) state chapters and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Approved non-union apprenticeships are offered by the state chapters (Northern California and Southern California) of Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc.
Electrical training programs combine classroom instruction and hands-on experience. In the classroom, students learn the National Electrical Code (NEC), electrical installation, wiring, and blueprint reading. On-the-job training with a qualified professional teaches how to use industry tools and plan jobs efficiently.
To complete the hands-on training portion of an electrician program in California, you must register as an electrician trainee (ET). To qualify, you must be enrolled in an approved electrician school or apprenticeship program and submit an application with a $25 fee to the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement. The trainee license must be renewed annually.
After completing an electrician training program and meeting the required practice hours, you can take the licensing exams. To become a residential electrician, you must complete 150 hours of classroom instruction and 4,800 hours of on-the-job training. For a general electrician license, you need 150 classroom hours and 8,000 hours of supervised work experience.
To become an electrical contractor in California and operate your own business, you must apply for and pass the C-10 license exam. Requirements include four years of full-time work experience as an electrician and at least $2,500 in operating capital. Unlike some states, California does not offer advantages to those with an electrical engineering degree. Becoming a licensed contractor is the ultimate goal for many electricians, as it provides independence and higher earning potential.
Electrician Schools in California
The California Department of Industrial Relations lists 89 approved electrician programs across the state, providing many options for training. Enrollment in one of these programs is required to register as an electrician trainee and start the path to licensing. Courses cover electrical lab projects, National Electrical Code (NEC) studies, power system analysis, electrical wiring, algebra, and basic mathematics.
- Long Beach City College. The main campus of this school in Long Beach offers an approved training program that includes 150 hours of coursework each year, day or evening classes, and the option of earning a certificate or an associate degree. There are several important steps to take in order to officially enroll, including an orientation session with the college’s instructors.
- Los Angeles Trade Technical College. This community college, with its campus in Los Angeles, also offers day and evening programs. Students can choose between a certificate program and an associate of science degree. Students also work with licensed electricians to begin getting hours of work experience. More information on LATTC’s electrician program.
- San Mateo County Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Center. Located in the San Francisco Bay area, this program takes five years to complete and includes two nights of classroom work per week and a total of at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training. This meets all requirements for applying for residential and general electrician licensing upon completion.
- Redwood Empire Joint Apprenticeship and Training Center. Also located in northern California, this union program offers students a five-year comprehensive training plan to become eligible for licensing. Apprentices get 900 hours of classroom time with instructors and 8,000 hours on-the-job. There are also three-year programs for becoming a residential wireman or an installer technician.
- Northwest Lineman College. Graduates of the Electrical Lineworker Program construct, operate and maintain the electric power grid, working with heavy equipment, power lines, and bucket trucks. Based in Oroville.
Outlook and Salary Expectations
The growth in careers for electricians in the state of California is strong. According to the BLS, there were 70,300 electricians working in the state in 2023, and projections are that there will be 9,140 more working by 2033, a big increase that means there are plenty of opportunities for electrician trainees right now.
Salaries are competitive in the Golden State. In 2023, the average annual wage for an electrician was $77,470, but the average for the top 10 percent of earners was over $113,340. There are great opportunities in the state for qualified and licensed electricians to find jobs, to work as independent contractors and to earn a high income.
Salaries by Occupation
| Occupation | Total Employment | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Wage | Annual Salary 10th Percentile | Annual Salary 25th Percentile | Annual Salary 75th Percentile | Annual Salary 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricians | 70,300 | $37.25 | $77,470 | $46,580 | $58,140 | $101,470 | $133,340 |
| Helpers--Electricians | 2,900 | $19.07 | $39,670 | $32,240 | $34,980 | $50,640 | $61,620 |
| Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment | 1,100 | $39.37 | $81,890 | $36,630 | $78,620 | $101,600 | $125,130 |
| Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment | 3,700 | $32.90 | $68,440 | $41,450 | $49,450 | $88,280 | $113,240 |
| Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay | 1,800 | $54.35 | $113,050 | $68,300 | $98,270 | $133,950 | $150,440 |
| Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers | 9,200 | $54.04 | $112,410 | $62,510 | $81,500 | $141,840 | $152,640 |
Electrician Salaries by Region
| Area | Total Employment | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary | Hourly Wage 10th Percentile | Hourly Wage 25th Percentile | Hourly Wage 75th Percentile | Hourly Wage 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bakersfield, CA | 1,490 | $35.00 | $72,800 | $21.98 | $27.21 | $42.77 | $54.52 |
| Chico, CA | 410 | $33.52 | $69,720 | $22.17 | $26.89 | $40.58 | $51.01 |
| El Centro, CA | 100 | $35.68 | $74,220 | $22.01 | $28.05 | $44.94 | $51.99 |
| Fresno, CA | 1,870 | $30.45 | $63,340 | $21.34 | $22.87 | $43.12 | $55.08 |
| Hanford-Corcoran, CA | 90 | $31.55 | $65,630 | $22.29 | $27.67 | $41.01 | $44.33 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 22,670 | $37.78 | $78,590 | $22.46 | $25.42 | $48.56 | $62.88 |
| Madera, CA | 150 | $39.19 | $81,520 | $23.41 | $29.79 | $45.62 | $56.70 |
| Merced, CA | 110 | $36.69 | $76,320 | $20.71 | $27.78 | $40.55 | $54.97 |
| Modesto, CA | 720 | $35.16 | $73,120 | $21.59 | $27.66 | $44.36 | $47.69 |
| Napa, CA | 300 | $37.48 | $77,950 | $23.20 | $29.06 | $49.72 | $59.90 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | 840 | $34.41 | $71,580 | $22.12 | $27.52 | $43.49 | $56.55 |
| Redding, CA | 240 | $37.41 | $77,810 | $22.25 | $28.59 | $45.74 | $63.87 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | 7,530 | $33.40 | $69,480 | $18.60 | $23.51 | $46.08 | $62.41 |
| Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA | 4,910 | $35.66 | $74,170 | $22.53 | $24.89 | $46.94 | $60.00 |
| Salinas, CA | 500 | $36.42 | $75,750 | $22.86 | $28.93 | $46.47 | $56.99 |
| San Diego-Carlsbad, CA | 7,640 | $34.94 | $72,680 | $22.12 | $25.19 | $46.15 | $55.93 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 11,550 | $47.38 | $98,560 | $24.97 | $31.11 | $61.85 | $82.41 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | 3,870 | $47.58 | $98,970 | $27.15 | $34.04 | $62.51 | $81.51 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA | 570 | $39.59 | $82,350 | $22.92 | $29.39 | $48.38 | $67.88 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA | 420 | $36.33 | $75,560 | $23.24 | $29.06 | $45.39 | $49.87 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | 700 | $31.93 | $66,410 | $22.56 | $28.40 | $43.90 | $47.62 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | 1,160 | $36.91 | $76,760 | $22.79 | $28.98 | $49.35 | $60.23 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | 1,090 | $36.31 | $75,530 | $19.37 | $24.95 | $45.74 | $56.93 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | 1,150 | $39.91 | $83,020 | $24.12 | $29.76 | $49.30 | $63.75 |
| Visalia-Porterville, CA | 530 | $33.90 | $70,510 | $21.39 | $24.42 | $40.80 | $50.78 |
| Yuba City, CA | 90 | $34.77 | $72,330 | $18.88 | $24.44 | $41.22 | $47.87 |
Working as an Electrician in California
Sharing its borders with Arizona, Nevada, Oregon and the Pacific Ocean, the most populous state in the nation – 39.5 million – offers plenty of opportunity.
Electrician jobs in California are growing and expected to continue increasing. Licensed electricians can work for contractors and construction companies or become independent contractors, hiring other electricians for a contracting business. Many specialize in residential or commercial buildings, while others focus on refrigeration, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), or solar energy (photovoltaics) systems. No matter the path, becoming a qualified electrician in California offers job security and strong earning potential.
College Programs
56 California colleges report an electrician or electrical technology program to the National Center for Education Statistics (College Navigator export, July 2026). They are listed alphabetically by city. Tuition figures are the school’s own IPEDS filing for the program named, not a quote; confirm current costs with the school.
525 N. Muller Street, Anaheim, California 92801-3758
(714) 300-0300
General Electrician – Certificate Program
Southern California Institute of Technology is a private for-profit 4-year institution in Anaheim, CA, with 537 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $20,515.
1801 Panorama Dr, Bakersfield, California 93305-1299
(661) 395-4011
Electrical and Electronic Systems – Certificate Program, Electrician – Associate Program
Bakersfield College is a public 4-year institution in Bakersfield, CA, with 30,410 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,430 in-state and $11,300 out-of-state.
201 New Stine Road, Bakersfield, California 93309-2659
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Bakersfield is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Bakersfield, CA, with 820 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Its Electrical Technology program runs 40 credit hours and is typically completed in 10 months, with tuition and fees of $26,444.
3737 Rosedale Highway, Bakersfield, California 93308-0000
(661) 427-4300
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Bakersfield is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Bakersfield, CA, with 1,385 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Its Electrician Technician program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
4640 N. Maine Ave, Baldwin Park, California 91706-4221
(626) 939-4456
Electrician – Certificate Program
Baldwin Park Adult & Community Education is a public under-2-year institution in Baldwin Park, CA, with 435 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,665 for the school’s largest program.
1261 Third Avenue, Suite A, Chula Vista, California 91911-3262
(619) 409-4111
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Chula Vista is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Chula Vista, CA, with 1,344 students (all undergraduate). Its Electrician Technician program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
6249 Sunrise Blvd, Citrus Heights, California 95610
(916) 969-4900
Electrician – Certificate Program
National Career Education is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Citrus Heights, CA, with 438 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $15,444 for the school’s largest program.
1099 N. Pepper Ave, Colton, California 92324
(408) 287-7924
Electrician – Certificate Program
CET-Colton is a private not-for-profit under-2-year institution in Colton, CA, with 191 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $16,375 for the school’s largest program.
2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, California 92626
(714) 432-5072
Residential Electrical – Certificate Program
Orange Coast College is a public 2-year institution in Costa Mesa, CA, with 17,085 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,392 in-state and $11,640 out-of-state.
7351 Tompkins Hill Rd, Eureka, California 95501-9300
(707) 476-4100
Electrician – Certificate Program, Electrician – Certificate Program
College of the Redwoods is a public 2-year institution in Eureka, CA, with 4,260 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,198 in-state and $8,854 out-of-state.
320 Campus Ln Suite C, Fairfield, California 94534
(707) 421-9700
Electrician – Certificate Program
InterCoast Colleges-Fairfield is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Fairfield, CA, with 139 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $22,500 for the school’s largest program.
11460 Warner Ave., Fountain Valley, California 92708-2597
(714) 546-7600
Electrician – Associate Program
Coastline Community College is a public 2-year institution in Fountain Valley, CA, with 8,576 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,364 in-state and $11,612 out-of-state.
4985 East Anderson Avenue, Fresno, California 93727-1501
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Trades Education Center is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Fresno, CA, with 292 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Its Electrical Technology program runs 64 credit hours and is typically completed in 14 months, with tuition and fees of $39,182.
661 West Redondo Beach Boulevard, Gardena, California 90247-4201
(424) 246-3000
Electrician Training – Certificate Program
UEI College-Gardena is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Gardena, CA, with 1,444 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Its Electrician Training program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
9331 Mariposa Road, Hesperia, California 92344-8086
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Hesperia is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Hesperia, CA, with 437 students (all undergraduate). Its Electrical Technology program runs 40 credit hours and is typically completed in 10 months, with tuition and fees of $26,444.
6055 Pacific Boulevard, Huntington Park, California 90255-2933
(323) 319-9500
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Huntington Park is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Huntington Park, CA, with 1,036 students (all undergraduate). Its Electrician Technician program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
380 E. Aten Road, Imperial, California 92251-0158
(760) 352-8320
Electrical Technology – Associate Program, Electrical Technology: General Electrician – Certificate Program, Electrical and Power Transmission Installation/Installer, General – Certificate Program
Imperial Valley College is a public 2-year institution in Imperial, CA, with 8,111 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,148 in-state and $8,852 out-of-state.
5500 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, California 92618-0301
(949) 451-5100
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program, Electrician – Associate Program
Irvine Valley College is a public 2-year institution in Irvine, CA, with 11,994 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,156 in-state and $11,860 out-of-state.
3041 West Ave K, Lancaster, California 93536-5426
(661) 722-6300
Electrical Technology – Associate Program, Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
Antelope Valley Community College District is a public 4-year institution in Lancaster, CA, with 12,937 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,124 in-state and $9,548 out-of-state.
12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills, California 94022
(650) 949-7777
Inside Wireman – Associate Program, Inside Wireman – Certificate Program
Foothill College is a public 4-year institution in Los Altos Hills, CA, with 12,931 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,565 in-state and $12,590 out-of-state.
400 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, California 90015-4181
(213) 763-7000
Electrical Construction and Maintenance – Associate Program, Electrical Construction and Maintenance – Certificate Program
Los Angeles Trade Technical College is a public 2-year institution in Los Angeles, CA, with 12,655 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,238 in-state and $10,572 out-of-state.
3600 M St, Merced, California 95348-2806
(209) 384-6000
Industrial Electrical Technician – Associate Program
Merced College is a public 2-year institution in Merced, CA, with 11,835 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,200 in-state and $8,520 out-of-state.
435 College Ave, Modesto, California 95350-5800
(209) 575-6550
Electrician – Certificate Program
Modesto Junior College is a public 4-year institution in Modesto, CA, with 17,152 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,282 in-state and $9,264 out-of-state.
2001 Third St, Norco, California 92860
(951) 372-7000
Electrician – Certificate Program, Electrician – Certificate Program
Norco College is a public 2-year institution in Norco, CA, with 10,787 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,428 in-state and $12,498 out-of-state.
900 Fallon Sreet, Oakland, California 94607
(510) 834-5740
Electrical technology – Certificate Program, technology – Certificate Program
Laney College is a public 2-year institution in Oakland, CA, with 10,211 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,258 in-state and $9,898 out-of-state.
2027 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, California 92058-2321
(760) 690-5200
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Oceanside is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Oceanside, CA, with 777 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $21,500 for the school’s largest program.
4580 Ontario Mills Parkway, Ontario, California 91764-5107
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Ontario is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Ontario, CA, with 1,064 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $26,444 for the school’s largest program.
4730 Ontario Mills Parkway, Ontario, California 91764-5574
(909) 476-2424
Electrician Training – Certificate Program
UEI College-Ontario is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Ontario, CA, with 930 students (all undergraduate). Its Electrician Training program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
8045 E Chapman, Orange, California 92869-4512
(714) 628-4900
Electrician – Associate Program, Electrician – Certificate Program, General Electrician – Certificate Program
Santiago Canyon College is a public 2-year institution in Orange, CA, with 11,979 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,164 in-state and $9,612 out-of-state.
1200 N. Fair Oaks Ave Suite 32, Pasadena, California 91103
(626) 486-1000
Electrician – Certificate Program
Capstone College is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Pasadena, CA, with 140 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Its Electrician program runs 66 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $19,250 and books and supplies of $200.
9738 Lincoln Village Dr. Suite 120, Rancho Cordova, California 95827
(916) 714-5400
Electrician – Certificate Program
InterCoast Colleges-Rancho Cordova is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Rancho Cordova, CA, with 78 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $22,500 for the school’s largest program.
5885 Haven Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, California 91737-3002
(909) 652-6000
Industrial Electrical Technology – Associate Program, Industrial Electrical Technology Level I – Certificate Program, Industrial Electrical Technology Level II – Certificate Program
Chaffey College is a public 2-year institution in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, with 20,632 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,184 in-state and $11,120 out-of-state.
34275 Monterey Avenue, Rancho Mirage, California 92270-2701
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Associate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Rancho Mirage is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Rancho Mirage, CA, with 260 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $26,444 for the school’s largest program.
21840 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, California 92508
(951) 779-0700
Electrician – Certificate Program
InterCoast Colleges-Riverside is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Riverside, CA, with 63 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $22,500 for the school’s largest program.
1860 University Avenue, Riverside, California 92507-5344
(951) 300-5500
Electrician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Riverside is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Riverside, CA, with 1,447 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Its Electrician program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
4700 College Oak Dr, Sacramento, California 95841-4286
(916) 484-8011
Electrician – Certificate Program, Electrician – Certificate Program
American River College is a public 2-year institution in Sacramento, CA, with 29,908 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,288 in-state and $12,616 out-of-state.
9856 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, California 95827-1741
(916) 332-3332
Electrician Trainee – Certificate Program
Independent Training & Apprenticeship Program is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Sacramento, CA, with 102 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Council on Occupational Education. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $17,895 for the school’s largest program.
4424 Florin Road, Suite D & E, Sacramento, California 95823-2512
(916) 306-5185
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Sacramento is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Sacramento, CA, with 1,086 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Its Electrician Technician program runs 36 credit hours and is typically completed in 9 months, with tuition and fees of $21,500.
5380 Pirrone Road, Salida, California 95368-9090
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Modesto is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Salida, CA, with 590 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Its Electrical Technology program runs 64 credit hours and is typically completed in 14 months, with tuition and fees of $39,182.
701 South Mount Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino, California 92410-2798
(909) 384-4400
Electric Power Technology – Associate Program, Electric Power Technology – Certificate Program, Electrical and Power Transmission Installation/Installer, General – Certificate Program
San Bernardino Valley College is a public 2-year institution in San Bernardino, CA, with 12,982 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,196 in-state and $4,528 out-of-state.
804 E Brier Dr, San Bernardino, California 92408
(909) 422-8950 x3270
Electrician – Certificate Program
Summit College is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in San Bernardino, CA, with 1,210 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $18,995 for the school’s largest program.
1313 Park Boulevard, San Diego, California 92101-4787
(619) 388-3400
Electricity – Associate Program, Electrical and Power Transmission Installation/Installer, General – Certificate Program
San Diego City College is a public 2-year institution in San Diego, CA, with 13,197 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,146 in-state and $10,002 out-of-state.
50 Frida Kahlo Drive, San Francisco, California 94112-1898
(415) 239-3000
Electrician – Certificate Program
City College of San Francisco is a public 2-year institution in San Francisco, CA, with 17,808 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,696 in-state and $14,656 out-of-state.
701 Vine St, San Jose, California 95110
(408) 287-7924
Electrician – Certificate Program
CET-San Jose is a private not-for-profit under-2-year institution in San Jose, CA, with 175 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $16,375 for the school’s largest program.
91 East Tasman Drive, San Jose, California 95134-1620
(408) 727-1060 x260
Electrician Training – Certificate Program
Institute for Business and Technology is a private for-profit 2-year institution in San Jose, CA, with 609 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $18,000 for the school’s largest program.
Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, California 93403-8106
(805) 546-3100
Electrical Technology – Associate Program, Electrician – Certificate Program
Cuesta College is a public 2-year institution in San Luis Obispo, CA, with 10,437 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,350 in-state and $11,010 out-of-state.
1140 W. Mission Road, San Marcos, California 92069-1487
(760) 744-1150
Electrical Engineering – Certificate Program, Electrical Engineering Drafting and Design Technology – Associate Program
Palomar College is a public 2-year institution in San Marcos, CA, with 18,815 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,354 in-state and $10,650 out-of-state.
1700 W Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo, California 94402-3784
(650) 574-6161
Electrical Technology – Associate Program, Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
College of San Mateo is a public 2-year institution in San Mateo, CA, with 9,208 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,332 in-state and $11,384 out-of-state.
26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, California 91355-1899
(661) 259-7800
Electrician – Certificate Program
College of the Canyons is a public 2-year institution in Santa Clarita, CA, with 17,439 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,166 in-state and $10,958 out-of-state.
930 Los Coches Drive, Suite 103, Soledad, California 93960-2996
(408) 287-7924
Electrician – Certificate Program
CET-Soledad is a private not-for-profit under-2-year institution in Soledad, CA, with 179 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $16,375 for the school’s largest program.
5151 Pacific Ave, Stockton, California 95207
(209) 954-5151
Electrical Maintenance – Certificate Program, Electrical Technology – Certificate Program, Electrical Technology – Associate Program
San Joaquin Delta College is a public 2-year institution in Stockton, CA, with 18,226 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,180 in-state and $9,772 out-of-state.
4994 Claremont Avenue, Stockton, California 95207-0000
(209) 774-5300
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-Stockton is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in Stockton, CA, with 823 students (all undergraduate). Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $21,500 for the school’s largest program.
27270 Madison Avenue, Temecula, California 92590-5678
(559) 734-9000
Electrical Technology – Certificate Program
San Joaquin Valley College-Temecula is a private for-profit 2-year institution in Temecula, CA, with 649 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $26,444 for the school’s largest program.
915 S. Mooney Blvd, Visalia, California 93277-2214
(559) 730-3700
Electrical Technology – Associate Program, Electrician Training – Certificate Program, Electrician – Certificate Program
College of the Sequoias is a public 2-year institution in Visalia, CA, with 13,586 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges. Tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $1,394 in-state and $9,038 out-of-state.
2235 East Garvey Ave. North Suite B, West Covina, California 91791
(626) 337-6800
Electrician – Certificate Program
InterCoast Colleges-West Covina is a private for-profit 4-year institution in West Covina, CA, with 507 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Its Electrician program runs 49 credit hours and is typically completed in 10 months, with tuition and fees of $22,500.
339 N. Azusa Avenue, West Covina, California 91731-2806
(626) 927-9000
Electrician Technician – Certificate Program
UEI College-West Covina is a private for-profit under-2-year institution in West Covina, CA, with 1,022 students (all undergraduate). It is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training. Reported tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $21,500 for the school’s largest program.
Registered electrical apprenticeship sponsors in California
Apprenticeship is how most California electricians train, and the programs below are registered with the US Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship (partner sponsor file dated 2026-09-09). Only training providers are listed: employer sponsors that register their own apprentices are not, and the file names sponsors without listing their occupations, so a sponsor whose name does not say electrical is not caught.
| Sponsor | City | Type | Registered since |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAN MATEO COUNTY JOINT APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINING COMMITTEE FOR THE ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY | San Carlos | IBEW/NECA JATC | 1940 |
| REDWOOD EMPIRE ELECTRICAL J.A.T.C. | Santa Rosa | other registered program | 1942 |
| CAL-NEV POWER LINEMAN J.A.T.C. | Riverside | lineman college | 1970 |
| CITY OF GLENDALE – STATION ELECTRICIAN/ OPERATOR JOINT APPRENTICESHIP COMMITTEE | Glendale | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2005 |
| SAN FRANCISCO JATC FOR THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY | San Francisco | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Sacramento Electrical JATC | Sacramento | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| San Joaquin & Calaveras Counties Electrical JATC | Stockton | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Solano – Napa Counties Electrical JATC | Napa | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Fresno, Madera, Kings & Tulare County Electrical JATC | Fresno | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| REDWOOD EMPIRE ELECTRICAL JATC | Santa Rosa | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| SANTA BARBARA COUNTY ELECTRICAL JATC | Santa Maria | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| San Luis Obispo Electrical Workers JATC | San Luis Obispo | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| San Mateo Electrical Training Alliance | San Carlos | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Contra Costa Co. Electrical JATC | Martinez | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| San Bernardino, Mono & Inyo Counties Electrical JATC | San Bernardino | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Tri-County Electrical JATC | Castroville | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Ventura Co. Electrical JATC | Oxnard | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Los Angeles County Electrical JATC | City Of Commerce | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Orange County Electrical Training Trust | Santa Ana | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| ALAMEDA COUNTY ELECTRICAL JATC | San Leandro | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| San Diego & Imperial County Electrical JATC | San Diego | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| Riverside Area Electrical JATC | San Bernardino | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2007 |
| IBEW LU 40 – L.A. County NECA JATC | North Hollywood | IBEW/NECA JATC | 2013 |
| City of Banning Electric Utility Apprenticeship Program | Banning | other registered program | 2020 |
College details are from the National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator (nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator), as exported in July 2026; apprenticeship sponsors are from apprenticeship.gov as of 2026-09-09. Program links were checked on 2026-09-16. Check all details directly with the school or sponsor before applying.
Neighbor States
See also the neighbor states of Arizona, Nevada and Oregon.
FAQs
How much do electricians earn in the state of California?
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians in the state of California made an average of $70,460 per year in 2019. Entry-level electricians earned around $36,050 and some experienced professionals earned salaries as high as $116,840.
