Does New York require an electrical license? No, you do not need a New York electrical license. Within rural upstate New York, you can do electrical work without any license. However, in other jurisdictions, you may be required to have a license at both the county and municipal level.

In some cities, potential electricians can earn the equivalent of a journeyman license in about four years. Other cities, such as New York City, have more strict guidelines and require a minimum of 7.5 years of experience before you can apply for licensure.

Licensure: In New York, electricians are required to hold a license to work. To obtain a license, you need to complete a state-approved apprenticeship program, pass a written exam, and submit an application to the state licensing board.