To become an electrician in Massachusetts, you must get a license from the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Electricians (BSEE), a branch of the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure. BSEE grants four types of licenses: “A,” for Master Electricians; “B,” for Journeyman Electricians; “C,” for Systems Contractors; and “D,” for Systems Technicians. A “B” Journeyman License is considered a basic license. BSEE sets minimum standards for licensees and enforces Massachusetts laws and regulations regarding electrical installations.

Gain apprenticeship experience. In the case of a Journeyman License, you must have 8,000 hours of documented work experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician. You and your supervisor must keep detailed records of your experience on a BSEE Employment Verification Form.

Complete educational instruction. For a Journeyman License, you must have at least a high school diploma and 600 hours of electrical training in a trade school or community college environment.

Apply to write your certification examination. PSI conducts examinations on behalf of BSEE. You can request an application from PSI (see Resources). You must include your work experience forms, completion of education certificates and applicable fees with your application. This exam application also acts as your license application. Submit your application to:

PSI Examination Services 3210 E Tropicana Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89121 800-733-9267 psiexams.com

Take your certification examination. These exams are conducted on-line at PSI locations throughout the state. Examinations vary depending on your type of license, but most of the examinations are offered in two parts and take four to six hours to complete. If you pass both parts of your examination, BSEE will grant you a license.