Becoming an electrician is a highly rewarding, high-demand career, with jobs projected to grow nationally by 6% to 9% annually through 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This guide will help you navigate the licensing process in Arizona, outlining the specific steps and requirements you must complete. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your career, this guide provides the insights and resources you need to build your future as an electrician in Arizona.

Arizona Electrician License Requirements

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems. Most electricians learn through apprenticeship, while others attend technical school. The median annual wage for electricians was $62,350 in May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

While Arizona does not license electricians at the journeyman level, they do require licensure for contractors through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). Arizona has several electrical contractor licenses, depending on the type of work the electrician does:

  • Residential (R-11): Allows a contractor to install and repair residential electrical systems (work on homes). This is a specialty residential contracting classification.
  • Commercial (C-11): Permits a contractor to install, alter, and repair electrical wiring, related materials, and equipment used in electrical energy systems less than 600 volts in commercial and other non-residential settings (including utility hookups and distribution on private property).
  • Dual (CR-11): This classification authorizes the holder to perform both R-11 residential work and C-11 commercial electrical work under a single license.

Eligibility Criteria for an Electrician License in Arizona

  • You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or a GED before you begin your apprenticeship.
  • Obtain hands-on training
  • Gain post-apprenticeship experience. 
  • Apply for licensing through ROC.
  • Take the business management and trade exams. 

Required Documentation and Qualifications

To become an electrician in Arizona, individuals must meet specific experience, education, and documentation requirements to qualify for licensure. Key requirements generally include:

  • Establishing a Business Entity: LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, or partnership. There are two different applications depending on your business setup. LLCs and corporations must register with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Partnerships must be registered with the Arizona Secretary of State.
  • A Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service.
  • Papers for the legal entity.
  • Verified Work Experience: Applicants must document four years of hands-on electrical work experience (8,000 hours). This experience is typically gained through a registered apprenticeship or equivalent supervised employment and must be verifiable.
  • Classroom or Related Instruction: Completion of a minimum of 576 hours of classroom work. Note: Many electrical apprenticeship programs (especially union training like IBEW/NECA) require up to 900 related classroom hours as part of their structured training. Apprentices work under a licensed electrical contractor. The programs cover the components of an electrical system; how to install, repair, and troubleshoot it; the tools of the trade and how to use them; and the National Electrical Code (NEC) and Arizona code requirements.  
  • Affidavit of Experience: The affidavit must be signed by a licensed contractor, employer, or qualifying party who can attest to the scope and duration of work performed.
  • Trade Examination: Must pass the Arizona electrical trade exam, which tests knowledge of electrical theory, codes, safety practices, and applicable regulations, as well as a separate business management exam.
  • Legal and Administrative Requirements: Additional documentation includes government-issued ID, proof of legal presence, and, when applying for a contractor license, evidence of bonding, insurance, and financial responsibility as required by the AROC.

How to Become an Electrician in Arizona

The Application Process for an Electrical License in Arizona

  • Determine the correct license classification: Choose the appropriate electrical license type (R-11 Residential, C-11 Commercial, or CR-11 Dual).
  • Meet experience and education requirements: Document a minimum of four years (8,000 hours) of relevant electrical work experience, along with required classroom or related instruction.
  • Complete an Affidavit of Experience: Submit a signed affidavit from a licensed contractor, employer, or qualifying party verifying your work history and the scope of electrical work performed.
  • Submit an application to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC): Complete and file the contractor license application, including all required forms and fees.
  • Pass the required examinations: the Electrical Trade Exam and Arizona’s Statutes and Rules Exam (SRE).
  • Provide proof of bonding and insurance: Obtain and submit the required contractor license bond and any applicable insurance documentation: General Liability insurance to protect against third-party bodily injury and property damage, and Workers’ Compensation if you have employees. Arizona has state minimum General Liability coverage thresholds you must meet.
  • Complete background and legal requirements: All persons listed on a license application must complete a criminal background check, which can be accomplished online through AccusourceHR.
  • Include the fee for the contractor’s license, which will depend on the type and class of license you’re applying for. You can find a list of the fees here.
  • Complete and submit an application:
    • Log-in to the ROC Online Customer Portal.
    • Create an account here.
    • Or download and mail the Application Form to:
      • Registrar of Contractors, P.O. Box 6748, Phoenix, AZ 85005-6748
      • Or deliver the application to: 1700 West Washington Street, Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85007-2812
  • Receive license approval and issuance: Once all requirements are met and approved by the ROC, your electrical contractor license is issued, and you may legally perform work within your license scope.

Exam Preparation and Study Resources

The electrician trade exam has 110 questions, and you must score at least 70% to pass. The test is timed with a 240-minute (four-hour) limit. The topics covered are the same for the R-11 and C-11 exams; however, the number of questions per topic differs. Topics include general electrical knowledge; service feeders and branch circuits; grounding and bonding; conductors and cables; raceways and boxes; electrical devices; safety; photovoltaics; and more.  

The ROC website provides exam content outlines, while the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) supplies the NEC. Top resources include the latest NEC codebook, Mike Holt Exam Prep materials, and RocketCert courses for C-11/CR-11 licenses.

PSI is the testing provider for many AZ contractor exams and offers candidate information bulletins and practice tests.

Tips for Successfully Obtaining Your Arizona Electrician License

  • Confirm the correct license classification before applying to ensure your experience matches the scope of work.
  • Keep detailed records of your work history and training, including hours and job descriptions.
  • Choose a recognized apprenticeship or training program to avoid documentation issues.
  • Prepare thoroughly for the trade and business exams, with a focus on Arizona-specific requirements.
  • Verify bonding and insurance requirements early, so you don’t delay the approval process.  

How to Obtain Necessary Bonds and Insurance

Licensed electricians must maintain a Contractor’s License Bond. The required amount depends on your license classification and your projected annual gross volume of work: 

  • Residential Specialty (R-11):
    • $4,250 for annual volume under $375,000
    • $7,500 for annual volume of $375,000 or more
  • Commercial Specialty (C-11):
    • $2,500 for annual volume of $150,000 or less
    • $7,000 for $150,001 to $500,000
    • $17,500 for $500,001 to $1,000,000
    • $25,000 for $1,000,001 to $5,000,000

Dual Specialty (CR-11): The bond amount is the sum of the required residential and commercial bond amounts.

CCIS can provide you with a Contractor’s License Bond and the insurance you are required to carry. We’ve been serving contractors for more than 55 years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electrician Licenses in Arizona

Q. Where can I find official forms and resources for electrician licensing in Arizona?

A. The Arizona Registrar of Contractors has the official forms and resources you need for licensing.

Q. Are there insurance products available for electrical contractors through CCIS?

A. CCIS can provide you with a portfolio of insurance products, including General Liability and Workers’ Comp insurance, Excess Liability, and Contractors Tools & Equipment to protect the tools of your trade.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal, licensing, or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and bond amounts may change and can vary by applicant. Always verify requirements directly with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and applicable local jurisdictions. Consult with your legal professional concerning your compliance as to your business operations.