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So much of modern life depends on electricity. It lights homes, powers electronics, and makes everyday tasks more convenient. As a result, talented electricians are always in demand. 

If you’re looking for a skilled trade that offers stability, good pay, and the opportunity to become your own boss, becoming an electrician is a great choice. However, you will first have to obtain a license from the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. What are the requirements for the license, and how can you plan for success? 

Prerequisites for Obtaining a License

You must be 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent to apply for an electrical license. You must complete at least four years of training through an apprenticeship or have a relevant four-year degree plus one year of trade experience. Then, you’ll take the state trade exam to obtain a journeyman electrician license. 

From there, you’ll have to put in 4,000 hours as a journeyman electrician before you can apply for a master electrician license. Alternatively, you may skip the journeyman stage and simply complete 12,000 total hours of suitable work experience. 

When you apply for a master electrician license, you must provide proof of three completed jobs in your requested classification. You must also provide proof of current liability insurance coverage, as well as three letters of reference — one from a financial institution and two from coworkers or supervisors in your field.  

Finally, you must pass the required trade and business exams. 

What Can You Expect From Required Exams?

For the trade exam requirement, you have two options. First is the state-administered Master Electrician Exam. This open-book test consists of 80 questions covering the following topics: 

• Service, feeders, and branch circuits 
• General electrical knowledge 
• Grounding and bonding 
• Raceways and boxes 
• Conductors and cables 
• Special occupancies and equipment 
• Motors 
• Electrical power 
• Low voltage 
• Illuminated signs 
• Lighting 
• Fire detection and alarm systems 
• Overcurrent protection 
• Safety information 

You will have 180 minutes to complete the exam, and you must answer at least 56 questions correctly to pass.  

Your other option is the NASCLA Electrical Exam. This national test, recognized in several states, consists of 100 questions on topics like these: 

• Safety 
• Project design and management 
• Electrical theory and principles 
• Wiring and protection 
• General code requirements 
• Wiring methods and materials 
• Special occupations, special equipment, and special conditions 
• Equipment for general use 
• Communication systems 

You will have 270 minutes to complete this open-book test, and you must answer a minimum of 75 questions correctly to pass.  

In addition to your preferred trade exam, you must pass the state Law and Business Management Exam, featuring 50 questions on the following topics: 

• Licensing 
• Lien law 
• Estimating and bidding 
• Financial management 
• Labor laws 
• Tax laws 
• Project management 
• Business organization 
• Contracts 
• Environmental and safety 
• Risk management 

You will have 120 minutes to complete this open-book test, and you must answer at least 35 questions correctly to pass. 

Preparation Is the Key to Success

Passing your exams on the first try will get your career off to a great start. The right exam prep program will offer 24/7 online access for self-paced learning when it’s convenient for you. 

Are you ready to move up to a master electrician license in Mississippi? Contact RocketCert today to learn more about our exam prep program.