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Are you interested in a career as a journeyman electrician or electrical contractor in South Dakota? The first step involves obtaining job experience and getting licensed.  

The South Dakota Electrical Commission oversees the licensing process to ensure anyone performing electrical work meets the state’s safety and professionalism standards. Here’s how you can get licensed and start working.  

Why Are There Two Different Electrical Licenses? 

In South Dakota, you’ll start your career as an apprentice electrician. This entry-level position allows you to work under the supervision of a licensed electrical contractor (not a journeyman) to gain practical experience. You’ll need to accumulate four years (8,000 hours) as an apprentice before you are eligible for licensure in South Dakota. 

Once you meet those requirements, you can take your career to the next level by obtaining a state license. There are TWO ELECTRICAL LICENSES AVAILABLE.  

Journeyman Electrician License 

A journeyman electrician can perform repairs and electrical installations without direct supervision. However, they cannot plan or lay out electrical wiring and equipment. Journeymen are also prohibited from taking on apprentices. Apprentice electricians can only work under the supervision of an electrical contractor.  

Electrical Contractor License  

Also known as a master electrician, an electrical contractor is authorized to plan and supervise electrical work. They are also allowed to manage an electrical contracting business. Becoming an electrical contractor requires additional experience beyond the journeymen level.  

How to Obtain Your Journeyman License 

The biggest hurdle to becoming a licensed journeyman electrician is the experience requirement. You’ll need to accumulate 8,000 hours of practical electrical work experience under the supervision of a licensed electrician.  

Additionally, you’ll need to submit a completed application to the South Dakota Electrical Commission (SDEC). The application must include proof of your work experience and any relevant educational credits. Once the SDEC has verified your eligibility, they will send exam details. After you pass the exam, you will be issued your license.  

How to Obtain Your Electrical Contractor License  

The state of South Dakota wants to make sure electrical contractors have extensive knowledge and experience. That’s why they require you to work for a journeyman for at least two years (with 4,000 hours of work experience under a contractor). At least 2,000 hours of your work experience must involve commercial electrical projects.  

Next, you’ll need to provide the South Dakota Electrical Commission with a complete and signed application. As with the journeyman application, this electrical contractor application must include proof of your work experience.  

The SDEC will process your application and provide details about your exam date and location. The comprehensive exam evaluates your knowledge of electrical systems and business practices. After you successfully pass the exam, you will receive your license.  

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