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If you’re looking for a career that offers stability, on-the-job training, and opportunities to advance without the need for an expensive four-year degree, it’s time to consider skilled trades like plumbing and electrical. With the modern reliance on electricity to power homes, vehicles, and endless devices, skilled electricians are needed everywhere. 

Before you can legally practice your trade in Montana, however, you must obtain a license from the State Electrical Board, under the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. What licenses are available, and what are the requirements to obtain your preferred license? 

Types of Electrical Licenses Available 

There are three different options for electrical licenses in Montana: residential, journeyman, and master. The type of license you obtain will impact the scope of work you’re permitted to do. It’s typical to start with one license and continue gaining knowledge and experience as you work toward another. 

Residential Electrical 

A residential electrician is permitted to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and equipment in residential, single-family homes/dwellings. To qualify for this license, you must show proof that you have completed one of the following: 

• An approved electrical apprenticeship 
• A training program offered by an approved union or trade association 
• 8,000 hours of practical experience (wiring, installing, and repairing electrical apparatus and equipment) 
• 20,000 hours of work in electrical maintenance, including at least 8,000 hours of practical experience 

You must also pass the Residential Electrical Exam, an open-book test consisting of 50 questions covering the National Electrical Code (NEC) and board rules and applicable laws under Title 37. You will have 150 minutes to complete the exam, and you must answer at least 38 questions (75%) correctly to pass. 

Journeyman Electrical 

A journeyman electrician performs many of the same job duties as a residential electrician but is permitted to work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The experience requirements for this license are the same as for a residential license. 

Once you’ve completed approved experience requirements, you must pass the Journeyman Electrical Exam. It covers the same topics as the Residential Electrical Exam but consists of 60 questions. You will have 180 minutes to complete this open-book test, and you must answer a minimum of 45 questions (75%) correctly to pass. 

Master Electrical 

A master electrician can perform the same job duties as residential and journeyman electricians, as well as design systems and supervise other electricians. To qualify for this license, you must show proof of one of the following: 

• An electrical engineering degree from an accredited college or university, plus at least 2,000 hours of electrical work experience 
• At least 8,000 hours of journeyman work experience 

You must also pass the Master Electrician Exam, an open-book test featuring 80 questions about the NEC and board rules and applicable laws under Title 37. You will have 240 minutes to complete the exam, and you must answer at least 60 questions (75%) correctly to pass. 

A Test Prep Program Designed for You 

The right test prep program for working professionals will allow for convenient, self-paced learning with 24/7 online access. If you’re ready to obtain your residential, journeyman, or master electrical license in Montana, contact RocketCert today to get started.