How to become an electrician
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards getting your skills and experience accredited
- applying directly
College
A college course can give you some of the technical knowledge and practical skills you'll need to become an electrician. You'll still need practical experience in the workplace to become fully qualified. Doing a course may help you get an apprenticeship or trainee position.
Relevant courses include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Access to Building Services Engineering (Electrical)
- Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation
- T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You can do an installation and maintenance electrician advanced apprenticeship.
You can also train to become an electrician through an apprenticeship in the armed forces.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
If you've worked in the industry for 5 years or more and do not have a Level 3 qualification, you may be able to get your experience recognised through the Experienced Worker Assessment.
Direct Application
You may be able to move into electrical installation work if you've got experience and relevant qualifications from a related industry, for example building services or electrical engineering.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can find out more about professional and industry bodies for electrical work from Electrical Careers.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming an electrician from: