Skilled Trade Careers by State

Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

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Every state has different rules for getting licensed in the skilled trades. Whether you want to become an electrician, HVAC technician, plumber, or welder, your path starts with understanding your state's requirements.

Below, you'll find our growing collection of state-specific guides. Each one includes:

  • Licensing requirements by trade
  • Salary and job outlook data
  • Approved training programs and apprenticeships
  • Step-by-step instructions for getting started


State Licensing Guides

State Start Your Guide
Arizona How to Start a Trade Career in Arizona
California How to Start a Trade Career in California
Colorado How to Start a Trade Career in Colorado
Connecticut How to Start a Trade Career in Connecticut
Florida How to Start a Trade Career in Florida
Georgia How to Start a Trade Career in Georgia
Illinois How to Start a Trade Career in Illinois
Indiana How to Start a Trade Career in Indiana
Maryland How to Start a Trade Career in Maryland
Michigan How to Start a Trade Career in Michigan
Nevada How to Start a Trade Career in Nevada
New Jersey How to Start a Trade Career in New Jersey
New York How to Start a Trade Career in New York
Oklahoma How to Start a Trade Career in Oklahoma
Pennsylvania How to Start a Trade Career in Pennsylvania
Tennessee How to Start a Trade Career in Tennessee
Texas How to Start a Trade Career in Texas
Virginia How to Start a Trade Career in Virginia

Want your state covered next? Send us a request and we'll prioritize it.


We currently offer detailed trade guides for:

Each trade guide includes licensing info by state, training options, and estimated costs to get started.


Why State Licensing Matters

Your state determines everything from the training hours required to the type of exam you'll need to pass. Starting with the right information can save you time, money, and frustration.

By understanding your local requirements, you can:

  • Avoid common application delays
  • Enroll in approved schools or apprenticeships
  • Choose the right license (journeyman, master, contractor)

Start Your Skilled Trade Career Today

Pick your state. Choose your trade. We'll show you exactly how to get licensed and start working.

See National Salary Data


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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.