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If you want to become an electrician in Florida, the first step is finding the right training program. Most electricians start at a trade school or community college, then complete an apprenticeship. Choosing a solid program will give you the technical skills, safety training, and industry tools you need to get hired.
In this guide, you’ll see the best electrician schools in Florida, what they offer, and what to look for before you enroll.
Florida Electrician Licensing Basics
Before you choose a school, it helps to understand Florida’s licensing requirements.
In Florida, electrical contractors are licensed through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). You’ll need formal training plus work experience to qualify for a license.
Common electrician roles in Florida include:
- Registered Electrical Contractor – Licensed to work in specific local jurisdictions.
- Certified Electrical Contractor – Licensed to work statewide.
- Journeyman Electrician – Generally licensed at the county or city level.
Each license has education and on-the-job experience requirements, so starting with an approved training program will set you on the right track.
How to Choose an Electrician School in Florida
Look for these factors when comparing programs:
- Accreditation – Make sure the school is accredited and recognized by Florida licensing authorities.
- Hands-On Training – Electrical work is physical and practical—classroom theory is only half the job.
- Course Length & Schedule – Programs range from 6 months to 2 years.
- Job Placement Help – Some schools connect you directly to apprenticeships.
- Safety Certifications – OSHA training or NCCER certification can give you an advantage.
Best Electrician Schools in Florida
Here are some highly rated and well-known electrician programs in the state.
1. Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)
- Type: Public Community College
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship and Electrician Career Certificate
- Highlights: Combines classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. NCCER-certified curriculum. Strong local employer connections.
- Website: https://www.fscj.edu/
2. Miami Dade College – School of Engineering and Technology
- Type: Public College
- Program: Electrical Apprenticeship
- Highlights: Offers a comprehensive four-year registered apprenticeship program with classroom and lab work. Prepares students for journeyman exams.
- Website: https://www.mdc.edu/
3. Erwin Technical College (Tampa)
- Type: Public Technical College
- Program: Electricity Career Certificate
- Highlights: 1,200-hour program covering residential, commercial, and industrial wiring. Includes OSHA safety training.
- Website: https://erwin.edu/
4. Atlantic Technical College (Coconut Creek)
- Type: Public Technical College
- Program: Electricity Program
- Highlights: 1,200-hour course with lab simulations and hands-on wiring projects. Evening schedules available for working students.
- Website: https://www.atlantictechnicalcollege.edu/
5. Orange Technical College – Mid Florida Campus
- Type: Public Technical College
- Program: Electrical Program
- Highlights: Offers training in code requirements, blueprint reading, and installation techniques. NCCER certification included.
- Website: https://www.orangetechcollege.net/
6. Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Florida East Coast
- Type: Industry Association Training
- Program: Apprenticeship Program
- Highlights: Four-year program recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. Students work full-time with pay while completing coursework.
- Website: https://www.iecfloridaeastcoast.org/
Electrician Training Program Comparison
School / Program | Length | Certification | Apprenticeship Option |
Florida State College at Jacksonville | 4 years | NCCER | Yes |
Miami Dade College | 4 years | State-ready | Yes |
Erwin Technical College | 1,200 hours | OSHA/NCCER | No |
Atlantic Technical College | 1,200 hours | NCCER | No |
Orange Technical College | 1,200 hours | NCCER | No |
IEC Florida East Coast | 4 years | NCCER/DOL | Yes |
Steps to Start Your Electrician Career in Florida
- Choose a school from the list above or another accredited program.
- Complete your coursework in electrical theory, safety, and wiring.
- Get hands-on experience through labs or apprenticeships.
- Register for the correct license in your city or county.
- Log your work experience – usually 4 years for statewide certification.
- Pass the required exams for your license type.
Safety Training is Essential
Electrical work can be dangerous if safety rules are ignored. OSHA certification and following the National Electrical Code (NEC) are essential skills.
Schools that include OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 training can give you a head start in job readiness.
Final Advice
Start your electrician career by enrolling in a Florida program that fits your schedule and career goals. Pick a school with hands-on training and connections to local employers. If possible, enter a registered apprenticeship so you can earn while you learn.
Once you finish training and pass your exams, you’ll have a career with steady demand and room for growth. The key is taking the first step now—look at the programs above, contact a school directly, and find out how soon you can start.
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