Best Electrician Schools in Hawaii

If you want to work as an electrician in Hawaii, the first step is getting the right training.
In this trade, a solid education means safer work, more opportunities, and a faster path to getting licensed.

In Hawaii, you must be licensed to work as a journey worker, maintenance electrician, industrial electrician, or supervising electrician.
That means hands-on training and classroom instruction are non‑negotiable.

Here’s what you need to know about the best electrician schools in Hawaii and how to start your career.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Hawaii

Hawaii’s Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs – Professional & Vocational Licensing Division handles electrician licensing for the state.

Basic steps to get licensed:

1. Choose a training path – trade school, apprenticeship, or military experience.
2. Log required work hours – most licenses require several years of supervised on‑the‑job work.
3. Complete classroom education – hours depend on the license class.
4. Apply for your license – submit proof of hours, education, and required forms.
5. Pass the licensing exam – tests cover the National Electrical Code, safety, and local rules.
6. Renew your license – Hawaii requires periodic renewal to stay active.

State Rule:
According to the Hawaii Administrative Rules, an applicant must meet both work experience and schooling requirements before applying for the electrician exam. ¹

Best Electrician Schools in Hawaii

The best program for you depends on your location, experience level, and career goals.
Below are some of the top options in the state.

Honolulu Community College (HCC)

• Location: Honolulu, HI
• Program: Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology (EIMT)
• Length: Typically 2 years for Associate of Applied Science
• Highlights:
  • Strong focus on residential, commercial, and industrial wiring.
  • National Electrical Code training included.
  • Pathways to apprenticeships with local unions.
• Website: https://honolulu.hawaii.edu

Hawaiʻi Community College

• Location: Hilo, HI
• Program: Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology
• Length: Certificate and Associate degree options
• Highlights:
  • Hands‑on lab work simulating real job conditions.
  • Emphasis on electrical theory and blueprint reading.
  • Close ties with Hawaii Island employers.
• Website: https://hawaii.hawaii.edu

University of Hawaiʻi Maui College

• Location: Kahului, HI
• Program: Applied Business and Information Technology with Electrical coursework & apprenticeship pathways
• Length: Varies by program and student pace
• Highlights:
  • Flexible scheduling for working students.
  • Placement assistance with Maui‑based electrical contractors.
• Website: https://maui.hawaii.edu

Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committees (JATC)

• Location: Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island
• Program: State‑registered electrical apprenticeship
• Length: Usually 4–5 years
• Highlights:
  • Earn while you learn with paid job placement.
  • Combines on‑the‑job training with related classroom instruction.
  • Ideal for those seeking a union career path.
• Website: Search "Hawaii IBEW JATC" for the local site.

Comparing Program Options

Hawaii Electrician License Classes

The state offers several electrician license types. Common ones include:

• Journey Worker Electrician (EJ) – General electrical work under code.
• Maintenance Electrician (EM) – Focus on upkeep and repair work.
• Journey Worker Industrial Electrician (EJI) – Specializes in industrial systems.
• Supervising Electrician (ES) – Requires more hours and allows you to run jobs and supervise.

Education Requirements by License Type

Example (check latest Hawaii Administrative Rules for updates):

Always verify current requirements with the Hawaii DCCA Licensing Division before applying.

Why Choosing the Right School Matters

The right training program can:

• Help you meet license requirements faster.
• Teach safety practices that protect you on the job.
• Connect you with employers and apprenticeships.
• Prepare you to pass the licensing exam on your first try.

Next Steps

1. Decide which license type matches your career goal.
2. Review the education and experience requirements on the Hawaii DCCA licensing page.
3. Contact at least two schools or apprenticeship programs from the list above.
4. Compare start dates, tuition, and job placement rates.
5. Apply and start logging both classroom hours and work experience.

The sooner you start training, the sooner you can work toward your license and begin your career as an electrician in Hawaii.

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• Best Trade Schools in Hawaii (2025)