Best Electrician Schools in Illinois

If you want to become an electrician in Illinois, the first step is finding the right school or apprenticeship program. This choice will shape your skills, confidence, and future job prospects. The good news is Illinois has strong training options — from trade schools to union apprenticeships.

In this guide, we’ll look at the best electrician schools in Illinois and outline the steps you need to get licensed.

How to Become an Electrician in Illinois

Illinois does not have a single statewide electrician license. Instead, most licenses are issued at the local or municipal level. That means the city where you plan to work will set the licensing rules.

However, the basic process is similar almost everywhere:

1. Complete an approved training program or apprenticeship
   Most employers prefer candidates who have hands-on training plus classroom instruction.

2. Work as an electrical apprentice
   You’ll log a certain number of supervised work hours, often 8,000+ hours across several years ¹.

3. Pass a local or national licensing exam
   Your city may use tests from the International Code Council (ICC) or a similar organization.

4. Maintain your license
   You may need ongoing education to stay compliant with code changes.

Note: Always contact your local building department to confirm licensing requirements before enrolling in a program.

Types of Electrician Training Programs

In Illinois, you can train through:

• Union Apprenticeships — Often run by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and local Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees (JATCs).
• Non-Union Apprenticeships — Offered by trade associations like the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC).
• Technical Colleges & Trade Schools — Offer shorter diploma and degree programs with classroom and lab training.
• Community Colleges — Often combine theory with hands-on practice and can feed into apprenticeship programs.

Best Electrician Schools in Illinois

Here is a list of reputable electrician schools and training centers in Illinois. Always verify acceptance requirements before applying.

1. IBEW–NECA Technical Institute (IN-Tech) – Alsip, IL

• Focus: Union apprenticeship training for inside wiremen
• Format: Paid, multi-year apprenticeship with classroom education
• Entry: Competitive application process requiring aptitude tests
  Website: https://www.intechlearning.org/

2. Lincoln Land Community College – Springfield, IL

• Program: Electrical Distribution Lineman and Construction Electrician programs
• Includes safety training, code instruction, and electrical theory
• Pathways to apprenticeship or entry-level work
  Website: https://www.llcc.edu/

3. Coyne College – Chicago, IL

• Program: Electrical Construction and Maintenance diploma
• Offers day and evening schedules
• Strong industry connections for placement assistance
  Website: https://www.coynecollege.edu/

4. Prairie State College – Chicago Heights, IL

• Program: Electrical Technician A.A.S. degree and certificates
• Mix of electrical fundamentals, wiring, and safety compliance
• Partnerships with local employers
  Website: https://prairiestate.edu/

5. IEC of Illinois – Alsip, IL

• Non-union apprenticeship program
• Classroom instruction twice a week plus full-time field work
• Nationally recognized curricula from the Independent Electrical Contractors
  Website: https://www.iecil.org/

Comparing Training Lengths

Choosing the Right Program

When comparing Illinois electrician schools, consider:

• Location — Some programs require you to live within a certain distance.
• Placement Rates — Ask how many graduates get jobs or apprenticeships.
• Licensing Preparation — The curriculum should cover material for local licensing exams.
• Schedule — Balance class time with any work or family obligations.
• Hands-On Hours — Employers want grads who have worked with real equipment.

Tip: If your goal is to join a union, applying directly to an IBEW apprenticeship early may be your best move. Many applicants get on a waiting list.

Illinois Licensing Reminders

Because there is no single statewide license, each municipality may require different documentation before allowing you to work independently.

Common requirements include:

• Proof of completed training or apprenticeship
• Proof of work experience under a licensed electrician
• Passing a written exam
• Proof of liability insurance

Always check your city or county building department website for exact details. For Chicago’s licensing info, visit https://www.chicago.gov/.

Safety and Code Compliance

Electricians must follow National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines, along with Illinois amendments that may apply locally.

Safety rule from OSHA: Always verify the circuit is de-energized before starting work to avoid electrical shock hazards ².

Staying current with NEC updates is a key part of your professional development.

Final Steps

If you’re serious about becoming an electrician in Illinois, here’s what to do next:

1. Pick your target city or county and learn its licensing rules.
2. Compare at least three training programs or apprenticeships nearby.
3. Apply early — some programs only open applications once a year.
4. Start gathering documents like transcripts and proof of age.
5. Prepare for any entrance tests.

Bottom line: The best electrician school for you will match your career goals, preparation needs, and location. Take the time to research, visit campuses, and talk with current students. Choosing the right training path now will make it easier to succeed when you step onto a job site.

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• Best Trade Schools in Illinois (2025)