Best Electrician Schools in Rhode Island

If you want to become a licensed electrician in Rhode Island, you need proper training. The state requires classroom instruction and hands-on experience before you can get your license. Choosing the right school will set you up for success.

Here’s what you need to know about the best training programs in the state and how to get started.

Electrician License Requirements in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) oversees electrician licensing. To work legally as an electrician, you must hold a state-issued license.

Rhode Island law requires electricians to complete an approved apprenticeship and pass a licensing exam before performing electrical work unsupervised.
— Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training

Basic Steps to Get Licensed

1. Enroll in an approved electrician training program at a technical school or community college.
2. Start a registered apprenticeship with an employer or union sponsor.
3. Complete required classroom hours (usually 576 hours over 4 years for journeyperson licensing).
4. Complete required on-the-job training hours (typically 8,000 hours).
5. Apply for the journeyperson license exam with the Rhode Island DLT.
6. Pass the state exam to earn your license.

For the most current licensing details, visit the official Rhode Island DLT Electricians Licensing page.

Best Electrician Schools in Rhode Island

These schools provide classroom instruction and may connect you with apprenticeship opportunities. All are located within the state or have programs that meet Rhode Island licensing requirements.

1. New England Institute of Technology (NEIT)

• Location: East Greenwich, RI
• Program: Electrical Technology Associate in Science degree
• Length: About 18 months (day program) or 3 years (evening program)
• Highlights: Hands-on labs, focus on residential, commercial, and industrial wiring, prepares students for apprenticeship placement.
• Website: https://www.neit.edu

2. Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) – Workforce Development

• Location: Multiple campuses statewide
• Program: Electrical Apprenticeship Related Instruction
• Length: Structured to meet the 576 hours of required classroom time over 4 years for licensing
• Highlights: Evening and weekend classes for working apprentices, meets DLT standards, affordable tuition.
• Website: https://ccri.edu

3. Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Academy

• Location: Providence, RI
• Program: Pre-apprenticeship training
• Length: Varies by cohort (typically 8–10 weeks)
• Highlights: Introductory training in safety, basic electrical skills, and construction trades, helps prepare for union apprenticeship entry.
• Website: https://www.ribuilds.org

4. Electric Boat – Apprenticeship Program

• Location: North Kingstown, RI (Quonset Point)
• Program: Electrical and electronics apprenticeship
• Length: Multi-year, includes paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction
• Highlights: Work on naval ships and submarines, earn while you learn, program meets federal standards.
• Website: https://www.gdeb.com/careers/eb_apprentice/

Comparing Program Options

Union vs. Non-Union Apprenticeships

In Rhode Island, you can apply to either union or non-union programs.

• Union apprenticeships are usually offered through organizations like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 99. They combine classroom training with paid job placements for signatory contractors.
• Non-union apprenticeships may be provided by independent contractors, companies like Electric Boat, or trade associations.

Both paths meet the state’s licensing requirements. The main difference is in pay structure, benefits, and job placement opportunities.

Tips for Choosing the Right Electrician School

• Check state approval. The program should meet Rhode Island DLT standards for related technical instruction.
• Look at scheduling. Evening classes help if you’re working full-time.
• Ask about placement help. A school with strong ties to local contractors can help you land an apprenticeship faster.
• Tour the labs. See the equipment and training spaces before enrolling.
• Consider your long-term plan. Some programs lead into degrees; others focus only on meeting licensing requirements.

Safety and Code Training

Every electrician in Rhode Island must know the National Electrical Code (NEC) and state amendments. Training programs include code instruction, OSHA safety requirements, and hands-on practice.

OSHA training is a must for electrical workers. Many schools include the OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 training cards as part of their course.

What to Do Next

If you’re serious about becoming an electrician in Rhode Island:

1. Review the list of schools above.
2. Contact at least two programs to compare class times, costs, and start dates.
3. Verify each program’s approval with the Rhode Island DLT.
4. Apply early—especially for apprenticeship programs with limited spots.

Starting with the right school sets you on the path to completing your apprenticeship and earning your license.

Sources

[1] Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training – Electrician Licensing: https://dlt.ri.gov/professional-licensing-boards/electricians
[2] U.S. Department of Labor – Apprenticeship Program Overview: https://www.dol.gov/apprenticeship
[3] Occupational Safety and Health Administration – Electrical Safety: https://www.osha.gov/electrical

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