Best Electrician Schools in Texas

If you want to become an electrician in Texas, your first step is finding the right training.
The right school will prepare you for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) requirements and give you the skills employers expect on job sites.

Getting your training right from the start matters. Texas has clear rules for who can work as an electrician. Without the right schooling and supervised hours, you can’t legally work in the trade.

How Electrician Licensing Works in Texas

In Texas, the TDLR issues electrician licenses. You must meet specific education and work experience requirements before you can apply.

The main license types are:

• Apprentice Electrician – Entry-level; requires working under a licensed electrician.
• Journeyman Electrician – Requires on-the-job training and passing an exam.
• Master Electrician – Advanced license with more experience and testing.
• Electrical Contractor – Allows you to run your own business.

TDLR Rule: “All electrical work in Texas must be performed by licensed electricians or registered apprentices under the supervision of a licensed electrician.” — Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Steps to Get Licensed as an Electrician in Texas

1. Register as an Apprentice with the TDLR.
2. Enroll in a State-Approved Trade School or Apprenticeship Program.
3. Complete Required On-the-Job Hours (as recorded by your supervising electrician).
4. Pass the Journeyman Exam once you meet the hours and training requirements.
5. Upgrade to Master or Contractor License if desired.

Best Electrician Trade Schools in Texas

Here are some of the top schools and programs you can consider.
These schools offer classroom instruction along with hands-on training so you can meet state requirements.

1. Texas State Technical College (TSTC) – Waco, Harlingen, Sweetwater, Abilene, and Fort Bend

TSTC runs an electrical construction program that covers wiring, circuitry, safety, and the National Electrical Code.
Programs range from certificates to associate degrees. TSTC partners with industry employers, which can help with job placement.

Website: www.tstc.edu

2. Lone Star College – Houston Area

Lone Star’s Electrical Technology program provides theory and practical skills training.
They also offer evening classes for working students. Courses align with Texas journeyman requirements.

Website: www.lonestar.edu

3. South Texas College – McAllen

South Texas College offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Electrician Technology.
The curriculum includes electrical theory, blueprint reading, and NEC training.

Website: www.southtexascollege.edu

4. Austin Community College – Austin

ACC offers multiple pathways, including a Level 1 Certificate for quick entry into the workforce.
Strong ties with local contractors make it easier to get placement as an apprentice.

Website: www.austincc.edu

5. IEC Texas Gulf Coast and IEC Central Texas

The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) programs are recognized throughout the state.
IEC’s apprenticeship training is TDLR-approved and delivers both classroom and field experience.

Website: www.ieci.org

Tips for Choosing an Electrician School in Texas

When comparing programs, look for:

• TDLR Approval for courses and apprenticeships.
• Hands-on Labs and modern training equipment.
• Flexible Scheduling if you plan to work while in school.
• Job Placement Assistance with local electrical contractors.
• Instructor Experience from licensed professionals.

Questions to Ask Before You Enroll

• Is your program recognized by the TDLR for apprentice training hours?
• How do you track and report on-the-job hours?
• What is your pass rate for the Texas Journeyman exam?
• Do you have partnerships with union or non-union contractors?
• Can I take classes in the evenings or on weekends?

How Long Does Electrician School Take in Texas?

It depends on your goal:

Starting with a certificate can help you get entry-level work faster, while you continue to log hours toward the Journeyman license.

Apprenticeships vs. Trade Schools

Some electricians start with an apprenticeship through a contractor or the IEC.
Others begin in a classroom and move to fieldwork. There’s no single “right” path, but your choice will affect how you balance income and training hours.

Apprenticeships:

• Earn while you learn
• Longer training period before full licensing
• Employer-sponsored

Trade Schools:

• Faster classroom completion
• May require finding your own apprenticeship for hours
• More flexible for career changers

Safety and Compliance

Electrical work in Texas must follow the NEC and state licensing laws.
Working without a license or outside your scope can result in fines or being barred from getting licensed later.

Safety Note: Always wear appropriate PPE when training or on the job. The OSHA 10 or 30-hour Construction Safety courses are valuable for electricians. — OSHA

Next Steps

Here’s what you should do now:

1. Register as an Apprentice with the TDLR.
2. Research Approved Schools from the list above.
3. Visit Campuses or speak to admissions to compare options.
4. Apply and Enroll in your chosen training path.
5. Track Your Training Hours carefully to prepare for the journeyman application.

Getting started is the hardest part, but once you have your apprenticeship and a good school, you are on the path to becoming a licensed electrician in Texas.

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