NEC 2020

California Electrician Licensing

Every electrician license type California issues, with continuing-education hours, renewal fees, bond requirements and approved courses. Updated for 2026.

License types

32 hrs

Max CE / cycle

Required

Bond at some tier

CE providers

Informational only — not legal advice, and not an official government resource. Licensing rules change; always confirm against the official board source linked on this page before you renew, apply, or make a business decision. Trade Cert Hub is independent and not affiliated with any state licensing board.

California electricians licenses at a glance

C-10 Electrical Contractor

contractor

CE: None
Fee: $470
Bond: $25,000

View full requirements

General Electrician Certification

journeyman

CE: 32 hr / 3yr
Fee: $100
Bond: None

View full requirements

Getting started

How to become an electrician in California →

Moving states

Electrician license reciprocity →

Pay

Electrician salary in California →

CE courses in California

Electrician continuing-education providers offering courses for California license holders. Confirm a provider is on your board’s approved list before you buy.

Affiliate disclosure: the links below are affiliate links and may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.

360training

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View electrician courses

RedVector (Vector Solutions)

from $19

Broad catalog across all four trades

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View electrician courses

TradeSchool.com

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Multi-trade, Western states

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Need a California contractor bond?

Some electrician tiers in California require a license bond. Compare quotes in a few minutes.

Get a bond quote

Other trades licensed in California

Plumber in California HVAC Contractor in California General Contractor in California

California electrician licensing — FAQ

How many electrician license types does California issue?

California issues 2 electrician license types: C-10 Electrical Contractor, General Electrician Certification.

Does California require continuing education for electricians?

Yes — at least one electrician tier in California requires continuing education, up to 32 hours per renewal cycle. The exact requirement varies by license tier; see each license page.

Do California electrician licenses require a bond?

At least one electrician license tier in California requires a license bond. Check the specific license page for the bond amount, then estimate the premium with our bond cost estimator.

Which NEC edition does California enforce?

California currently enforces the 2020 NEC for electrician work.

Official source

California Contractors State License Board

Official board site

Data compiled 2026-05-23. Confirm current figures with the board.

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