Massachusetts electrical license lookup: how to check and get a license
Massachusetts electrical license lookup: who issues electrician licenses (Board of State Examiners of Electricians (Division of Occupational Licensure)), how to check one online, the license types, and 2,638 electrical contractors by county.
Do electricians need a license in Massachusetts?
| Who licenses them | Board of State Examiners of Electricians (Division of Occupational Licensure) |
|---|---|
| License types | Master Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, Systems Contractor, Systems Technician |
| When a license is required | License required for any electrical installation work for light, heat, power, fire warning or security systems, regardless of job size (M.G.L. c. 141, s. 1A) |
Systems contractors and technicians cover low-voltage fire alarm and security work. Security system installers also need a separate state security license, and electrical work needs a local wiring permit.
How do you look up an electrician's license in Massachusetts?
- Ask the electrician for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the Massachusetts electrical license lookup run by Board of State Examiners of Electricians (Division of Occupational Licensure).
- Search by license number first. A name search can return several people or companies with similar names.
- Check that the status is active or current, that the license type covers your job, and that the name matches the company on your contract.
- If something doesn't match, ask the electrician about it before you sign or pay a deposit, or contact Board of State Examiners of Electricians (Division of Occupational Licensure).
What electrical licenses does Massachusetts issue?
- Master Electrician
- Journeyman Electrician
- Systems Contractor
- Systems Technician
How do you get a electrical license in Massachusetts?
Licenses are issued by the Board of State Examiners of Electricians (Division of Occupational Licensure). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official Board of State Examiners of Electricians (Division of Occupational Licensure) source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many electricians are there in Massachusetts?
The Census Bureau counted 2,638 electrical contractors with employees in Massachusetts in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Middlesex County | 626 |
|---|---|
| Worcester County | 334 |
| Essex County | 293 |
| Norfolk County | 281 |
| Plymouth County | 278 |
| Bristol County | 229 |
| Barnstable County | 147 |
| Hampden County | 132 |
What do Massachusetts homes mean for electrical work?
The median home in Massachusetts was built in 1963, 37% of households rent and 57% of homes are single-family houses. 52% of homes heat with utility gas and 18% with electricity, and 23% with fuel oil.
How do you choose an electrician in Massachusetts?
- Check the license on the state or city license search, and ask whether the person doing the work is licensed or working under someone's license.
- Ask whether the job needs a permit and an inspection, and who files it. A licensed electrician files the permit.
- Ask for proof of insurance. Electrical mistakes show up later, so you want the company insured.
- For panel upgrades, ask whether the utility needs to be scheduled to cut and restore power, and who arranges it.
- Get a written estimate that lists the circuits, fixtures and materials.
Electricians in other states
Sources: Massachusetts licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.