Atif Khan 
Running a business is hard enough, but it can be daunting when you’re responsible for the safety and well-being of your employees, customers, and equipment. That’s why it’s so important to have a licensed electrician on staff, or at the very least, on call. The legal document helps ensure that any electrical work performed on your property meets state and local codes, keeping everyone safe while protecting your business from costly code violations.
In Tennessee, all electricians must be licensed by the Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCOI). This includes both journeymen and master electricians. The licensing process ensures that only qualified individuals perform electrical work, protecting consumers and businesses from subpar workmanship.
Steps to Getting a License
The first step to getting a Tennessee electrical license is to pass an examination administered by the DCOI. Applicants must pass both a business and law exam and a trade exam. The business and law exam covers contracts, estimating, and project management, while the trade exam focuses on electrical theory and code.
Exam prep courses are available to help candidates study for the exams. Once the exams have passed, candidates must apply for the DCOI and the appropriate fees. You will also need proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
After the paperwork has been filed, the electrician will be issued a license, which must be renewed every two years. Electricians are required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licenses.
Renewing Your License
When it comes time to renew your electrical license in Tennessee, there is no need to worry. The process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online. Log in to the Tennessee Board of Licensing website, enter your license number and personal information, and pay the renewal fee. You will then be able to print out a new license and continue working as an electrician in Tennessee.
Benefits of Getting a Tennessee Electrical License
There are many benefits to getting a Tennessee electrical license for businesses and individual electricians. The following are some of the benefits;
1. Undergoing Extensive Training
To become a licensed electrician, individuals must complete an apprenticeship or journeyman program, which can last up to four years. During this time, they receive on-the-job training and classroom instruction in electrical theory and code. This ensures that licensed electricians are well-versed in the latest electrical technologies and codes.
2. Adhering to State and Local Codes
All licensed electricians must adhere to state and local codes when performing electrical work. This helps protect businesses and consumers from subpar workmanship and ensures that all electrical work meets minimum safety standards.
3. Protecting Against Liability Claims
If an electrician working on your property causes damage, their license protects you from liability claims. This is because licensed electricians are required to carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
4. Maintaining a Professional Reputation
By only hiring licensed electricians, businesses can maintain a professional reputation. This is because the public associates licensing with quality and safety. You can be sure that any electrician you hire has the skills and training necessary to do the job right.
5. Staying Up-to-Date on the Latest Changes
Electricians are required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licenses. This ensures that they stay up-to-date on the latest electrical technologies and codes.
Conclusion
Getting a Tennessee electrical license is the best way to ensure you work under the required safety standards and regulations. With the right training and education, you can become a licensed electrician in Tennessee and work in various residential, commercial, and industrial settings. There are various electrician licenses available in Tennessee, so make sure you choose the one that best suits your needs and career goals.
