Pillar guide
Hiring an Electrician & Licensing
The right electrician is licensed for the work, insured, pulls the permit, and explains the job clearly. This guide covers how to hire, what each license level means, how to verify a license, how permits work, and how to compare quotes fairly.
Updated 2026-10-15
The non-negotiables
Before you sign anything:
- An active license that covers the work in your state or city
- Current general liability and workers' compensation insurance
- A permit pulled in the contractor's name, not yours
- A written scope, price, payment schedule, and timeline
- A clear warranty on workmanship
Using WireCircuitPro listings
Listings marked Verified have had a license number matched to a public state record. Other listings come from public business data and haven't been verified by us — use them to build a shortlist, then confirm licensing and insurance directly before hiring.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a handyman allowed to do electrical work?
In most states, electrical work beyond replacing like-for-like devices requires a licensed electrician. Rules vary; when in doubt, hire licensed.
Should I pay a deposit?
Modest deposits for materials are normal. Be cautious of requests for large upfront payments, cash-only terms, or pressure to skip permits.
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three for larger projects. For small repairs, one reputable licensed electrician is usually fine.
Related topics
This guide is general information, not engineering or legal advice. Electrical codes are adopted and amended locally — consult a licensed electrician and your local building department for your project.