New Jersey Electrical Contractor License

Both a personal contractor license and a business permit are required under N.J.A.C. 13:31 — the New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors issues and renews both on a three-year cycle. Plan ahead: the Board requires exam passage, five years of documented experience, and insurance certificates before your initial license is issued.

Who can apply

You need five years of electrical work immediately before applying: a four-year DOL-accredited apprenticeship plus at least one year as a journeyman electrician (N.J.A.C. 13:31-2.3(b)). After that, you pass the Board's licensing examination.

Fees

The triennial license renewal is $225 (N.J.A.C. 13:31-1.6). Business permit fees are prorated by year within the three-year cycle: $150 in year one, $100 in year two. Both the license and the business permit renew together on the triennial schedule. A $50 late renewal penalty applies per N.J.A.C. 13:31-1.6.

Continuing education

34 credit hours are required every three years for renewal (N.J.A.C. 13:31-1.7(b)). Track your hours across the full triennial period — don't wait until the renewal deadline.

Insurance and bond

Every business permit holder must carry general liability insurance at a minimum of $300,000 per N.J.S.A. 45:5A-19 and file a certificate with the Board. A $1,000 surety bond is also required with the business permit application.

Scope of work

Licensed NJ electrical contractors may install, alter, repair, and maintain electrical wiring, equipment, and systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

*Sources: N.J.A.C. 13:31-1.6 (50 N.J.R. 1966(a), eff. Sept. 2018); N.J.A.C. 13:31-1.7(b) (55 N.J.R. 391(b), eff. Mar. 2023); N.J.A.C. 13:31-2.3(b) (54 N.J.R. 1914(b), eff. Oct. 2022); N.J.S.A. 45:5A-19; Board business permit form (triennial Apr 2024–Mar 2027). Verified May 2026.*