Virginia renewal guide
Master Electrician License (Tradesman)
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 36 months
Renewal fee
$160.00
Late penalty
$50.00
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Continuing education
3 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 3 required hours before you start the renewal.
- 2
File with the board
File through Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and pay the $160.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 3
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
If you miss the deadline, the late penalty is $50.00, with a 30-day grace period.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Virginia Master Electrician License (Tradesman)
The Master Electrician license is issued under DPOR's Tradesmen Program. This is an individual tradesperson license, separate from the contractor (business) license.
License vs. Contractor License
- Tradesman License: Individual credential proving competency in the trade
- Contractor License: Business license (Class A, B, or C) required to contract for work
- Most electrical contractors need BOTH a tradesman license AND a contractor license
Requirements
- Examination: Must pass the Master Electrician exam
- Experience: Documented experience in the electrical trade
- Application Fee: $150
Renewal Information
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years
- Renewal Fee: $160
- Continuing Education: 3 hours covering the National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Expiration: License expires 3 years from the last day of the month issued
- Late Renewal Surcharge: $50 (reinstatement fee is $210 total if 30+ days late)
Scope
Master Electricians can:
- Perform all types of electrical work
- Supervise journeyman and apprentice electricians
- Serve as the qualifying individual for a contractor license
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with DPOR.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Examination Results
- Experience Documentation
Source notes
Virginia DPOR - Tradesmen Program . Verified March 2026 via 18VAC50-30-90/120.
Rules move. Check Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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Next steps
Turn it into a handoff.
Once the rule is clear, these tools help you hand it off cleanly or turn it into a cost plan.
Printable checklist
Virginia checklist
Use the checklist when you need the board link, required documents, and renewal notes in one handoff.
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Keep Master Electrician License (Tradesman) dates, proof, and official links with the rest of your license work.