Service overview
You need this license to do electrical work in Philadelphia. This includes low-voltage wiring.
Who
Individuals who perform electrical work can apply for this license.
Requirements
Other licenses and registrations
Insurance
You must provide a Certificate of Insurance that includes these minimum amounts:
- General Liability: $500,000 per occurrence
- Automobile Liability Insurance: $300,000
- Worker’s Compensation:
- $100,000 each accident
- $100,000 each employee
- $500,000 policy limit
Experience
To qualify, you must have a minimum of four years employment doing electrical work for a company licensed through a local or state jurisdiction.
Completion of two years of education in the electrical field is equal to one year practical experience. Education can substitute for up to two years of practical experience.
Proof of experience must be submitted in the form of one or more of the following:
- Tax records reflecting employment by a licensed electrical contractor
- Proof of licensure through a local or state jurisdiction, subject to approval by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I)
Testing and certification
You must have proof of successful completion of the Philadelphia Electrical Contractor Examination. This exam is administered by the International Code Council.
The exam must reference the current version of the Philadelphia Code and associated standards or your application must be submitted within 12 months of successful completion of the exam.
Continuing education credits
You must provide proof of completion for at least eight hours of coursework in the current or later edition of NFPA 70. The exam provider must be approved by the PA Department of Labor and Industry.
You must complete these courses within the 12 month period preceding application.
Proof of employment
If you are not self-employed, submit a statement of current or prospective employment. This statement must be on company letterhead and signed by the employer.
Photo identification
2 in. x 2 in., color
Tax compliance
You must be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes.
Electric vehicle infrastructure specialty
Electrical contractors who install, upgrade, or repair electric vehicle (EV) chargers must have a valid certification from the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP).
Contractors can add this certification to their license at any time through an amendment or submit proof when renewing their license.
Beginning July 1, 2026, the contractor listed on any permit application that includes an electric vehicle charger must have a valid Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) certification on file with their electrical contractor license.
Where and when
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Cost
A non-refundable application fee of $60 is applied to the license fee. The balance of the license fee is due once your application is approved.
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How
You can apply for this license online using eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
Online
Applications are reviewed within five business days.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
In person
Applications are reviewed within five business days.
If the application isn’t approved, you will receive an email stating what is missing or required.
Renewal requirements
This license must be renewed annually. You can renew online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.
To renew your license, you must:
- Be current on all City of Philadelphia taxes and fines.
- Have proof of at least eight hours of coursework in NFPA 70, earned during the previous license period.
- Have proof of active insurance policy.