Aspiring electrical contractors are commonly trained through an apprenticeship program in electrical work which can be completed in four years Apprenticeship programs normally include a minimum of 144 hours in the classroom and at least 2000 hours of on-the-job training per year Common subjects that electricians study during their classroom education include blueprints math electrical theory work safety and the National Electrical Code All states have licensing requirements for electricians though requirements vary by state State licensure processes may include demonstrating knowledge of codes and regulations and passing an examination Some states may require electrical contractors to acquire a master electrician s license before they can work To become a master electrician electrical contractors generally fulfill experience requirements determined by the state and pass an exam.