How long does it take to train as an electrician in the UK?

If you’re considering a career as an electrician, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how long it takes to become qualified. The answer depends on the training route you choose, as the timelines and requirements vary for the different pathways.

Whether you’re starting from scratch, changing careers or already have experience in the industry, there’s a suitable route for you.

How do you become an electrician?

There are several different pathways to becoming an electrician, making it suitable for different ages, learning styles and levels of experience. Each one offers unique advantages, and the choice depends on your individual circumstances, prior experience and career goals. For example, the full-time education pathway requires you to hold a certain number of GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, while the experienced worker route is suitable for those with industry experience who lack certain qualifications.

Our guide on how to become an electrician offers lots of useful information and insights about what’s required for each pathway. You might also want to take a look at our list of essential skills for electricians to see what technical and soft skills you’ll need to succeed.

How long does it take to train as an electrician?

It is possible to train as an electrician in as little as 12-18 months as an adult learner taking the necessary dedicated electrician courses.

The actual length of time it takes to train as an electrician depends on various factors, including the learning route you take, the qualifications you currently hold, the level of electrical experience you have, and whether you’re learning full time or part time.

We’ve put together an overview of the four main routes, focusing on how long it typically takes to train as an electrician by following these pathways.

Full-time education route

Geared towards individuals under 19, this classroom-based route provides technical knowledge and practical skills through college or training centre programs.

Learners tend to begin with Level 2 and 3 technical qualifications, after which they need to gain practical workplace experience to become fully qualified electricians. To do this, they can either choose an apprenticeship or a Level 3 NVQ course.

While the duration of these courses can vary, it typically takes four years to attain qualified electrician status through the full-time education pathway.

Apprenticeship route

This traditional route combines on-the-job training with classroom learning. Apprentices typically attend college one day a week and work four days a week, where they earn a wage while gaining practical experience.

While they’re often targeted towards younger people just starting out on their careers, apprenticeships are also suitable for older people and those looking to retrain.

The typical duration of an electrical apprenticeship is 4 years, although this depends on the level and type of apprenticeship chosen.

Adult learner route

This pathway is tailored for individuals aged 18+ seeking a career change, or those unable to commit to an apprenticeship.

It involves completing classroom-based foundational courses. such as the Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas in Electrical Installation to, equip learners with essential knowledge. After this, the NVQ Level 3 course along with the AM2 assessment is necessary to become fully qualified. As well as classroom-based learning, on-the-job experience and work-based training are needed to become a fully qualified electrician.

With Electrician Courses 4U, the time taken to complete the adult learner route from start to finish is approximately 12-18 months.

Experienced worker route

Designed for those with substantial experience in the electrical industry but lacking a formal apprenticeship or Level 3 qualifications, this route involves an assessment process to recognise occupational competence.

Depending on the course they choose, learners must have at least 3 years’ experience working in the electrical industry, along with a Level 2 Electrical Technical qualification.

The time required for full qualification as an electrician varies depending on the individual’s prior experience and the specific qualifications they need to obtain.

Are you looking to train as an electrician?

Now you know how long it takes to train as an electrician in the UK, take a look at our range of electrical courses to see which suits your needs. If you’re not sure, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you on the options available.