Master Electrician's License

MASTER ELECTRICIAN

A Master Electrician's License is required when an electrical contractor wishes to obtain a permit to perform electrical work in Montgomery County.

There are three types of Master Electricians' Licenses.  Depending on the extent of work to be performed by the electrical contractor, one of the following licenses will be required:

Limited

The license is restricted to specific types of electrical work (e.g., heat/air conditioning, signs, or telephones) or specific locations (e.g., apartment buildings).

Unlimited

The licensee may perform any type of electrical work throughout the County

Inactive

The licensee meets all requirements for a Master Electrician's License, but has no business affiliation. This class of master may not obtain permits, but may work as a Journeyman Electrician.

Is there a Law that Applies?

Montgomery County Code , Search Chapter 17

Annotated Code of the State of Maryland.

What is the Application Process?

Master Electrician's Licenses may be obtained by examination or by reciprocity (by using a qualifying license from the State of Maryland or another jurisdiction in Maryland). These methods have different requirements. (See the application and instructions for complete information). An application, applicable fee, and a current front-faced photo are required to apply for a license. The photo will be used to produce a photo ID card.

What is the Purpose of a Photo ID?

In Montgomery County, licensed electricians are required to carry their photo ID's on job sites. Electricians without ID's may be sent away from job sites or fined by County inspectors.

What is Required to take the Master Electrician's Examination?

The Board of Electrical Examiners reviews the application and supporting documents. Applicants must have a minimum of eight (8) years of experience under the supervision of a Master Electrician,.

Approved applicants will receive a letter specifying the time, date and place of their examination. Disapproved applicants will receive a letter specifying the reason(s) for disapproval. Disapproved applicants may appeal directly to the Board of Electrical Examiners. Requests should be submitted in writing to the Department of Permitting Services.

What is the Process for Applicants Approved for Licensure?

Applicants receive a letter specifying the exam score and requesting the license fee of $280.00. At this point the applicant must either:

• Provide the applicable business affiliation Information, or
• Request an Inactive Master's license.

After receipt of the fee and required information, the license, photo ID, and fee receipt are mailed to the applicant, usually within two weeks. An additional 10% Automation Enhancement Fee is charged on the cost(s) listed above.

What is the Process for Applicants Disapproved for Licensure?

Applicants receive a letter specifying the test scores, along with an application for re-examination. The fee for re-examination is $31.00. Applicants may retest at the next available test date.

An additional 10% Automation Enhancement Fee is charged on the cost(s) listed above.

How is the License Renewed?

Renewal applications are usually mailed to the licensee's last known address six to eight weeks prior to expiration of the license. Written change-of-address notifications are critical to the renewal process.

What are the Consequences of Failure to Renew a License?

Renewal applications received more than ten (10) business days after the expiration date of the license are subject to a late renewal fee of $59.00. Renewal applications received more than six (6) months beyond the expiration date will not be accepted. An additional 10% Automation Enhancement Fee is charged on the cost(s) listed above.