How to Become a Electrician in the UK
Everything you need to know about starting a career as a electrician — qualifications, training routes, what you will actually earn, and the tools you need to get started.
Average Salary
Self-employed electricians often earn more, especially in London and the South East. Experienced specialists can exceed the upper range significantly.
Qualifications You Need
Level 3 Diploma in Electrotechnical Services (City & Guilds 2365 or EAL equivalent), 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), AM2 assessment for JIB registration.
Training Route
Typically 3-4 years via an apprenticeship with an approved training provider. You can also take a full-time college course followed by on-site experience. The apprenticeship route is preferred as you earn while you learn.
A Day in the Life
Arrive on site for 8am. Review job sheets and plans. Install wiring, sockets, consumer units, and lighting circuits in new builds or rewires. Test installations using calibrated instruments. Complete certificates and hand over to the client. Troubleshoot faults when called out. Some days involve domestic work, others commercial or industrial.
Essential Tools
Get Kitted Out
Amazon has starter kits and individual tools for electricians:
Recommended Books
- 📖
- 📖
- 📖PAT Testing Guide(Amazon)