How to Hire an Electrician: License, Permit and Quote Checklist
Before you hire an electrician, check four things: an active license, a permit for the job, a written quote and proof of insurance. Here is how to hire an electrician safely, with the official license lookup for your state.
Check a license now
Pick your state to open its official license lookup in a new tab.
In states without a statewide license, check with your city or county.
Step 1: Confirm the license
Search the electrician or company on your state board’s lookup and check that the license is active and covers the type of work. Our state license lookup lists the board for every state. In states that license locally, ask for the city or county license.
Step 2: Ask about the permit
Most electrical work beyond small repairs needs a permit, and a permit means an inspector will check the work. A licensed electrician pulls the permit in their own name. Be cautious if someone asks you to pull it yourself.
Step 3: Get the quote in writing
Ask for a written quote that lists the scope, materials, permit and inspection, timeline and payment schedule. Compare at least two quotes for the same scope. Very large deposits are a warning sign.
Step 4: Check insurance
Ask for a certificate of liability insurance, and workers’ compensation if the company has employees, so you are not exposed if someone is hurt on your property.
Red flags
- No license number, or a number that does not match the name.
- Cash only, with no written quote.
- Pressure to skip the permit.
- Large payment before any work starts.
Safety first
Electrical faults can cause fires and shocks. If you smell burning, see scorch marks or a breaker keeps tripping, stop using the circuit and call a licensed electrician. This site does not give step by step instructions for live electrical work.
Electrical Contractors and Wiring is a publication, not a contractor, and we do not send electricians to homes. A directory of electricians by city is in the works; any paid featured listing in it will be labeled Sponsored.