How To Become A Qualified Electrician in the UK

How to become a qualified electrician in the UK

Road-map to qualification: four proven routes into the UK electrical trade

The UK still faces a chronic shortage of skilled sparkies, and that gap shows in project schedules and pay packets. Whether you are 16, 36 or 56, there is a recognised pathway that can turn your interest in electrics into a Gold-Card career. Below we unpack the four routes endorsed by the Electrical Skills Partnership (TESP) — and show how Elec Training can support each one. 

1 | Apprenticeship: earn while you learn 

A funded apprenticeship remains the gold standard. You work four days on site and spend one day at our centre; wages land in your bank from week one. 

  • Installation & Maintenance Electrician (C&G 5357) – 4 years 
  • Domestic Electrician (C&G 5393) – 3 years 

Off-the-job theory, on-the-job evidence, and a final AM2 assessment combine to unlock the ECS Gold Card. If you live in the West Midlands, our weekday electrician courses Birmingham cohort means minimal travel. 

2 | Diploma ➜ NVQ fast track 

Ideal for adult learners who can self-fund study blocks before jumping onto site. 

  1. Level 2 Diploma (C&G 2365-02) 

  2. Level 3 Diploma (C&G 2365-03) 

  3. Paid employment in the trade 

  4. NVQ Level 3 portfolio + AM2 

Motivated candidates often wrap Levels 2 & 3 into one fast-track electrician course, cutting classroom time to under a year. 

3 | Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) 

Five years on the tools but no formal Level 3? The EWA maps your real-world skills to the same standards as an apprenticeship. 

  • Site-based portfolio verified by an assessor 
  • Wiring-Regs currency and inspection/testing ticket required 
  • Finished by an AM2E competence test 

Pass and you gain the same industry status as a time-served apprentice. 

4 | Full-time education (16-19) 

School-leavers without an employer can start with a classroom programme, collect foundation skills, then transfer to an apprenticeship or NVQ job once hired. Funding is usually available up to age 19. 

Cross-cutting essentials 

Ticket 

Why you need it 

18th-Edition Regs 

Compliance on any install; Amendment 3 now live—check our upcoming 19th-edition preview. 

EV-charging competence 

Domestic and workplace chargers dominate new enquiries—bolt on our dedicated EV charging course in two days. 

Up-to-date rates 

Whether you price day-work or fixed jobs, know the market. Our guide to the current electrician day rate UK keeps your quotes competitive. 

 
Next steps 

  • Book a skills-scan call to confirm the best route for your experience level. 
  • Reserve a course date and start turning theory into paid competence. 

The industry needs qualified electricians; choose the pathway that fits your life and let’s get you on site. 

FAQs 

How does someone become an electrician?

Complete City & Guilds Levels 2 and 3, gain experience via apprenticeship (4 years), achieve NVQ Level 3, and pass AM2 assessment for qualification.

What courses to take to become an electrician?

Take City & Guilds 2365 Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations, followed by NVQ Level 3 for practical competence.

How long do electrician courses take?

City & Guilds Levels 2 and 3 take 1-2 years each; full qualification via apprenticeship takes 3-5 years.

What schools offer electrician courses?

Trade Skills 4U, Access Training UK, York College, Capital City College Group, and Learn Trade Skills offer electrician courses in the UK.

How much do electrician courses cost?

Electrician courses like City & Guilds cost £3,000-£6,000; fast-track options around £4,500; apprenticeships are free with earnings.

What college courses are needed to become an electrician?

College courses needed include City & Guilds 2365 Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma, leading to NVQ and AM2.

Learners are Studying level 2 Electrician Course

Guaranteed Work Placement for Your NVQ

No experience needed. Get started Now.

Prefer to call? Tap here

Learners are Studying level 2 Electrician Course

Guaranteed Work Placement for Your NVQ

No experience needed. Get started Now.

Prefer to call? Tap here

Learners are Studying level 2 Electrician Course

Guaranteed Work Placement for Your NVQ

No experience needed. Get started Now.

Prefer to call? Tap here

Enquire Now for Course Information