The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) is responsible for licensing Master Electricians in Ontario. In this province, only ESA-licensed Master Electricians and electrical contractors are authorized to perform electrical work for customers.
A Master Electrician designation is required if you want to operate an electrical contracting business in Ontario. To qualify for the designation, you must pass the Master Electrician exam offered by ESA. You also need to be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of three years experience in the electrical trade as a journeyperson electrician, practicing the electrician trade in construction or maintenance, or work for an electrical contractor as an engineer. A complete list of requirements can be found on the ESA website.
To prepare to write the Master Electrician exam, you can take courses offered by ESA or other organizations such as community colleges.
Once you pass the exam, you must apply for your licence through the ESA website. There is a checklist covering all requirements to help ensure your application is complete. If you qualify, you should receive your licence within 30 business days.
To maintain a valid Master Electrician licence, you will need to submit an annual licence fee, and continue to fulfill the designation requirements.
For more information about becoming a Master Electrician, visit the ESA website.
