Renewing Your Colorado Electrical License: CEU Guide for 2025

Colorado’s Triennial License Renewal: Mark Your Calendar for 2026

Unlike states with annual renewals, Colorado operates on a three-year cycle tied to the state’s adoption of the National Electrical Code. All Master Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, and Residential Wireman licenses follow this schedule. According to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), the current license period expires on September 30, 2026. While that may seem far off, the triennial license renewal period passes quickly, and completing your requirements early is the smartest strategy.

This cycle also applies to your Electrical contractor registration, so it’s essential to keep all your credentials aligned. Missing this deadline can lead to late fees and potential lapses in your ability to work legally.

The 24-Hour CEU Requirement: One Standard for All Licenses

The Colorado State Electrical Board has streamlined the continuing education process. Whether you hold a Master Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, or Residential Wireman license, the core requirements are the same. According to the official Colorado DORA electrical license page, all three license types must complete 24 hours of continuing education, also known as Professional Development Units (PDUs), every three-year cycle to be eligible for renewal.

This uniformity simplifies planning for electricians at every stage of their careers. The first renewal after you pass your initial licensing exam is the only exception; you are not required to complete CEUs for that first cycle.

CE Requirements: Master vs. Journeyman vs. Residential Wireman

Here is a clear breakdown of the requirements as specified by the Colorado State Electrical Board. Note the consistency across all license types.

Source: Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies – State Electrical Board.

Decoding Your 24 PDUs: A Focus on Core Competencies

Your 24-hour CEU requirement is not just about accumulating hours; it’s about focusing on specific Core Competencies defined by the board to ensure you’re up-to-date on critical knowledge. When selecting online electrical courses or in-person training, you must choose from the following approved topics.

• NEC Code Changes (4 Hours Minimum): This is the only mandatory topic category. With the state now enforcing the 2023 NEC, these hours are crucial for understanding the latest rules impacting your work.
• Grounding and Bonding: A fundamental concept that is consistently updated and critical for safety and system performance.
• Wiring Methods: Refresh your knowledge on the approved materials and techniques for various installations.
• Electrical Theory and Calculations: Sharpen your understanding of the principles that underpin all electrical work.
• NFPA 70E Safety Training (4 Hours Maximum): You can earn up to four PDU credits for safety-related courses. Per Colorado Electrical Board rules, these hours are optional and not mandatory for renewal. This is an excellent way to reinforce safe work practices while fulfilling a portion of your 24-hour total.

Navigating the 2023 NEC in Colorado

The Colorado State Electrical Board has adopted the 2023 Edition of the National Electrical Code, which became effective on August 1, 2023. This update introduced significant changes that every professional in the field needs to master. From modified GFCI requirements to new rules for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, the 2023 NEC impacts nearly every aspect of the trade. For example, understanding the nuances of these updates is vital, and you can learn more about specific rules like how 2023 NEC rules apply to refurbishing GFCIs and other equipment. Focusing your CEUs on these NEC code changes is not just a requirement—it’s a competitive advantage.

Choosing State Electrical Board Approved Providers

To ensure your hard work counts, you must complete your continuing education with State Electrical Board approved providers. These are training organizations that have formally attested to the DORA that their courses and instructors meet the state’s standards. Before enrolling in any electrician school or course, verify its approval status. Many approved providers offer flexible and convenient online electrical courses, allowing you to complete your 24 hours on your own schedule. When you’re ready to fulfill your requirements, you can browse our courses to find state-approved options that fit your needs.

Remember to keep your certificates of completion in a safe place for at least four (4) years from the date of license expiration. The DORA conducts random audits, and you are personally responsible for providing this documentation if selected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if I miss the Colorado electrical license renewal deadline?
If you fail to renew by the September 30, 2026, deadline, your license will become inactive. There are typically grace periods with late fees, but letting a license lapse for too long could result in having to retake the state examination to become relicensed. It’s best to contact the DORA directly for specific options.

Do I need to complete CEUs for my very first license renewal?
No. According to the State Electrical Board, the 24-hour CE requirement does not apply to the first renewal of a license if you had to pass a licensing exam to obtain it. This exemption applies to your initial Journeyman electrician renewal, Master electrician renewal, or Residential Wireman license renewal.

Does Colorado have reciprocal licensing agreements?
Yes, Colorado has reciprocal licensing agreements for the Journeyman electrician license with several states, including Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. This allows licensed journeymen from those states to obtain a Colorado license by endorsement without taking the exam. Always verify current agreements directly with the DORA, as these can change.