How many electrical CE hours do I need for my Utah license renewal?

All licensed electricians in Utah need 16 hours of continuing education every two years. This must include 12 'Core' hours, which are composed of 8 hours on the National Electrical Code (NEC) and 4 hours on NFPA 70E, plus an additional 4 'Professional' hours.

When is the deadline for the Utah electrical license renewal?

The deadline for all Utah electrical license renewals is November 30th of every even-numbered year. For example, the upcoming deadlines are November 30, 2024, November 30, 2026, and so on.

Do I have to take a course on the 2023 NEC for my renewal?

Yes. As of July 1, 2024, Utah requires all electrical work to comply with the 2023 National Electrical Code. Therefore, your 8 hours of NEC-focused 'Core' CE must cover the 2023 NEC updates to be compliant.

What happens if I miss the Utah electrical license renewal deadline?

If you miss the November 30th deadline, your license will expire. To reactivate it, you must apply for reinstatement by submitting a manual, paper application to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) and may have to pay additional late fees.

What is the breakdown of Core vs. Professional CE hours for Utah electricians?

The 16-hour requirement is divided into 12 'Core' hours and 4 'Professional' hours. The Core hours must cover 8 hours on the NEC and 4 hours on NFPA 70E. The Professional hours can be additional Core topics or subjects like business practices and project management.

Utah Electrical License Renewal: A Guide to CE and 2023 Code Updates

In Utah’s fast-growing construction landscape, staying on top of your electrical license renewal isn’t just a regulatory chore—it’s a critical part of maintaining your professional edge. With the biennial deadline of November 30th in even-numbered years always approaching, understanding the specific requirements set by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) is essential. For every master electrician, journeyman, and residential electrician, this cycle is a crucial time to update your knowledge, particularly with significant code changes on the horizon. This guide will break down the exact continuing education you need and highlight the upcoming transition to the 2023 NEC, ensuring your Utah electrical license renewal is smooth and compliant.

Your Biennial Renewal Checklist: Core Requirements for Utah Electricians

The foundation of your license renewal is completing the mandatory continuing education. According to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing, all licensed electricians must renew their license by the November 30 deadline of each even-numbered year. Failure to do so results in an expired license and can disrupt your ability to work. The core of this process is the completion of 16 hours of approved CE from a state-approved CE provider.

These requirements apply equally across several license types, including:

Master Electrician
Journeyman Electrician
Residential Master Electrician
Residential Journeyman Electrician

While the scope of work for a residential electrician differs from a commercial journeyman, the CE hour requirements for renewal are the same for all. This ensures every licensed professional in Utah maintains a consistent standard of safety and code knowledge.

Decoding Your 16 Electrical CE Hours: Core vs. Professional

The Utah Administrative Code is very specific about how your 16 hours must be structured. The state divides the requirement into “Core” and “Professional” subjects to ensure electricians receive a well-rounded education covering both technical code and other career-enhancing topics. According to the Utah Administrative Code R156-55b-304, “each licensee shall complete at least 16 hours of continuing education during each two-year license term.”

Here’s the official breakdown:

12 Hours of “Core” Continuing Education: This is the mandatory technical portion of your renewal. It must include:
- 8 Hours on the National Electrical Code (NEC): This coursework focuses on the currently adopted NEC, covering key changes and critical safety articles.
- 4 Hours on NFPA 70E: This portion is dedicated to the standard for electrical safety in the workplace, making NFPA 70E training an essential part of your compliance.
4 Hours of “Professional” Continuing Education: These hours offer flexibility. You can choose to take more Core hours or select from professional development topics such as business practices, project management, advanced safety protocols (beyond NFPA 70E), or new technologies. These online electrical courses help you grow not just as a technician, but as a well-rounded professional.

The 2023 NEC is Here: Utah’s New Electrical Code

A major shift in Utah’s electrical code has occurred. While previous renewals focused on the 2020 NEC, Utah has officially adopted the 2023 NEC, with an effective date of July 1, 2024. According to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) and Utah Administrative Code, all electrical work must now comply with this new standard. This makes courses covering the 2023 NEC updates essential for your current and future license renewals.

Getting ahead of these changes is crucial for any forward-thinking electrician. Key modifications in the 2023 NEC affect everything from GFCI requirements and emergency disconnects to workplace safety protocols. Understanding how NEC 2023 definition changes have impacted electrical work will be vital for compliance on future projects. Furthermore, with safety standards continually evolving, staying current on topics like updated arc-flash hazard warning requirements is non-negotiable for job site safety and aligns with the state’s emphasis on NFPA 70E training. You can also learn how NFPA 70E 2024 updates have changed electrical job safety planning to be even more prepared.

The Renewal Process and What Happens if You’re Late

Once you complete your journeyman electrician continuing education or master electrician courses, your provider will report the hours to DOPL. After the hours are posted, you can complete your renewal online and pay the fee through the DOPL online renewal portal. According to the DOPL website (source: dopl.utah.gov), the renewal fee is currently $84.

Electrical License Reinstatement in Utah

What if you miss the November 30 deadline? Your license will expire. To reactivate it, you must apply for reinstatement. The DOPL states that those seeking electrical license reinstatement Utah must submit a manual, paper application rather than using the online portal. This process typically involves proving completion of all required CE and may include paying additional late fees. To avoid complications, it is highly recommended you complete your renewal on time.

Meeting the Standard, From Apprentice to Master

Whether you’re a recent graduate from an electrician school working as a residential journeyman or you hold a master electrician license Utah with decades of experience, the biennial license renewal process is the same. The DOPL electrical license system is designed to ensure a uniform standard of safety and expertise across the state. By understanding the specific breakdown of core vs. professional CE and staying informed about upcoming code changes, you position yourself as a true professional committed to your trade.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Fulfill your 16-hour requirement with courses designed to be engaging, relevant, and convenient. ExpertCE offers a full suite of state-approved courses that meet all Utah DOPL requirements. Browse our courses today to get started on your renewal and stay ahead in your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many electrical CE hours do I need for my Utah license renewal?: All licensed electricians in Utah (Master, Journeyman, Residential Master, and Residential Journeyman) need 16 hours of continuing education every two years. This must include 12 “Core” hours (8 on the NEC, 4 on NFPA 70E) and 4 “Professional” hours.
When is the deadline for the Utah electrical license renewal?: The deadline is November 30th of every even-numbered year (e.g., 2024, 2026, 2028).
Do I have to take a course on the 2023 NEC for my renewal?: Yes. As of July 1, 2024, Utah requires electrical installations to comply with the 2023 NEC. Therefore, your 8 hours of NEC-focused ‘Core’ CE must cover the 2023 NEC updates to be compliant for renewal and to stay current with state law.