Electrical contractors in
Denver, Colorado.
A public directory of licensed electrical contractors serving greater Denver. Market data, licensing requirements, and cost benchmarks — updated continuously from public sources.
Common Job Costs
Licensing Requirements
Licensing Requirements
Colorado requires Master Electrician license or Journeyman Electrician license. Journeyman requires 8000 hours apprenticeship plus PSI exam. Master requires 4 years journeyman experience plus business law exam. Residential Wireman license available for single-family homes only. All licenses renew every 3 years with continuing education requirements.
Permit Requirements
Denver requires electrical permits for new circuits, panel upgrades, and most installations over $50 value. Permits range from $30-$200 depending on scope. Same-day permits available for simple work.
Inspection Schedule
Rough-in inspection before covering work, final inspection after completion. Schedule 24 hours in advance. Additional inspections required for service upgrades and new construction.
Insurance Minimums
Colorado requires $50,000 general liability minimum for electrical contractors. Most municipalities require $100,000-$500,000. Workers compensation mandatory if employees present.
How to Get Licensed
Complete apprenticeship
Complete 8000 hours of electrical apprenticeship under licensed master electrician or approved program. Document all hours with detailed records.
Submit application
File journeyman electrician application with Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies including proof of apprenticeship hours, high school diploma, and application fee.
Pass PSI exam
Schedule and pass the PSI journeyman electrician examination covering NEC code, safety, and Colorado electrical laws. 75% minimum score required.
Obtain insurance
Secure general liability insurance meeting state minimums ($50,000) and workers compensation if employing others.
Apply for local permits
Register with local jurisdictions where you'll work. Denver requires separate contractor registration with Community Planning and Development department.
Maintain continuing education
Complete required continuing education hours every 3 years for license renewal. Track all education credits and submit renewal application with fees.
About This Market
Denver's electrical market is steady year-round with 2122 licensed establishments statewide competing for work. Median wage sits at $31.07/hour, reflecting solid demand driven by new construction in suburbs, aging infrastructure in core neighborhoods, and heavy renovation activity. Panel upgrades dominate residential work due to older housing stock, while commercial growth in tech corridor drives new installation projects. Costs run 10-15% above national average due to permit complexity and material transport costs to elevation. Getting licensed in Colorado takes commitment - 8000 apprenticeship hours plus state exam for journeyman status, then four more years to qualify for master license. Denver's permit system moves fast but inspectors are thorough, especially on service upgrades. Summer months bring peak demand when homeowners tackle major projects. Smart contractors build relationships with local supply houses and stay current on NEC updates. The market rewards quality work - referrals drive most residential business, while commercial requires bonding capacity and established track record.
- Median hourly wageU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates
- Licensed establishments countU.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns
- Licensing requirementsColorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Professions and Occupations
- Permit requirementsCity of Denver Community Planning and Development Department
- Insurance minimumsColorado Revised Statutes, Title 12, Article 23
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an electrician cost per hour in Denver?
Denver electricians typically charge $75-$125 per hour for service calls. According to BLS data, median wage is $31.07/hour, but customer rates include overhead, insurance, and profit margins.
Do I need a permit for electrical work in Denver?
Yes, Denver requires permits for most electrical work over $50 value, including new circuits, outlet additions, and panel upgrades. Simple repairs like replacing switches or fixtures under $50 typically don't require permits.
How long does it take to become a licensed electrician in Colorado?
Colorado requires 8000 hours of apprenticeship (approximately 4 years) plus passing the PSI journeyman exam. Master electrician requires additional 4 years of journeyman experience, per Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.
What's the average cost to upgrade an electrical panel in Denver?
Panel upgrades in Denver typically cost $1200-$3500 depending on amperage and complexity. 100-amp upgrades run lower end, 200-amp with extensive rewiring hits upper range. Permits add $100-$200.
How quickly can I get an electrical inspection scheduled in Denver?
Denver building department requires 24-hour advance notice for electrical inspections. Most inspections occur within 2-3 business days of request, according to Denver Community Planning and Development.
Electrical contractors in Denver
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