Electrical Contractor Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a electrical contractor in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.

$700 -- $2200 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Philadelphia / Philadelphia County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Philadelphia Electrical Contractor License

Philadelphia requires its own Electrical Contractor License issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I). The qualifying electrician must hold a City of Philadelphia Journeyman Electrician license or higher. Applicants must pass a Philadelphia-specific exam, have relevant electrical experience, and carry a $10,000 surety bond and general liability insurance.

$225 application fee; $100/year renewal4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Philadelphia Business Privilege License

All businesses operating in Philadelphia must obtain a Business Privilege License from the Philadelphia Department of Revenue and register for the Business Income and Receipts Tax (BIRT).

$300 one-time registration fee1–5 days
Official government source

Pennsylvania State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Pennsylvania — No Statewide Electrical Contractor License

Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide electrical contractor license. Licensing is handled locally. Philadelphia has its own licensing system. In other Pennsylvania municipalities, requirements vary. Statewide, all electrical work must comply with the PA Uniform Construction Code (UCC) which is based on the NEC.

N/A (licensing is local)N/A
Official government source
2

Pennsylvania Business Entity Registration (if applicable)

LLCs and corporations must register with the Pennsylvania Department of State.

$125 (LLC filing fee)3–5 business days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

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