Becoming an Electrical Contractor

Electrical Contractors FAQs

[+] Why does Sioux Falls require licenses?
The main objective is to protect the residents and properties in the city of Sioux Falls. Life safety is the number one goal! General knowledge of electrical work is needed to pass examination. Licensure assures protection of the contractor, the home or business owner, and the city.
[+] I already have a license in another state, does Sioux Falls reciprocate?
No, the city of Sioux Falls does not reciprocate any licenses. The South Dakota Electrical Commission may be able to reciprocate your license, but once you receive your South Dakota state license you will still need to take and pass examination with the city before applying for the city license. You may contact the South Dakota Electrical Commission at http://dol.sd.gov/bdcomm/electric/ for more information regarding state license requirements.
[+] I already have a state license, isn't this good enough?
If you are doing any electrical work in the city of Sioux Falls, you must also carry the City of Sioux Falls license.
[+] What is required to pass examination?
Electrical Contractor examination requires 75% or higher score for passing.
[+] What type of questions should I expect on the examination?
Please review the study suggestions on the examination application (2B25016 Link on the right) for more information
[+] I just want to do this part-time, like helping friends finish their electrical work in the basement and other small projects. What license do I need for this?
If you are receiving compensation for doing electrical work, even if part-time, you are required to hold a state and city Electrical Contractor’s or Class B license. All work must be inspected, and the inspections must be called in under an Electrical Contractor’s license.
[+] I am just doing low-voltage camera/cable installation. Do I need a license?
This information can vary greatly! Please contact our electrical inspectors at 605-367-8250 and provide them with detailed information regarding the type of work. We will be able to answer your question in detail.
[+] What if I want to do construction, plumbing, or mechanical (HVAC) work?

Separate licenses are required for each field (building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical). There are examinations required for each field. Electrical and plumbing also require state licenses before applying for examination with the city.

Under no circumstances is an Electrical Contractor allowed to do any plumbing, mechanical or residential building work unless they also hold the appropriate, additionally required, licenses.
[+] What if I fail the test, can I take it again next month?
The first time you take an exam and fail, you are able to retest again in 30 days. Each time you fail the exam following, you must wait 90 days before you are able to retest.
[+] What if I pass the test, but don’t apply for the license within 90 days?
You must retest if you do not apply for a license with 90 days of exam. It is recommended that you apply for Inactive Electrical Contractor before the 90 day deadline to avoid retesting, if not immediately applying for Electrical Contractor.
[+] Once I get the license, is it good forever?
No, licenses must remain active by providing current bond (when required). Licenses also must be renewed every two years. If a license expires, it cannot be renewed after 12 months from expiration without re-examination, unless the Electrical Contractor has applied for and kept current his Inactive license.