Best Online Electrical Courses in 2026: The Ultimate Guide

Here's the thing about learning electrical work online: it sounds impossible at first. How do you learn a hands-on trade through a screen? How do you practice wiring circuits or troubleshooting panels without actually touching electrical systems?

The truth is, you can't become a licensed electrician entirely online. The trade requires hands-on experience, in-person training, and supervised work hours that no amount of video watching can replace. But here's what online courses can do remarkably well: teach you the theory, codes, calculations, and knowledge you need before, during, or alongside your practical training.

In 2026, online electrical courses have evolved significantly. They're no longer just recorded lectures. They include interactive simulations, 3D circuit modeling, virtual troubleshooting scenarios, and comprehensive preparation for licensing exams. Many electricians use these courses to supplement apprenticeships, prepare for journeyman or master exams, or specialize in areas like solar, industrial controls, or home automation.

This guide explores the best online electrical courses available in 2026, covering everything from absolute beginner fundamentals to advanced specializations and exam preparation. Whether you're starting from zero or looking to advance your existing career, there's a course here that can help.

Understanding Online Electrical Education

Before getting into specific courses, let's clarify what online electrical courses can and cannot do:

What online courses CAN provide:

• Electrical theory and fundamentals
• National Electrical Code (NEC) training
• Exam preparation for licensing tests
• Circuit analysis and calculations
• Specialized topics (solar, industrial, automation)
• Continuing education credits for license renewal
• Blueprint reading and electrical drawings

What online courses CANNOT replace:

• Hands-on wiring practice
• In-person safety training
• Required apprenticeship hours
• State licensing requirements
• Direct mentorship from master electricians
• Physical troubleshooting experience

The best approach combines online learning with practical experience through apprenticeships, trade schools, or supervised work.

Best Courses for Beginners

1. Electrical Fundamentals and Basic Electrical Circuits (Udemy)

Instructor: Kreatryx (Engineering education team) Price: $15-20 on sale (regularly $100+) Duration: 15 hours Level: Complete beginner

What you'll learn: Basic electrical concepts including voltage, current, resistance, Ohm's Law, circuit analysis, series and parallel circuits, and fundamental electrical calculations. The course uses animations and simulations to make abstract concepts concrete.

Why it's excellent: The instructors break down complex concepts into digestible pieces. No prior knowledge is assumed, making it perfect for someone exploring whether electrical work interests them. The visual approach helps you understand what's happening in circuits before you ever touch wire.

Best for: Complete beginners exploring electrical work. High school students considering trades. Anyone needing foundational understanding before apprenticeship.

2. Introduction to Electricity and Magnetism (MIT OpenCourseWare)

Platform: MIT OCW Instructor: MIT Physics Department Price: Free Duration: Full semester course Level: Beginner to intermediate

What you'll learn: University-level physics approach to electricity and magnetism, including electric fields, magnetic fields, circuits, and electromagnetic theory. Complete lecture notes, assignments, and exams available.

Why it's excellent: This is MIT's actual course, providing deep theoretical understanding of how electricity works at a fundamental level. While more academic than trade-focused courses, the knowledge is invaluable for truly understanding your work.

Best for: People wanting deep theoretical understanding. Students preparing for electrical engineering degrees. Apprentices wanting to understand the "why" behind what they're doing.

3. Residential Electrical Wiring for Beginners (Udemy)

Instructor: Tim Hicks Price: $15-20 on sale Duration: 5 hours Level: Beginner

What you'll learn: Residential wiring basics including common circuits, switches, outlets, lighting, and safety practices. Covers tools, materials, and procedures for basic home electrical work.

Why it's excellent: Tim Hicks is a licensed electrician who teaches practical, real-world applications. The course focuses on residential work specifically, which is where many electricians start. Good preparation for what you'll encounter in apprenticeship.

Best for: Aspiring residential electricians. Homeowners wanting to understand their electrical systems. Apprentices supplementing their training.

Best National Electrical Code (NEC) Training

4. NEC 2026 Code Changes and Updates (Mike Holt Enterprises)

Platform: mikeholt.com Instructor: Mike Holt Price: $129-299 depending on package Duration: Self-paced Level: All levels

What you'll learn: Comprehensive coverage of the 2026 NEC code book, including changes from previous versions, code interpretation, and application to real installations.

Why it's excellent: Mike Holt is the most respected name in NEC training. His materials are used by electricians nationwide for exam preparation and continuing education. The explanations make code language understandable and applicable.

Best for: Licensed electricians staying current. Apprentices learning NEC. Anyone preparing for licensing exams.

5. National Electrical Code Essentials (Tom Henry)

Platform: tomhenry.com Price: $99-249 Duration: Self-paced Level: Intermediate

What you'll learn: Core NEC articles and calculations, code interpretation, and practical application. Includes practice problems and real-world scenarios.

Why it's excellent: Tom Henry's teaching style breaks down code complexity into understandable chunks. His calculation methods are clear and systematic, particularly helpful for exam preparation.

Best for: Apprentices and journeymen preparing for exams. Electricians needing NEC refresher training.

6. Electrical Code for Residential Wiring (Penn Foster Career School)

Platform: Penn Foster Price: Part of larger program (~$600-800) Duration: Self-paced Level: Beginner to intermediate

What you'll learn: NEC requirements specifically for residential installations, including service calculations, branch circuits, grounding, and common residential applications.

Why it's excellent: Penn Foster is an accredited distance education institution. The course provides structured learning with assignments and assessments. More comprehensive than single-topic courses.

Best for: People wanting structured, accredited residential electrical training. Career changers planning electrical work.

Best Exam Preparation Courses

7. Journeyman Electrician Exam Prep (Electrician Mentor)

Platform: electricianmentor.com Price: $97-197 for different packages Duration: Self-paced Level: Intermediate

What you'll learn: Comprehensive preparation for state journeyman electrician exams, including NEC questions, code calculations, practical scenarios, and test-taking strategies.

Why it's excellent: Created by licensed electricians specifically for exam success. Includes practice tests that mirror actual exam format and difficulty. Students report high pass rates after using these materials.

Best for: Apprentices completing their hours and preparing for journeyman exam. Anyone who needs structured exam preparation.

8. Master Electrician Exam Preparation (Delmar Cengage)

Platform: Various online retailers and platforms Price: $150-250 Duration: Self-paced Level: Advanced

What you'll learn: Advanced NEC interpretation, complex calculations, service design, and master-level topics. Comprehensive practice exams covering material on state master electrician tests.

Why it's excellent: Delmar Cengage is a major publisher of trade education materials. Their master exam prep is comprehensive and respected. Many master electricians used these materials to pass their exams.

Best for: Journeymen preparing for master electrician licensure. Experienced electricians advancing their careers.

Best Specialized Electrical Courses

9. Solar PV Design and Installation (Solar Energy International)

Platform: solarenergy.org Price: $695-1,495 depending on level Duration: 6-12 weeks Level: Intermediate to advanced

What you'll learn: Photovoltaic system design, installation practices, electrical integration, code compliance, safety, and business practices for solar installation.

Why it's excellent: SEI is the gold standard for solar education, training over 100,000 professionals. Their courses combine electrical knowledge with solar-specific skills in high demand.

Best for: Licensed electricians expanding into solar. Career changers entering renewable energy. Contractors adding solar services.

10. Industrial Electrical Systems and Maintenance (Alison)

Platform: alison.com Price: Free (certificate $24) Duration: 6-10 hours Level: Intermediate

What you'll learn: Industrial electrical systems including motors, motor controls, PLCs, power distribution, and maintenance practices for commercial and industrial facilities.

Why it's excellent: Industrial electrical work pays well and requires specialized knowledge. This course introduces concepts that residential electricians may not encounter. Good foundation for those wanting industrial careers.

Best for: Residential electricians wanting to transition to industrial work. Maintenance technicians adding electrical skills.

11. Home Automation and Smart Home Systems (Udemy)

Platform: Udemy Instructor: Various specialized instructors Price: $15-20 on sale Duration: 8-12 hours Level: Intermediate

What you'll learn: Low-voltage wiring, smart home protocols, automation systems, integration of lighting, security, HVAC, and entertainment systems.

Why it's excellent: Smart home installation is a growing specialty with good profit margins. Understanding these systems differentiates you from basic electricians. Relatively new field with less competition.

Best for: Residential electricians wanting to offer premium services. Tech-savvy electricians interested in integration work.

12. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) Fundamentals (Udemy)

Platform: Udemy Instructor: Paul Lynn Price: $15-20 on sale Duration: 12 hours Level: Intermediate to advanced

What you'll learn: PLC programming basics, ladder logic, industrial automation, and control systems commonly used in manufacturing and industrial settings.

Why it's excellent: PLCs are everywhere in industrial settings. Electricians with PLC knowledge command higher wages and have more career options. The course uses simulation software so you can practice programming.

Best for: Industrial electricians. Maintenance electricians in manufacturing. Anyone wanting automation specialization.

Best Continuing Education for Licensed Electricians

13. NEC Continuing Education Courses (Red Vector)

Platform: redvector.com Price: $19-99 per course Duration: 1-4 hours per course Level: All levels

What you'll learn: Various topics for license renewal including code updates, safety, specific NEC articles, and specialized topics. Courses approved for continuing education credit in most states.

Why it's excellent: Convenient way to maintain licensure without in-person classes. State-approved courses that actually count toward renewal requirements. Wide variety of topics lets you choose relevant material.

Best for: Licensed electricians needing CE credits. Professionals wanting to stay current on specific topics.

14. OSHA Electrical Safety Training (360training.com)

Platform: 360training.com Price: $49-199 depending on course Duration: 4-30 hours depending on level Level: All levels

What you'll learn: OSHA electrical safety standards, arc flash hazards, lockout/tagout procedures, working in confined spaces, and compliance with safety regulations.

Why it's excellent: OSHA compliance is legally required. These courses provide certificates that employers often require. Understanding safety regulations protects you and your career.

Best for: All electricians, especially those in commercial and industrial settings. Contractors needing OSHA compliance documentation.

Best Certificate and Degree Programs

15. Penn Foster Electrician Career Diploma

Platform: pennfoster.edu Price: $749-999 Duration: 9-12 months self-paced Level: Beginner to intermediate

What you'll learn: Comprehensive electrical theory, NEC code, residential and commercial wiring, motor controls, and electrical mathematics. Includes tools and equipment as part of program.

Why it's excellent: Accredited program that provides structured learning path from beginner to apprentice-ready. The hands-on kit lets you practice with actual equipment at home. Accepted by many apprenticeship programs.

Best for: Career changers wanting structured entry into electrical trade. People preparing for apprenticeships. Students wanting accredited training.

16. Ashworth College Electrical Technician Program

Platform: ashworthcollege.edu Price: $1,099-1,399 Duration: 4-12 months Level: Beginner to intermediate

What you'll learn: Electrical fundamentals, AC/DC theory, industrial electrical, motors and controls, troubleshooting, and business practices. Career-focused training with exam preparation.

Why it's excellent: Nationally accredited program with student services support. Self-paced but with instructor access. Includes preparation for independent certification exams.

Best for: Students wanting recognized credentials before entering the field. Career changers needing structured programs.

Platform Comparison

Udemy: Affordable individual courses, quality varies by instructor. Best for specific topics and supplemental learning.

Mike Holt Enterprises: Gold standard for NEC training. Professional materials worth the higher price for serious electricians.

Penn Foster/Ashworth: Accredited programs providing structured pathways. More expensive but comprehensive.

MIT OpenCourseWare: Free theoretical education. Excellent for deep understanding but not trade-focused.

Alison: Free courses with optional certificates. Good for exploration and broad topics.

Red Vector/360training: Continuing education specialists. Essential for maintaining licenses.

How to Choose the Right Electrical Course

Define your goal:

• Exploring the trade? Start with free or low-cost beginner courses.
• Preparing for apprenticeship? Look for comprehensive programs like Penn Foster.
• Studying for licensing exams? Invest in Mike Holt or Tom Henry materials.
• Expanding specialties? Choose targeted courses in solar, automation, or industrial work.
• Maintaining license? Use approved CE credit providers.

Consider your experience: Don't start with advanced courses if you lack fundamentals. Conversely, don't waste time on beginner material if you're already working in the field.

Verify credentials: For CE courses, ensure they're approved in your state. For comprehensive programs, check accreditation. For exam prep, verify the material covers your state's requirements.

Check instructor qualifications: Look for courses taught by licensed electricians, master electricians, or recognized experts like Mike Holt. Trade experience matters more than teaching credentials.

Read recent reviews: Electrical codes change. Recent reviews indicate whether content is current. Look for comments about exam preparation accuracy.

The Reality of Online Electrical Education

Let's be completely honest about what online courses can and cannot do:

Online courses excel at:

• Teaching theory and concepts
• Explaining code requirements
• Preparing you for exams
• Introducing specialized topics
• Providing continuing education

Online courses struggle with:

• Hands-on wiring skills
• Physical troubleshooting
• Safety practices in real scenarios
• Tool proficiency
• Working with energized systems

The winning combination: Online courses for knowledge + apprenticeship/trade school for hands-on skills + supervised work experience = competent electrician.

Don't expect to become an electrician from online courses alone, but do use them to maximize the value of your practical training time.

State Licensing Requirements

Every state has different requirements for electrician licensing. Generally, you need:

• Documented work hours (typically 4,000-8,000 hours)
• Completion of approved education or apprenticeship
• Passing score on written exam
• Sometimes additional requirements like business law exams

Before investing in courses:

• Check your state's specific requirements
• Verify which courses or programs they accept
• Understand the path from apprentice to journeyman to master in your state
• Confirm any continuing education requirements

Online courses can fulfill educational requirements in many states, but always verify before enrolling.

Cost Considerations

Budget approach: $100-500 Free MIT courses for theory, Udemy courses for practical topics, free NEC resources online. Works if supplemented with apprenticeship or trade school.

Moderate investment: $500-1,500 Penn Foster or Ashworth programs plus targeted exam prep materials. Provides structured learning with accredited credentials.

Professional investment: $1,500-3,000+ Mike Holt complete library, specialized training like solar certification, multiple continuing education courses. Typical for serious career advancement.

Remember: Compare online course costs to alternatives:

• Trade school: $5,000-15,000
• Community college: $3,000-8,000 per year
• Apprenticeship: Often free or paid, but limited availability

Online courses offer flexibility and cost savings while providing legitimate knowledge.

Making Online Electrical Courses Work

Create hands-on opportunities: Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, practice on your own home (where legal and safe), build practice circuits, shadow electricians.

Join communities: Electrician forums, Facebook groups, Reddit communities connect you with professionals who answer questions and provide guidance.

Study the code book: Online courses teach NEC, but you need your own code book to reference. Learn to navigate it independently.

Practice calculations: Electrical math is crucial. Work problems daily until calculations become automatic.

Ask questions: Most quality courses offer instructor access or forums. Use them. Confusion about electrical concepts can be dangerous in practice.

The Bottom Line

Online electrical courses in 2026 provide valuable knowledge and preparation for electrical careers, but they're tools, not complete solutions. The electricians who succeed combine online learning with practical experience, formal apprenticeships, and dedication to mastering both theory and hands-on skills.

The courses listed here represent the best available online electrical education. Whether you're starting from zero, preparing for licensing exams, or specializing in growing fields like solar or automation, these courses can accelerate your progress significantly.

But remember: electrical work is serious. It affects people's safety, property, and lives. Online courses teach you what you need to know, but hands-on experience under supervision teaches you how to work safely and effectively.

Use online courses to maximize your educational time and money, but never skip the practical training that makes knowledge applicable and safe.

Your electrical education can start online today. Where it goes depends on how you combine that knowledge with real-world experience.

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