Becoming a lineman might be a perfect fit if you’re hands-on, physically strong, and looking for a high-demand job that doesn’t require a college degree. Across the United States, line installers and repairers keep our electrical systems running, especially with growing infrastructure demands and weather-related emergencies. This guide explains how to become a lineman, what kind of certifications you’ll need, how long it typically takes, and what you can expect to earn once you’re on the job.

Quick look:

• Learn how to become a lineman, from meeting eligibility requirements to completing an apprenticeship and earning journeyman status.
• Explore the time and cost involved, plus what makes the job physically and mentally demanding compared to other trades.
• Get the latest salary insights, from entry-level to experienced linemen, and see which states pay the most.
• Discover success tips, training resources, and why this high-demand career offers strong long-term potential without needing a college degree.

How long does it take to become a lineman?

On average, it takes three to four years to become a lineman in the United States. That timeline includes classroom instruction and hands-on job training through a lineman apprenticeship program.

Most people start by attending a technical college, community college, or lineman school, such as Northwest Lineman College, where they learn the basics of electrical systems, safety regulations, and the tools of the trade. From there, they typically move into an Electrical Lineworker Program or an apprentice lineman position, gaining experience working on distribution lines, electrical power lines, and other utility infrastructure.

The exact timeline can vary depending on your background. You might move through the process a bit faster if you already have some work experience, hold a certificate program credential, or meet certain qualifications (like having a Class A CDL). Either way, becoming a lineman takes time, effort, and commitment, but it’s a career path with strong demand and solid rewards.

How hard is it to become a lineman?

Becoming a lineman is more physically demanding than other trades like HVAC or plumbing. The job involves climbing utility poles, handling electrical equipment, and working on power lines, often at heights or in harsh weather conditions. Linemen are also among the first responders during natural disasters, helping to restore the electrical grid when storms or outages hit.

It’s not an easy path, but it can be a great fit if you have mechanical aptitude and physical strength and are comfortable with hands-on work outdoors. You’ll also need a valid driver’s license and, in many cases, a commercial driver’s license (CDL). The training is challenging, but the skills you gain are valuable, and the career payoff is worth it.

How much does it cost to become a lineman?

The cost of becoming a lineman can vary quite a bit depending on the path you take. Most lineman training programs range from $3,000 to $20,000, with tuition varying based on the length of the program and whether it’s offered through a technical school, community college, or a private line school like Northwest Lineman College.

However, if you enter a lineman apprenticeship program, much of your job training is paid or covered by utility companies or local trade unions. That means you’ll earn while you learn, which significantly helps offset costs.

Still, there are a few extra expenses to keep in mind. You might need a Class A CDL (commercial driver’s license), first aid certification, and your own set of tools. There could also be costs for travel and lodging if you’re relocating for training classes or job openings. Planning ahead can help make the financial side more manageable.

6 steps to become a lineman

1. Meet basic eligibility requirements

Before you start climbing power poles or working on electrical distribution systems, there are a few boxes to check. 

• First, you’ll need to be at least 18
• You’ll also need a high school diploma or GED certificate
• You need to have a valid driver’s license
• A Class A CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) is often required, especially if you plan to operate bucket trucks or other heavy equipment on job sites

2. Pass an aptitude or pre-employment test

Once you meet the basic requirements, the next step is usually an aptitude test or pre-employment assessment. These tests are designed to measure your skills in math, mechanical reasoning, and spatial awareness. This step is crucial for understanding electrical systems and working safely around power lines. Scoring well shows you’ve got the foundation to succeed in both training and on the job.

3. Enroll in a training program or technical school

Before figuring out how to become a lineman apprentice, many aspiring linemen attend a technical school, trade school, or specialized line school. These programs offer classroom instruction and hands-on practice with electrical equipment, distribution systems, and tools of the trade.

Schools like Northwest Lineman College and other Electrical Lineworker Programs provide real-world training on everything from transmission lines to bucket truck operations. Some programs also offer Certificate Programs for those looking to fast-track their career.

4. Apply for a lineman apprenticeship

A lineman apprenticeship program is the core of your training and the most important step in becoming a journeyman lineman. These programs combine paid, on-the-job experience with classroom learning, usually lasting three to four years.

You’ll work alongside experienced electrical linemen, learning to install and maintain electrical power lines, handle electrical equipment, and follow strict safety regulations.

5. Get on-the-job experience

You’ll rack up thousands of hours working on real job sites during your apprenticeship. Expect to climb poles, ride in bucket trucks, and work with distribution lines, transmission lines, and sometimes even optic cables.

You’ll develop your skills in this phase, from reading electrical schematics to troubleshooting live electrical systems. You’ll also gain experience dealing with weather conditions, emergency power restoration, and lineworker safety protocols.

6. Become a journeyman lineman

After completing your apprenticeship, which usually involves more than 7,000 hours of supervised work and classroom training, you’re eligible to become a journeyman lineman. That means you’re fully certified to work independently on electrical distribution, transmission, and utility systems across the United States.

With this certification, you can apply for any open lineman position, take on more responsibility, and even begin specializing in higher-paying or leadership roles.

How much does a lineman make a year?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2024, the median annual wage for electrical power-line installers and repairers is $63,120, with the top 10% earning over $98,000 per year.

Entry-level apprentice linemen typically start between $45,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location and employer. As you gain experience and become a journeyman lineman, salaries can exceed $100,000, especially when factoring in overtime, contract work, or specialized skills like working on transmission lines or optic cables.

Salaries can also vary by state. For instance, linemen in California and Massachusetts often earn higher wages than those in other regions.

The job outlook for linemen remains strong. Factors such as aging infrastructure, electrical grid expansion, and the increasing demand for fiber/optic cable installations contribute to steady employment opportunities. Additionally, the push for renewable energy sources and the need for disaster response teams further enhance job stability in this field.

Top tips for success as a lineman in the U.S.

• Stay physically fit: This physically demanding job calls for serious strength, stamina, and the ability to work long hours in all weather conditions. The better shape you’re in, the easier it is to handle the daily challenges of climbing poles, operating bucket trucks, and working with electrical equipment.
• Be safety-first: Following safety regulations isn’t optional. Whether working on power lines, near power plants, or during a natural disaster, staying alert and prioritizing safety keeps you and your crew out of harm’s way.
• Take extra training: If you want to boost your earnings, consider specialized training in transmission line work or optic cables. These skills are in high demand and can lead to better job openings and faster advancement.
• Build soft skills: You won’t always be working alone. Solid communication and teamwork are important, especially when coordinating high-risk tasks during outages or emergency repairs. Being easy to work with goes a long way in this field.
• Keep certifications current: Make sure your Class A CDL, first aid, and electrical lineworker program credentials stay up to date. It’s important for safety and compliance and keeps you competitive in the job market.

Is becoming a lineman a good career?

Absolutely, especially in the United States, where demand for electrical linemen continues to grow. Employment of electrical power-line installers and repairers is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the need to upgrade aging infrastructure, expand electrical distribution systems, and install new fiber optic cables.

This career is an excellent fit for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, are detail-oriented and thrive in outdoor environments. The job often involves working at heights and in various weather conditions, making physical fitness and comfort with heights important qualities.

Many states offer incentives for apprenticeship training programs, which can provide a pathway to becoming a journeyman lineman. Additionally, union-backed positions often come with excellent benefits and job security. 

Bottom line

Becoming a lineman takes time, training, and commitment, but it’s a career with serious upside for those ready to roll up their sleeves. From strong pay and steady job security to hands-on work and room to grow, it’s one of the most reliable paths in the skilled trades.

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