What qualification do I need to work as an electrician in Austria?

You need a qualification exam (Befaehigungspruefung) with 5 modules. HTL diploma or university degree with experience are alternatives.

Do I need to register with the grid operator as an electrician?

Yes, you must be registered in the installer directory (Installateurverzeichnis) of the local grid operator, separate from the trade license.

English

Electrician Trade License (Elektrotechnik)

GewO §94 Z.14 Verified: April 2026

Key Facts

Type: Regulated trade
Qualification: Qualification exam — 5 modules
Registration cost: Free (€0)
Exam fees: Covered by government since July 2023
Start immediately: Yes
Also needed: Registration with grid operator (Installateurverzeichnis)

Qualification Alternatives

HTL diploma (Technical High School in Electrical Engineering) + 3 years practical experience
University/FH degree in Electrical Engineering + 2 years practical experience
Individual assessment (§19 GewO) based on extensive work experience
Qualified manager with the qualification

Important: Grid Operator Registration

The trade license alone is not enough! For electrical installations, you also need to be registered in the installer directory (Installateurverzeichnis) of the responsible grid operator. This is separate from the trade registration.

Vollständige deutsche Version →

Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.

Electrician Trade License (Elektrotechnik)

Key Facts

Qualification Alternatives

Important: Grid Operator Registration

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