District of Columbia requires a state-level solar installer license. The licensing authority is State Contractors Board / Electrical Board. The median salary is $61,017 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
District of Columbia requires a solar installer to hold a state license. Install, maintain, and repair photovoltaic solar energy systems on residential and commercial buildings. Licensing is administered by the State Contractors Board / Electrical Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | NABCEP certification or equivalent training + electrical experience |
| Experience Details | NABCEP certification or equivalent training + electrical experience |
District of Columbia requires passing the District of Columbia Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP) with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $100.
| Exam Name | District of Columbia Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP) |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP) |
| Application Fee | $100 |
Getting licensed as a solar installer in District of Columbia takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $100 and renewal fees of $100 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $100 |
| License Renewal | $100 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Solar Installers in District of Columbia earn a median salary of $61,017, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in District of Columbia |
| National average | $47,670 |
Yes — District of Columbia requires a state-level solar installer license. Install, maintain, and repair photovoltaic solar energy systems on residential and commercial buildings.
The required exam is the District of Columbia Solar Installer Certification Exam (NABCEP). You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $100.
The median annual salary for solar installers in District of Columbia is $61,017. The national median is $47,670.
District of Columbia requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.