This expansion comes in response to increasing demand from electricians seeking formal recognition of their skills. With industry standards evolving and customer expectations rising, NICEIC is committed to supporting professionals in future-proofing their careers.

Following the success of the EWA Installation Electrician route, NICEIC is now introducing the EWA Domestic Electrician route, enabling even more experienced electricians to gain a recognised Level 3 qualification and unlock new career opportunities.

In addition, the Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test, launching in June 2025, offers a new pathway for electricians who typically have over 10 years of experience and want to undertake the EWA, but lack a Level 2 qualification. The first exam window will open in July 2025, with NICEIC leading the way as the first approved centre to deliver this new test. 

The EWA is tailored for electricians who have not completed a traditional apprenticeship or equivalent Level 3 vocational qualification but have extensive industry experience. Two routes are available:

• Installation Electrician
• Domestic Electrician

Both routes are benchmarked against the same standards as formal apprenticeships, ensuring candidates are assessed to Level 3 competency.

The EWA process is built around real-world evidence, allowing candidates to demonstrate their skills through practical assessment. Eligibility requirements include:

• A Level 2 electrical qualification (or equivalent knowledge via the new test)
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience for the Domestic Electrician route
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience for the Installation Electrician route

For those without a Level 2 qualification, the new EAL Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test provides an alternative entry route.

This test assesses core theoretical knowledge, enabling experienced professionals to progress to the EWA. The first test window opens in July 2025, with NICEIC leading the way as the first approved centre to deliver this new test.