Essential Electrician Tools
Everything you need to start your career as an electrician. Hand tools, power tools, safety gear, and the estimated startup cost.
At a glance
11
Hand tools
Day-one essentials
5
Power tools
Add as you grow
4
Safety items
Non-negotiable
$600–$2,500 for a basic toolkit
Startup cost
Full kit
Hand tools
Essential hand tools
- Wire strippers
- Multimeter
- Non-contact voltage tester
- Lineman's pliers
- Diagonal cutting pliers
- Needle-nose pliers
- Fish tape
- Cable ripper
- Screwdriver set (insulated)
- Conduit bender
- Electrical tape
Power tools
Power tools to invest in
- Drill/driver
- Rotary hammer
- Reciprocating saw
- Band saw (portable)
- Cable pulling machine
Safety
Safety gear (non-negotiable)
- Insulated gloves (rated for voltage)
- Safety glasses
- Hard hat
- Arc-flash rated clothing
Budget
Estimated startup cost
$600–$2,500 for a basic toolkit
A starter kit covers hand tools and basic power tools. Specialized tools (drain machines, bending machines, etc.) are usually purchased once you start handling specific job types.