Complete Guide to Becoming a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) in Singapore

 Complete Guide to Becoming a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) in Singapore

What is a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW)?

A Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) is a professional certified by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) of Singapore to carry out electrical work legally. LEWs ensure electrical systems are installed, maintained, and operated safely.

Types of LEW Licenses

There are three classes of LEW licenses in Singapore:

1. Electrician (Class 1)

• Can install, maintain, repair, and test electrical installations not exceeding 45 kVA.

2. Electrical Technician (Class 2)

• Can install, maintain, repair, and test electrical installations up to 750 kVA and perform design work within limits.

3. Electrical Engineer (Class 3)

• Can design, install, maintain, inspect, and test all types of electrical installations without restrictions.

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Eligibility Criteria for LEW Licensing

1. Class 1 (Electrician)

• Minimum Qualification:
  • ITE Nitec in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Work Experience:
  • At least 2 years of relevant experience.
• Assessment:
  • Pass an interview & practical test conducted by EMA.

2. Class 2 (Electrical Technician)

• Minimum Qualification:
  • Higher Nitec / Diploma in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Work Experience:
  • At least 5 years of relevant electrical work experience.
• Assessment:
  • Pass a written test & interview by EMA.

3. Class 3 (Electrical Engineer)

• Minimum Qualification:
  • Degree in Electrical Engineering (recognized by Singapore authorities).
• Work Experience:
  • At least 2 years of relevant experience under a licensed LEW.
• Assessment:
  • Pass a technical interview & written test conducted by EMA.

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Can Foreigners Become an LEW in Singapore?

Yes, foreigners can apply for an LEW license, but they must:

1. Have a valid work visa (Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit).
2. Hold a recognized electrical engineering qualification (foreign qualifications may need verification).
3. Gain relevant experience in Singapore under a licensed LEW before applying.
4. Pass the EMA assessment for the respective LEW class.

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How to Apply for an LEW License?

Step 1: Meet the Educational and Experience Requirements

Ensure that you meet the minimum qualification and work experience needed for the LEW class you are applying for.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You will need:
✅ Academic certificates (Nitec, Diploma, Degree)
✅ Work experience records (letters from employers)
✅ NRIC / Work Pass (for foreigners)
✅ Passport-sized photograph
✅ Resume (for Class 3 applicants)

Step 3: Submit an Application to EMA

• Apply online via EMA e-Licensing portal (https://www.ema.gov.sg/).
• Pay the application fee (varies by LEW class).

Step 4: Take the EMA Assessment

• Class 1: Practical test & interview.
• Class 2: Written test & interview.
• Class 3: Written test & technical interview.

Step 5: Receive Your LEW License

If you pass the assessment, EMA will issue your LEW license. The license is valid for 3 years and must be renewed.

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Where to Study Electrical Engineering Courses in Singapore?

For Local & Foreign Students

To qualify for LEW licensing, you can take courses at:

1. Institute of Technical Education (ITE)

• Course: Nitec / Higher Nitec in Electrical Engineering
• Website: https://www.ite.edu.sg

2. Singapore Polytechnic (SP)

• Course: Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
• Website: https://www.sp.edu.sg

3. Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP)

• Course: Diploma in Electrical Engineering
• Website: https://www.nyp.edu.sg

4. Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP)

• Course: Diploma in Electrical Engineering
• Website: https://www.np.edu.sg

5. PSB Academy (for Foreigners & Working Adults)

• Course: Electrical Engineering Diploma / Degree
• Website: https://www.psb-academy.edu.sg

6. National University of Singapore (NUS) & Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

• Course: Degree in Electrical Engineering
• Website: https://nus.edu.sg | https://ntu.edu.sg

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Additional Notes for Foreigners

• If your electrical engineering degree is from another country, EMA may require you to take additional courses in Singapore.
• Some private institutions offer diploma conversion programs for foreign qualifications.
• To gain Singapore work experience, you may need to work under a licensed LEW before applying.

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Conclusion

Becoming a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW) in Singapore requires the right qualifications, experience, and EMA assessment. Foreigners can apply but must meet work pass requirements and ensure their qualifications are recognized.