Guide
18th Edition: the IET Wiring Regulations, BS 7671, explained
Updated
The 18th Edition is BS 7671:2018, the IET Wiring Regulations, the UK standard for electrical installations. Its fourth amendment was published on 15 April 2026, and electricians show they know it by passing the City & Guilds 2382 exam.
What the 18th Edition is
The IET's own page calls BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 (Amendment 4) the current edition of the national standard for electrical installations in the UK, and says the transition period for Amendment 2 ended on 15 October 2026, so Amendment 2 should no longer be used for new work or certification.
The qualification
The qualification is the City & Guilds Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations, now 2382-26. It is assessed by an exam that PASS describes as two hours long.
Where the law points to it
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require electrical systems to be constructed so as to prevent danger, and the Building Regulations guidance for electrical work in homes, Approved Document P, is published on GOV.UK. The competent person schemes listed on GOV.UK let registered electricians self-certify that work.
Sources: Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, regulation 4, Approved Document P, competent person schemes.
What the course costs
Online full courses publish £265 to £310, classroom courses a median of £445, and the update £195 to £245, across the price index.
Source: price index