Training
The Complete Guide to Trade Apprenticeships
Earn while you learn: how to find, apply for, and succeed in an apprenticeship program. The time-tested path to a skilled trade career.
12 min read|Updated March 2024
Paid Training
$15-30/hr while learning
No Debt
Training is employer-paid
2-5 Years
Typical program length
93% Job Rate
Employed after completion
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured training program where you learn a trade through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Unlike trade school, you are employed from day one and earn wages while developing your skills.
Apprenticeship Structure
On-the-Job Training
2,000+ hours per year working under supervision of experienced journeyworkers
Related Instruction
144+ hours per year of classroom learning, often in evening or weekend classes
Apprenticeship by Trade
| Trade | Duration | Starting Pay | Journey Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | 4-5 years | $16-22/hr | $30-45/hr |
| Plumber | 4-5 years | $15-20/hr | $28-42/hr |
| HVAC | 3-5 years | $14-18/hr | $25-38/hr |
| Carpenter | 3-4 years | $14-18/hr | $24-36/hr |
| Welder | 3-4 years | $15-19/hr | $26-40/hr |
| Sheet Metal | 4-5 years | $16-20/hr | $28-42/hr |
Union vs. Non-Union Apprenticeships
Union Apprenticeships
- Structured, nationally recognized curriculum
- Higher wages and benefits
- Portable credentials
- More competitive entry
Non-Union Apprenticeships
- Easier to get accepted
- More flexibility in training
- Often shorter programs
- Variable quality—research carefully
How to Find Apprenticeships
Where to Search
Apprenticeship.gov
Official DOL database of registered apprenticeships
Local Union Halls
IBEW, UA, SMART, Carpenters—contact directly for applications
Community Colleges
Many partner with employers for apprenticeship programs
State Labor Departments
Lists of registered programs in your state
Direct Employer Applications
Large contractors often have their own programs
Application Requirements
Requirements vary by program, but most apprenticeships require:
- Age: Minimum 18 years old (some accept 17 with parental consent)
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Physical: Ability to perform trade work, pass drug test
- Math: Basic algebra (most programs test this)
- Driver's License: Required for most trades
- Interview: Demonstrate commitment and aptitude
Tips for Getting Accepted
- 1
Apply to multiple programs
Union programs are competitive—cast a wide net
- 2
Take a pre-apprenticeship course
Shows commitment and gives you a head start
- 3
Brush up on math
Practice algebra and geometry before aptitude tests
- 4
Get any relevant experience
Helper work, construction labor, or related jobs
- 5
Prepare for the interview
Research the trade, dress professionally, show enthusiasm
What to Expect as an Apprentice
The apprenticeship journey typically follows this progression:
Year 1
Learning the basics
Tool handling, safety, assisting journeyworkers. Pay: ~50% of journey rate
Year 2
Building skills
More independent work, handling routine tasks. Pay: ~60% of journey rate
Year 3-4
Advanced work
Complex installations, troubleshooting, leadership. Pay: ~75-90% of journey rate
Final
Journey certification
Pass final exams, earn full journeyworker status and pay
Ready to start your journey?
Find out which trade apprenticeship is the best fit for you.