An electrician is defined as, “all persons who engage in the connection of electrical devices for electrical contractors”, per the state of California.
Starting your journey to becoming an electrician in California begins with a crucial decision: selecting the type of electrician you aim to be. The state offers five distinct licenses under the electrical category, each catering to different aspects of the field.
To get started you’ll need to become an electrician trainee.
Embarking on your career starts with these steps: enrolling in a state-approved electrician trainee program and registering with the State of California. This process is your gateway to the profession.
A list of approved schools can be found here.
Be sure to read the entire Electrician and Trainee Guide for more details about each step.
Once you’ve registered as a trainee with the state you will be allowed to attend your chosen school.
It’s important to renew your application to the Electrician Trainee program every year or it will lapse.
Our comprehensive guide details over 25 electrical apprenticeships across California, designed to inform you and pave your way to becoming a skilled electrician in the state.
The majority of electrical apprenticeships are part of the Electrical Training Alliance between IBEW and NECA. The Alliance electrical apprenticeships are formerly known as a JATC or Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee.
Some apprenticeships have not adopted the name change yet, which you may not see reflected in their name.
What you want to do first is choose an electrician apprenticeship closest to you.
If that school is no longer accepting applications or there is a massive wait, you should branch out to a surrounding apprenticeship.
Once you’ve located an apprenticeship head on over to our article on how to join an IBEW apprenticeship. You should find some useful information there.
Once you chose an apprenticeship and applied, here’s what you can expect to happen:
Applicants will be notified of a date to take the NJATC Aptitude Test. There is typically a test fee of around $25. The Test takes approximately 2½ hours to complete and consists of Algebra, Technical Mathematics, and Reading Comprehension. Applicants will be notified in writing of their test results. An applicant who does not pass the test may apply to re-test after 6 months have elapsed.
Applicants who pass the Aptitude Test will be scheduled for an in-person interview. Each applicant will be scored individually based upon their application, test result, and interview. The overall score will determine each applicant’s ranking in the pool of qualified candidates.
Applicants will be selected in order of their ranking. Prior to being indentured, each applicant will be required to provide satisfactory results of a physical examination and a drug test provided by the JATC.
14600 Catalina Street
San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-351-5282
Fax: 510-351-2949
Email: [email protected]
Program: Inside Wireman
Books Cost: $620.00 for the first year
Tools Cost: $500.00
The Alameda County Electrical JATC offers a 5 year program with 180 hours of classroom training each year for a total of 900 hours. Apprentices work during the day (paid employment) and attend classes during the day and evenings.
You must apply in person on your own behalf. California drivers license or other photo ID must be presented at time of application.
If you meet the qualifications then you’ll be scheduled to take a math and reading assessment exam known as the Aptitude Test. If you pass the aptitude test you’ll then be scheduled for an interview with the apprenticeship committee members.
9846 Limonite Avenue
Riverside, CA 92509
Phone: 951-685-8658
Fax: 951-685-9473
Programs: Lineman | Traffic
The California-Nevada JATC is dedicated to ensuring the outdoor electrical industry in both states is staffed with a robust workforce of highly skilled journey-level professionals.
Apprentice linemen assist the journeymen linemen in building and maintaining electrical power systems. The apprenticeship program at the California-Nevada JATC combines supervised, structured on-the-job training with related classroom instruction to prepare you for skilled employment within the industry.
For more in depth information about the application process, you can read that here.
A traffic signal technician builds and maintains traffic signal systems of all kinds. They must remain alert and be aware of the many hazards associated with the control of traffic flows during a temporary, emergency, and normal conditions.
For more in depth information about the application process, you can read that here.
1925 Yosemite Blvd.
Modesto, CA 95354
Phone: 209-579-5417
Fax: 209-521-0908
1255 Muir Road
Martinez, CA 94553
Phone: 925-372-7083
Fax: 925-372-7948
Program: Inside Wireman | Sound and Communications
2024 NOTICE: Applications for the Inside Wireman apprenticeship are not being accepted
If you need more information we suggest you call the JATC office directly.
Sound and Communications Apprenticeship JATC Brochure
5420 E. Hedges Avenue
Fresno, CA 93727
Phone: 559-251-5174
Fax: 559-251-0543
Program: Inside Wireman | Sound & Communications
This Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) will accept applications for apprenticeship from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm and from 1:00 pm until 4:30 pm every Wednesday, year round, excluding holidays.
Applications will only be accepted in person at the address listed above.
3805 N. Sillect Avenue
Bakersfield , CA 93308
Phone: 661-324-0105
Fax: 661-324-4121
Programs: Inside Wireman
The Kern County Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC) is currently accepting applications for the Inside Electrical Wireman Program. The Inside Electrical Wireman Program is a five year training program incorporating on-the-job training and supplemental classroom-related instruction.
1. Must be a minimum of 18 years of age at the time of application
2. Valid Driver’s license or other Government-issued Identification
3. OFFICIAL, SEALED HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT or GED Equivalency
4. OFFICIAL, SEALED TRANSCRIPT showing one of the following:
A. Two semesters of High School Algebra with a passing grade of “C” or better
B. One semester of College Algebra with a passing grade of “C” or better
C. Successful completion of the NJATC On-Line Tech Math Course
5. Must be able to read, write and speak the English language
Applicants meeting the basic requirements will be given an application that must be filled out IN PERSON Monday thru Friday 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the:
Electrical Apprenticeship School
3805 N. Sillect Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93308
For information click here.
ETI has put together a detailed FAQ for each program – click the links above.
ETI Online Application is now available!
Office Hours
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
ETI Staff
Brett Moss; Training Director – Extension 3001, eMail
Deon Mayes; Assistant Training Director – Extension 3014, eMail
Jaime Sanchez; Senior Instructor – Extension 3005, eMail
Steve Rose; Senior Instructor – Extension 3310, eMail
Jane Templin; Outreach Director – Extension 3004, eMail
Eric Brown; Coordinator/IBEW – Extension 2004, eMail
David Nott; Coordinator/NECA – Extension 3010, eMail
Please call the LA ETI staff regarding any questions or issues you may have, Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Very often our staff is available after hours, or you may leave a voice mail message to reach your party. Make the message detailed enough that a staff member can look up any pertinent information before returning your call.
5643 Vineland Avenue
North Hollywood , CA 91601
Phone: 818-762-4239
Fax: 818-762-4379
Program Inside Wireman | HVAC
There’s very limited information online regarding this apprenticeship program. I talked to the director and he stated that you need to check the website frequently for updates on when they will start accepting apprentices.
There is no downloadable information packet regarding their programs.
Here’s the enrollment info
Journeyman Wireman Enrollment: Spring of 2017
HVAC Enrollment: Winter of 2016
3033 Alvarado St.
San Leandro , CA 94577
Phone: 408-453-3101
Fax: 408-453-5822
To view the NorCal Sound and Communication Brochure click here.
The NorCal JATC Sound and Communication apprenticeship program, in partnership with IBEW/NECA, offers you an opportunity to forge a career in the sound and communication industry.
During the three-year program, you learn to install and service complex communications and data technology, through a rigorous program of related supplemental instruction and on-the-job training.
As an apprentice, you can “earn while you learn”. In addition to supplying an excellent livelihood, the sound and communication industry training program offers a community of support and camaraderie, as well as offering fulfilling challenges and opportunities.
Once you complete the program, you become an installer-technician with a starting income that averages $50,000 annually. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision care, as well as a pension plan. Many graduates earn in excess of $75,000 per year.
Inside Wireman
The Electrical Apprenticeship is a 5 year program
The starting wage is $14.82 per hour
Benefits include Health and Welfare and Pension Plans
Pay increases approximately 5-10% of Journeyman wage every 6-12 months
Sound and Communications
The Sound Installer Apprenticeship is a 3 year program
The starting wage is $14.09 per hour
Benefits include Health and Welfare and Pension Plans
Pay increases approximately 5-10% of sound Installer wage every 6 months
Intelligent Transportation Systems
The Transportation Apprenticeship is a 5 year program
The starting wage is $14.82 per hour
Benefits include Health and Welfare and Pension Plans
Pay increases approximately 5-10% of Journeyman wage every 6-12 months
1726 Corby Avenue
Santa Rosa , CA 95407
Phone: 707-523-3837
Fax: 707-523-3829
Programs: Inside Wireman | Sound and Communication
The Inside Electrical Apprenticeship is a five-year training program that consists of eight thousand hours of on-the-job training in addition to nine-hundred hours of classroom instruction held two separate weeks in the Fall semester and two separate weeks in the Spring semester, as well as 24 hours of “Study Hall”.
Apprentices are paid while they work and learn, with wages starting at forty percent of journeyman electrician wages and increasing five percent every six months, or one thousand hours worked.
Current starting pay is 40% of Journeyman’s pay, plus health benefits(medical, dental & vision) once the apprentice accumulates 500 hours worked. Apprentices are required to pay work assessment, which is 5% of their gross wage.
The Sound and Communication Apprenticeship is a three-year program that consists of six thousand hours of on-the-job training in addition to six hundred hours of related classroom instruction held one evening per week.
Current starting pay is 55% of Installer pay. In both apprenticeship programs, apprentices receive retirement and medical benefits while they train.
1855 Business Center Drive
San Bernardino , CA 92408
Phone: 909-890-1703
Fax: 909-890-1746
Applications are accepted in person only between 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. on the 1st working Monday of the month at: (NO APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED DURING THE MONTH OF JUNE)
2836 El Centro Road
Sacramento , CA 95833
Phone: 916-646-6688
Fax: 916-646-0170
Program: Inside Wireman
This Sacramento Area Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) accepts applications for an apprenticeship in person at the Training Center on Wednesdays between the hours of 8 – 11 a.m. and 1 – 4 p.m.
Official photo identification is required.
1855 Business Center Drive
San Bernardino , CA 92408
Phone: 909-890-1703
Fax: 909-890-1746
4675 Viewridge Avenue, Suite D
San Diego , CA 92123
Phone: 858-569-6633
Fax: 858-569-0624
Programs: Inside Wireman | Telecommunications
Download the application here
HOW TO APPLY: In Person: bring in your official documents and valid photo identification to the San Diego office 4675 Viewridge Avenue, San Diego CA 92123 or to the Imperial County office 2420 Imperial Business Park Drive, Imperial CA 92251. You can apply on any Wednesday between 2 PM-4 PM or by appointment.
4056 Mission Street
San Francisco , CA 94112
Phone: 415-587-2500
Fax: 415-585-4117
Program: Inside Wireman
HOW TO QUALIFY: Applications will be available: Thursdays on July 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th, 2024 between the hours of 1:00pm & 3:30pm.
Important: A GED & all diplomas are not proof of the math requirement IF documentation does not show “Algebra” or “Calculus” a syllabus/course description must be provided to prove the math taken is in fact “Algebra” or “Calculus”.
Requirements: Applicants must be at least 17 years of age on the date of filing an application, and 18 or older to be indentured. All applicants must apply in person with all 3 required documentations on the day of application at the above address. Applications must be completed and may not be taken off the premises (NO EXCEPTIONS>. Must be a U.S. Citizen or meet INS requirements.
The applicant will complete an application form, accurately responding to all questions and items including statements indicating that they are:
1. physically and mentally able to safely perform or learn to safely perform essential functions of the job either with or without reasonable accommodations.
2. able to get to and from work at job sites anywhere within the geographical area that this apprenticeship program covers.
3. able and willing to attend all related classroom training as required to complete their apprenticeship.
4. able to climb ladders, scaffolds, poles and towers of various heights.
5. able to crawl and work in confined spaces such as attics, manholes and crawlspaces.
6. able to read, hear and understand instructions and warnings.
1531 El Pinal Drive
Stockton , CA 95205
Phone: 209-462-0751
Fax: 209-462-1451
Program: Inside Wireman
Application Dates: April 20th, May 18th, June 15th, July 20th, August 17th
Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm Location: 1531 El Pinal Dr. Stockton, CA 95205
Be sure to bring: High School Diploma or GED Official Transcript of High School Algebra with a “C” or better or One semester of college algebra with a “C” or better Photo ID (Drivers license)
Must be physically able to perform work of the trade DMV printout
Other conditions: Transcripts and proofs must be submitted within two days of application. Normal insurability to operate employer-owned vehicles. Normal insurability is defined as the ability to secure insurance coverage without high-risk premiums or cancellations. Drug testing will be required before placement. Candidates will be required to sign a training contract repayment plan.
6363 Edna Road
San Luis Obispo , CA 93401
Phone: 805-543-5693
Fax: 805-544-3762
Program: Inside Wireman
We offer a five-year program that combines classroom and on-the-job learning. And, you earn while you learn, including benefits! At the successful completion of the program, you will graduate as a state-certified Journeyman Inside Wireman and be looking at a rewarding career future.
If you are interested in applying, you will need to gather a few documents before you come in to complete the initial application: High School Diploma or GED Certificate; High School Transcript showing a year of Algebra with a grade of “C” or better or a post-high school transcript showing an Algebra course with a grade of “C” or better; birth certificate; a government-issued photo ID; and the $30 application fee (cash or check only).
It takes about 30 minutes to complete the application and then you will be on the list to take the next scheduled aptitude test (math and reading comprehension). Candidates who pass this test will go on to interview with our Apprenticeship Committee.
Applications are available Monday-Friday, 8:30 am – noon and 1:00-4:30 pm.
Our office is located at the IBEW Hall, 6363 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 To learn more about the various electrical apprenticeships available through the IBEW, you can go to our national web site, www.njatc.org, or call our Training Director, Dan Miller at 805-543-5693 x12.
625 Industrial Road
San Carlos , CA 94070
Phone: 650-591-5217
Fax: 650-591-5219
Program:
Application and Process
Applications are available on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 10:00 AM sharp and must be filled out in person at the training center. Bring a valid California driver’s license to 625 Industrial Road, San Carlos. Additional information regarding the application process will be provided at that time. Here is a map to the training center.
Inside Wireman Testing & Interview Schedule
Aptitude testing is conducted twice a year in San Mateo County; once in the fall (September or October) & once in spring (February or March). Applications must be completed with all required documentation submitted in order to qualify for aptitude testing.
Interviews are also conducted twice a year in San Mateo County. If you obtain a qualifying score on the aptitude test, you will be scheduled for an oral interview. Each round of interviews is scheduled for approximately one month following aptitude testing.
In order to be considered for the apprenticeship class beginning in September, applicants need to have completed the application process prior to the spring testing/interview period.
Applications submitted or completed after the spring testing/interview period will be processed for the following year. Timing is everything. It is possible to apply in February and be selected for an apprenticeship in September, only seven months later. Missing the deadline for spring testing could result in a nineteen-month wait.
222 West Carmen Lane, Suite 105
Santa Maria , CA 93458
Phone: 805-686-0903
Fax: 805-686-0922
Program: Inside Wireman
Applications for Apprentice Electrician will be accepted on an ongoing basis at the following locations:
NECA OFFICE
222 West Carmen Lane, Suite 105, Santa Maria, CA 93458
Phone: (805) 348-1200 Fax: (805) 348-1203
Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m
IBEW Local 413
100 Thomas Road, Buellton, CA 93427 Phone: (805) 688-8083 Fax: (805) 688-7144Monday through Friday between 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
908 Bern Court, Suite 100
San Jose , CA 95112
Phone: 408-453-1022
Fax: 408-452-1784
Program: Inside Wireman | Residential | Sound & Communication
This is a five year apprenticeship program. The starting wage is $25.66/hr
The next application day is: Wednesday July 6, 2024 from 9:00am to 12:00pm
This is a 3-year apprenticeship program. The starting wage is $15.99/hr
Next application day is: April 28, 2024 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
The Sound and Communication apprenticeship program is part of the Northern California Sound and Comm JATC.
Starting wages will vary depending on your location.
720-A Technology Way
Napa , CA 94558
Phone: 707-251-0315
Fax: 707-251-0316
Program: Inside Wireman
At time of application:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS – MUST PROVIDE PROOF:
• At least 18 Years of Age (CA Drivers License, Birth Certificate or other Proof of Age)
• High School Graduation or G.E.D. (Valid Certificate or Diploma)
• Photo ID (ex: Valid-CA Drivers License)
• Proof of Algebra – Sealed (unopened) Official Transcript with One Full Year (2 semesters) of High School Algebra with passing grade = “C” or better. Pre-Algebra does NOT count.
• All Information MUST be presented in English when filing the application.
For any interpretation of foreign educational documents use available link: Academic & Prof. Intl. Eval.
QUALIFYING EXAMS:
• Applicants meeting minimum requirements and completing application will be notified and scheduled to take a 2-part aptitude examination, consisting of Reading Comprehension and Mathematics
• Applicants who pass the aptitude test will be notified and then scheduled for an ORAL INTERVIEW
• The combination score (written and oral interview) will place the applicant in the pool of eligible candidates
APPLICATIONS:
• Applications must be made in person and at our facility.
• Only individuals present at the application process with all required documents will be allowed to apply.
10300 Merritt Street
Castroville , CA 95012
Phone: 831-633-3063
Fax: 831-633-3068
Program: Inside Wireman
This is a five-year apprenticeship program. Apprentices work during the day and attend classes two nights per week. A journeyman certificate is awarded upon successful completion.
The Tri-County Electrical JATC accepts applications on a year-round basis. Applications are available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9-11 am and 1-4 pm at the JATC Office located at 10300 Merritt Street, Castroville, CA.
Next Aptitude Testing Date: Saturday, August 6, 2016
Deadline to apply: Thursday, July 7, 2016
201 Bernoulli Circle, Unit A
Oxnard , CA 93030
Phone: 805-604-1155
Fax: 805-604-1166
Program: Inside Wireman
Availability: Applications are accepted on most Tuesday afternoons, beginning August 18, 2024 and ending April 26, 2024 . Check this website each Tuesday morning to verify the office will be accepting applications.
Applications will be accepted on Tuesday, April 12th, April 19th, and April 26th, between the hours of 2:00-4:00pm .
Applicants must report in person to our training center located at 201 Bernoulli Circle, Unit A, Oxnard, CA 93030 with all of the required documents listed below.
In order to apply for the general journeyman electrician license, you will have to provide proof of “successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience”.
To apply for the license you must fill out this application according to these application guidelines.
Once your application is accepted you can schedule your exam.
The application fee is $175 (This amount is paid and not refundable, whether your application is approved or not.)
This fee can be paid either by cash accompanied by the application or by check (also accompanied by the application) payable to:
DIR-Electrician Certification Fund
P. O. Box 420603,
San Francisco, CA 94142
Once your application is approved you will be forwarded to a testing vendor and a packet will be sent to you with the information you will need for the exams.
The test consist of 100 questions and you’ll have 4 hours to take it. More information for the exam can be found in the FAQ.
Continuing Education
After you pass the exam your license will need to be renewed every three years through continuing education.
Providers for continuing education credit can be found here.
Here is the renewal application you will have to fill.
You can find more information in the FAQ.
(1) performs work for a C-10 electrical contractor installing, constructing, or maintaining any electrical system that is covered by the National Electrical Code in single family homes and multi family units, including hotels and motels, where the primary occupancy of the building is considered residential and the maximum voltage received from a utility company is a 3 phase, 4 wire, 120/208 or 120/240 volts.
(2) performs work for a C-10 electrical contractor installing the required panel boards and feeders for commercial tenant space in a multi-family/multi-use occupancies falling under subsection (1) above, where less than 50 percent of the first floor level is used for commercial tenant space, but not performing any tenant improvement for these spaces.
(3) does not perform work in occupancies that fall under the scope of Article 517 of the National Electrical Code.
In order to apply for the residential journeyman electrician license, you will have to provide proof of successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience.
To apply for the license you must fill out this application according to these application guidelines. Once your application is accepted you can schedule your exam.
The application fee is $175 (This amount is paid and not refundable, whether your application is approved or not.)
This fee can be paid either by cash accompanied by the application or by check (also accompanied by the application) payable to:
DIR-Electrician Certification Fund
P. O. Box 420603,
San Francisco, CA 94142
Once your application is approved you will be forwarded to a testing vendor and a packet will be sent to you with the information you will need for the exams.
The test consists of 80 questions and you’ll have 3 hours to take it. More information for the exam can be found in the FAQ.
Continuing Education
After you pass the exam your license will need to be renewed every three years through continuing education.
Providers for continuing education credit can be found here.
This is the renewal application you will have to fill.
You can check the FAQ for more information.
A Fire/Life Safety Technician is one who:
performs work for an electrical contractor involving the installation, construction or maintenance of systems as covered in the National Electrical Code (Article 760) and the National Fire Alarm Code.
In order to apply for the fire/life safety technician license, you will have to provide proof of successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience.
The experience requirement for Fire/Life Safety Technician may also be satisfied by proof of NICET certification in Fire Alarm Systems at Level II or above.
Fill this application according to these application guidelines. Please note, that you will have to apply for the license and only after your application is accepted, you may take the exam.
The cost of the application is $175.00. This amount is paid and not refundable, whether your application is approved or not. This fee can be paid either by cash accompanied by the application or by check (also accompanied by the application) payable to:
DIR-Electrician Certification Fund
P. O. Box 420603,
San Francisco, CA 94142
After your approval, you will be forwarded to their testing vendor and you will be sent the information you will need for the exams, among other things.
The test consists of 50 questions and you’ll have 3 hours to take it. More information for the exam can be found in the FAQ.
After you pass the exam and receive your license, you will be subject to Continuing Education. These are the providers.
Here is the renewal application you will have to fill out.
You can find more information in the FAQ.
A Voice Data Video Technician is one who:
performs work for an electrical contractor installing, constructing or maintaining any system that falls within the scope of the National Electrical Code, Articles 725, 770, (non-composite cables only), 800 (non-hybrid cables only), 810 and 820.
In order to apply for the Voice, Data, Video technician license you will have to provide proof of successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience.
To apply for the license you must fill out this application according to these application guidelines. Once your application is accepted you can schedule your exam.
The application fee is $175.00 (This amount is paid and not refundable, whether your application is approved or not)
This fee can be paid either by cash accompanied by the application or by check (also accompanied by the application) payable to:
DIR-Electrician Certification Fund
P. O. Box 420603,
San Francisco, CA 94142
Once your application is approved your information will be forwarded to a testing vendor and a packet will be sent to you with the information you will need for the exams.
The test consists of 50 questions and you’ll have 2 hours to take it. More information for the exam can be found in the FAQ.
Continuing Education
After you pass the exam your license will need to be renewed every three years through continuing education.
Providers for continuing education can be found here.
This is the renewal application you will have to fill.
You can find more information in the FAQ.
A Non-Residential Lighting Technician is one who:
performs work for an electrical contractor repairing, servicing and maintaining existing non-residential lighting fixtures and installing retrofit upgrade fixtures. Such work does not include the installation of branch circuits or the alteration of existing branch circuits except a technician may reconnect to existing power within 3 feet.
In order to apply for the non-residential lighting technician license, you will have to provide proof of successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or proof of your experience.
To apply for the license you must fill out this application according to these application guidelines.
Once your application is accepted you can schedule your exam.
The application fee is $175.00. (This amount is paid and not refundable, whether your application is approved or not.)
This fee can be paid either by cash accompanied by the application or by check (also accompanied by the application) payable to:
DIR-Electrician Certification Fund
P. O. Box 420603,
San Francisco, CA 94142
Once your application is approved you will be forwarded to a testing vendor and a packet will be sent to you with the information you will need for the exams.
The test consists of 50 questions and you’ll have 2 hours to take it. More information for the exam can be found in the FAQ.
Continuing Education
After you pass the exam your license must be renewed every three years.
Providers for continuing education credit can be found here.
Here is the renewal application you will have to fill.
You can check the FAQ for more information.