Apprenticeships and Hands-On Training: How They Work

If you learn best by doing, or you cannot afford to stop earning while you train, an apprenticeship may be worth exploring. Apprenticeships have a long history in the skilled trades, and they are now available in many other fields as well.

What is a registered apprenticeship?

A registered apprenticeship is a program approved by the U.S. Department of Labor or a state apprenticeship agency. It typically includes:

• Paid on-the-job learning under experienced workers, with wages that usually increase as your skills grow
• Related classroom instruction, often through a community college, union training center or employer
• Mentorship from a skilled professional
• A nationally recognized credential at the end, showing you are fully trained in the occupation

Programs usually last one to five years, depending on the occupation. Apprenticeship.gov is the official source of information.

Fields that offer apprenticeships

Construction and skilled trades: electricians, plumbers, pipefitters, carpenters, HVAC technicians, ironworkers, sheet metal workers, bricklayers, elevator mechanics.

Manufacturing: machinists, welders, industrial maintenance mechanics, CNC operators.

Healthcare: medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, nursing assistants, dental assistants, community health workers.

Information technology: IT support specialists, network technicians, cybersecurity support, software developers.

Transportation: commercial truck drivers, diesel mechanics, aircraft maintenance.

Other fields: early childhood education, culinary arts, insurance, banking, utilities and more.

Pre-apprenticeship programs

If you do not yet meet the requirements for an apprenticeship, a pre-apprenticeship program can help. These shorter programs typically teach:

• Basic math, reading and safety skills used in the field
• Hands-on introductions to tools and equipment
• Workplace expectations and teamwork
• Help applying to registered apprenticeships

Many are offered through community organizations, workforce centers and community colleges, often at low or no cost.

Common requirements

Requirements vary by program, but many ask for:

Requirement	Details
Age	Usually 18 or older; some programs accept 16–17
Education	High school diploma or equivalent is common
Math skills	Some trades require a basic algebra or aptitude test
Physical ability	Ability to perform the physical tasks of the job safely
Driver’s license	Required in trades with travel between job sites
Drug screening	Common in construction and transportation

Read each program’s requirements carefully. Some accept applications only at certain times of year.

How to find a program

1. Search Apprenticeship.gov. The site lets you search by occupation and location, and explains each program.
2. Visit an American Job Center. Staff can tell you about local programs and pre-apprenticeship options. Find one with the American Job Center locator.
3. Contact union training centers. Many building trades unions run apprenticeship programs.
4. Ask employers directly. Larger manufacturers, hospitals and utilities sometimes run their own programs.
5. Check community colleges. Many partner with employers to provide the classroom portion.

Preparing to apply

• Brush up on math. Free resources through your library or online can help you prepare for aptitude tests.
• Get relevant certifications if the program values them, such as OSHA safety training or CPR.
• Gather documents: diploma or equivalent, ID, driver’s license if required.
• Prepare for an interview. Programs want to see reliability, safety awareness and willingness to learn. Our guide to preparing for a job interview applies here too.
• Show your interest. Hobbies like repairing cars or building things are worth mentioning.

What to expect once you start

Apprenticeships are demanding. You will balance work and classes, often start early, and learn under close supervision. In return, you gain practical skills, a credential, and a clear progression. Wages typically rise as you complete each stage.

Ask each program about the wage schedule, training hours, class times and any costs for tools or books before you commit.

Questions to ask a program before you commit

• How many hours of on-the-job learning and classroom instruction are required each year?
• What is the starting wage, and how often does it increase?
• When and where are classes held, and is class time paid?
• Are there costs for tools, books, uniforms or exams?
• What percentage of apprentices complete the program?
• What credential will you hold at the end, and is it recognized in other states?

Write the answers down for each program you consider. Comparing them side by side makes the decision much clearer, and asking these questions shows a program that you are serious.

Is an apprenticeship right for you?

An apprenticeship may be a good fit if you:

• Prefer learning by doing
• Need to earn while you train
• Want a clear, structured path
• Are comfortable committing to a multi-year program

If you are still deciding on a field, our guide to choosing a career path that fits your skills can help, and the Skilled Trades career path describes common roles. For more learning options, see free and low-cost career development.