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Registered Apprenticeships are like real jobs. They are a way to learn a special skill while getting paid to work. You learn from experienced workers and also take classes related to your job. It's a great way to become skilled in a specific occupation!

Benefits of a Registered Apprenticeship

In a Registered Apprenticeship, you start working and earning money while you learn important skills. You can also get qualifications that meet the industry standards.

Here are some benefits of being in a Registered Apprenticeship:

  • You get paid from the first day you start working, and your pay increases as you learn more skills.
  • You learn by doing real work in different fields, like healthcare, construction, information technology and others. 
  • You can earn college credit toward an associate's or bachelor's degree while you're in the program.
  • After finishing the apprenticeship, you'll have a career with a good salary and maybe no educational debt.
  • When you successfully finish the program, you'll earn a national certification that's accepted by companies all over the USA.

Eligibility

In Registered Apprenticeship programs, employers that sponsor the program decide what qualifications applicants should have. They set the minimum requirements and any extra skills or experiences the apprentices might need.

Minimum Qualifications

To join a Registered Apprenticeship program, you need to:

  • Be at least 16 years old, but for some dangerous jobs, you might need to be 18.
  • Have finished high school or have a diploma equivalent, but each program might ask for different things.
  • For certain programs, you may need to be physically strong and have good endurance.

Additional Qualifications

Everyone who applies needs to meet the minimum requirements. But some programs might ask for more things, such as:

  • Doing well on aptitude tests
  • Having good grades from high school or college
  • Having some work experience from before

Become a Registered Apprentice

  1. Find a program: First, decide on the trade or job you want to do. Then, talk to the people who can help you become an apprentice. In Texas, there are many types of Registered Apprenticeships, like construction, healthcare and manufacturing. If you're not sure what career to choose, you can explore different options at MyNextMove. If you already know, you can find Registered Apprenticeship opportunities in your area in the Apprenticeship Finder.
     
  2. Contact the program: Once you know the occupation you want, get in touch with the training program. Ask them about their application requirements and qualifications, and when they are hiring.
     
  3. Apply with the program: Submit your application to the training program you choose. Keep in mind that each program might have different requirements, so do your research carefully.
     
  4. Sign your training agreement: If the program hires you as an apprentice, you and your employer will complete an Apprentice Agreement. The training program will then file this agreement with the US Department of Labor (DOL). The agreement covers details like your training plan and how your pay will increase as you learn. It makes you an official registered apprentice.
     
  5. Complete your Registered Apprenticeship training: You'll work with experienced craft workers to learn the skills of the trade. You'll also attend classroom instruction, usually in the evenings, decided by your employer and the training program. When you finish your Registered Apprenticeship, you'll earn a certificate recognized by DOL.

Additional Resources

There are many resources to help people like apprentices, veterans and people with disabilities. For information about training help, services or other job opportunities, contact your local Workforce Solutions office.

To find the nearest office and services, check the Directory of Workforce Solutions Offices & Services.