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Home Academics Programs and Majors Electrician Trainee Program

Electrician Trainee Program

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Overview

Group of people wearing hard hats and reviewing blue prints

This program provides instruction in the installation, operation, and maintenance of residential and commercial electrical distribution systems. Topics include safety training, AC/DC electrical theory, metering, electronics, use of electrical codes, raceways, conductors, grounding, motors, transformers, fire alarm systems, fiber optics, and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. It complies with state regulations to become an electrician trainee – see the California Department of Industrial Relations' electrician trainee guide. Upon completion of the program, students may find employment in the following industry sectors: government, residential and commercial construction and maintenance, utilities, and facilities management.

Electrician Trainee Program Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference Between an Apprentice and an Electrician Trainee?
An Electrician Apprentice is someone officially enrolled—or indentured—in a state- or federally-approved apprenticeship program and is actively working toward becoming a certified journeyman electrician.
An Electrician Trainee (ET) is someone who is also working toward becoming a certified electrician but is not currently indentured in a state-approved apprenticeship program.
In California, the Electrician Certification Law is very clear: if you're performing electrical work in the field for a C-10 licensed electrical contractor, you must fall into one of the following three categories:
  1. A Certified Journeyman Electrician
  2. An Indentured Apprentice in a state-approved apprenticeship program
  3. A Registered Electrician Trainee (ET) with the state of California
If you're doing electrical work and do not meet one of these classifications, both you and your employer are in violation of state law. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) can issue fines, penalties, and even suspend the contractor's license for non-compliance.
To be in compliance as an Electrician Trainee, it's not enough just to register with the state. Trainees must also be actively enrolled in and attending classes at a state-approved school or training provider—such as American River College. This ensures you're gaining both the technical knowledge and supervised, hands-on experience required to eventually become certified.

Does American River College Offer an Electrician Trainee Program?

Yes. American River College (ARC) offers a state-approved Electrician Trainee program, not an apprenticeship program. This program is designed for individuals who are interested in becoming electricians but are not yet indentured in a formal apprenticeship.
As a training provider recognized by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), ARC equips students with both classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience that meet the state's requirements for registered Electrician Trainees.

Does American River College Offer an Electrician Apprenticeship Program?
No. ARC does not offer a state- or federally-registered electrician apprenticeship program.
However, ARC maintains a strong partnership with IBEW Local 340, the local electricians' union that operates one of the most respected apprenticeship programs in the region. While ARC does not directly enroll students into this apprenticeship, the training offered at ARC can strengthen your application and help you prepare for the competitive entry process.
 
Electricians Union
2836 El Centro Rd.
Sacramento, CA 95833
Telephone: (916) 646-6688

How Do You Enroll in the Electrician Trainee Program?
To enroll in the program:
  1. Apply to American River College through the standard admissions process.
  2. Register for ELTRN 110, the foundational course in the Electrician Trainee sequence.

How Long Is the Program?

The program takes approximately 3 to 5 years to complete if you take one class per semester, which is the standard pace due to the course rotation.

While this may seem like a long commitment, the schedule is intentionally designed to be manageable for working students. Most classes are held one day per week on the weekend, allowing students to continue working in the field as Electrician Trainees. This way, you're gaining valuable hands-on experience and earning credit toward the hours required to become a certified electrician—all while completing your coursework.

Can I Enroll in Multiple Classes at Once?

No. To ensure quality instruction and adequate hands-on time for each student, you may only enroll in one ELTRN course per semester.
You'll need to begin with ELTRN 110. After passing it, you'll take ELTRN 111, which must be taken in order. After completing ELTRN 111, you may take the remaining ELTRN courses in any order based on availability and rotation.

When Are Classes Offered at American River College?

Classes are typically held one day per weekend—either Saturday or Sunday, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. This schedule is designed for working adults or those with weekday obligations. Be sure to check the current class schedule each semester, as exact days may vary depending on instructor availability and enrollment.

What Is the Average Cost of the Program?

The estimated total cost is around $2,500 if you're paying out of pocket. This includes tuition, textbooks, tools, and parking fees.
However, financial aid is available and can significantly reduce or even fully cover your costs. We strongly encourage all students to apply for financial aid—even if you think you may not qualify. There are grants, fee waivers, and other resources that could support you.
If you need assistance with the application process, the Financial Aid Office at ARC is here to help.