Electrician Trainee Program
Overview
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
-
A Certified Journeyman Electrician
-
An Indentured Apprentice in a state-approved apprenticeship program
-
A Registered Electrician Trainee (ET) with the state of California
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.
-
Apply to American River College through the standard admissions process.
-
Register for ELTRN 110, the foundational course in the Electrician Trainee sequence.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Dean Gary Aguilar
- Department Chair Ocean Tran
- HomeBase Manufacturing, Construction, and Transportation HomeBase
- Phone (916) 484-8588
- Email MCT@arc.losrios.edu