Registered Apprenticeship FAQs

Registered Apprenticeship (RA) is a proven, cost-effective system for training employees in a variety of occupations that require a wide range of skills and knowledge; it is an ideal way for employers to build and maintain a skilled workforce. Registered Apprenticeship combines supervised on-the-job training with Related Technical Instruction (RTI) specific to the apprentice’s chosen occupation.  

For a full and accurate listing of apprenticeable occupations, please visit the United States Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Apprenticeship. 

Upon the successful completion of a Registered Apprenticeship, the registered apprentice is considered a Journeyworker. A registered apprentice who completes both on-the-job training and the related technical instruction is given a Journeyworker’s Completion certificate and a Journeyworker’s Card. A Journeyworker’s credential is a national credential, portable to all 50 states and in some cases, internationally.  

Apprentices become taxpayers on day one. Strong apprenticeship programs help to keep youth in their rural communities. Strong programs send a strong message to those looking at Virginia for economic development expansion or relocation that we have an able workforce and a robust employment training model in Registered Apprenticeship. 

A Registered Apprentice can be anyone 16 years or older, authorized to work and who is hired or already employed in an apprenticeable occupation with a Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor. Restrictions may apply to individuals under the age of 18 in certain occupations; consultants are available to determine compliance in these employment situations. There is no maximum age in which to start an apprenticeship. 

Registered Apprentices must be paid at least State or Federal Minimum Wage, whichever is higher, and paid according to a progressive wage scale determined by the employer. Once an apprentice completes their program and earns Journeyworker status, wages vary by employer, industry and market factors. 

As a potential apprentice, you need to conduct a job search and locate potential employers. On our website you can find a Listing of Employers looking to hire apprentices in various fields. For additional resources, you may visit the Virginia Workforce Connection. Private job websites such as Monster, Zip Recruiter and Indeed are also available. The Division of Registered Apprenticeship regulates and oversees Registered Apprenticeship but does not serve as a job placement agency.  

Yes, if the occupation and your employer meet Registered Apprenticeship criteria. Please contact a Registered Apprenticeship Consultant in your area. You can find your local Registered Apprenticeship Consultant’s contact information here. 

There is no cost to be a participant in Registered Apprenticeship. An employer/sponsor may require tools, uniforms and materials related to the apprenticeship. Additionally, the registered apprentice may have to pay for the cost of related technical instruction (RTI); this will be discussed with your employer.  

RTI is a theory that corresponds to the apprenticeship occupation. RTI is chosen by the employer and approved by DOLI. Online instruction may be available as well as traditional classroom styled delivery. The employer/sponsor has the choice to pay the full cost of RTI, share the cost with the apprentice, or have the apprentice cover the full cost of RTI. Workforce Development Centers may be able to assist individuals with the cost of RTI. 

Consult with your employer as they may have an incentive program in place. The Division of Registered Apprenticeship does not have a reimbursement program.  

Please visit O*NET OnLine for in depth career exploration and MyNextMove for an interest profile quiz to help you decide what kinds of careers you might want to explore.  

Employer/Sponsors, in conjunction with RA Consultants, will determine how many On-the-Job Training hours you may be awarded towards your program based on prior experience. 

Contact your Registered Apprenticeship Consultant and make them aware of this. They will discuss options with you.  

If you are eligible, your GI Bill benefits can provide a monthly housing allowance and stipend for books and supplies in addition to your registered apprenticeship wages. Your RA Consultant can connect you with your Virginia Department of Veterans Services Representative for information, or you may visit their website here. Credits2Careers translates your military service into college credits to give you a head-start on your degree – saving you time and money. For more information visit their website here.  

This will be determined on a case-by-case basis with your employer. Our Registered Apprenticeship Consultants may be able to assist with guidance regarding your transcripts for review. We suggest if you are a Veteran, that you contact the Department of Veterans Services for information on maximizing your benefits. 

Find the Registered Apprenticeship Consultant in your area here. 

A Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor is an employer, business, or association operating a Registered Apprenticeship Program. Each program is administered by the sponsor and registered in the sponsor’s name.   

Registered Apprenticeship consultants provide free registration and personalized program development services. RA’s mentorship model lets you clone your best employee and create a clear pathway and career growth for employees. RA boosts retention and fosters loyalty. Successful completion of the RA Program earns the apprentice nationally recognized certification as a Journeyworker.    

There is no cost to be a Sponsor of Registered Apprenticeship; this is a voluntary, state sponsored program. 

Related Technical Instruction (RTI) is the theory that corresponds to the apprenticeship occupation. RTI may be provided by high schools, career and technical education centers, local community colleges, universities, associations, private instruction, providers, or sponsors. Online instruction may be available as well as traditional classroom styled delivery. Theory options are evolving as technology and business needs change. Education Specialists will work to help meet the needs of your company and industry. 

Yes. Although full-time work is preferred, speak with your Registered Apprenticeship Consultant to make sure all requirements will be met. The term for completion will be extended as needed.  

No. While many union programs do run Registered Apprenticeship programs in Virginia, most of the sponsors are private companies. The Department urges all employers: union, private, state, and local government, to take a new look at Registered Apprenticeships. It is an employment training model that delivers results. 

Contact your local Registered Apprenticeship Consultant. Your consultant will come to your place of business and explain the details of the program and help you with the steps to becoming a sponsor. Find your Registered Apprenticeship Consultant here.