Applying for the Electrician Trainee (ET) Card

Anyone who performs electrical work for a C-10 licensed contractor in California must be certified or registered by the State. This includes certified electricians, registered apprentices, and electrical trainees.

By enrolling in the California Electrical Training (CET) program, students become eligible to apply as Electrical Trainees (ET) with the State of California.

Students must register as an Electrician Trainee within 30 days of enrollment in the CET program.

Steps to Apply for Your Electrician Trainee Card

  1. Step 1 – Enroll in CET’s ET Program

    After enrolling, CET will send you two important documents: an Enrollment Letter and the State of California Electrician Trainee Registration Form.

  2. Step 2 – Complete the Registration Form

    Print and fill out the Registration Form completely. Remember to include CET’s school number: 151.

  3. Step 3 – Submit Your Application to the State

    Mail the following items to the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR):

    • The completed Registration Form
    • Your CET Enrollment Letter
    • A check or money order for the State’s $25 registration fee

    The DIR’s mailing address is included on the registration form.

  4. Step 4 – Receive Your State-Registered ET Card

    Once the State processes your application, you will receive an official letter and your Electrician Trainee (ET) Card. This process usually takes about 4–6 weeks from the date you mailed your application.

Need Help or Have Questions?

If you have questions about your Electrician Trainee (ET) card status or renewal, you can contact the State’s Electrician Certification Unit using the information below:

Department of Industrial Relations
Division of Labor Standards Enforcement
Attn: Electrician Certification Unit

PO Box 420603
San Francisco, CA 94142-0603
Phone: (510) 286-3900
Fax: (510) 286-3917
Email: ecuinfo@dir.ca.gov