How to Apply for Your Electrician Trainee (ET) Card in California

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 paying for your first Training Quarter in full, CET will send you two important documents: an Enrollment Letter and the State of California Electrician Trainee Registration Form. If you use monthly payments, these documents will be sent once you complete your third monthly payment. Learn more about CET's Electrician Trainee Program.

2. Step 2 – Complete the Registration Form

   Print and fill out the Registration Form completely. Remember to include CET's school number: 151 (CET is a DIR-approved electrician training school).

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.

Once you have your ET card, you'll need to renew it annually until you pass the state certification exam. Curious about the difference between the ET card and full certification? Read our ET Card vs. Electrician Certification guide.