Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much will I make?
A: Pay starts at approx. $19/hour. Every 6 months (providing you are
working and attending school) you will receive a raise of approx
$1.50-$2.00/hour.
Q: How much will I be making when I
become a Journeyman?
A: Over $39/hour
Q: How much does it cost?
A: There is no cost to take the exam. Once in the program you will
have Union Dues (approx. $30/month) and Initiation Fees (approx.
$75/year). There is also a charge of $25/year for school.
Q: When do I go to school?
A: You will go to school either on Monday/Wednesday or
Tuesday/Thursday nights. You will NOT have an option of which days
you will attend- it is already pre-determined. The school semester
is from August -December and January - May.
Q: What if I can't
find my high school diploma?
A: We will accept a transcript from your high school as long as it
has your graduation date on there.
Q: I went to high
school in a foreign country, and my diploma is not in English, can I
still take the exam?
A: If we can determine that your diploma is in fact a diploma then
you may still take the entrance exam; otherwise you will need to
have your diploma translated into English and notarized.
Q: I am currently attending a non-union school for plumbing. Can my classes I have taken there be transferred to your school?
A: Once you find an employer you have 30 days to file for credit for previous classes. The decision will up to the Joint Apprenticeship Committee.
Q: If I fail the entrance exam, can I retake it?
A: You may retake the entrance ONCE. If you fail the first time, you will need to obtain a tutor (can be ANYONE) or take a math class at a Junior College.
If you take a math class, you will need to bring in a transcript verifying you received a "C" or better. You will still need to take the exam again.
Q: Do I need a Drivers' License to get into the program?
A: It is to your best advantage to have a Drivers' License to get into the program, but you don't need one. You will need a Government Issued Photo ID to take the exam. It does not need to be from California
Q: Can I get into the program if I have a criminal past?
A: Your past is between you and your employer. However you may be asked to do a background check for a particular job.