You must be at least 16 years old. A high school diploma or GED is required by union apprenticeship programs. Many apprenticeships also require qualification exams. To prepare for and pass these, you may need academic assistance. Talk to your guidance counselor or the administrator of the apprenticeship program that interests you for help preparing for these exams.
Some apprenticeships demand a great deal of physical strength and stamina.
An apprenticeship sponsor can consider physical ability if the ability is necessary to perform the job. If you are a candidate for an apprenticeship, you will undergo an interview with the administrative group representing the apprenticeship sponsor or the Joint Apprenticeship Council. The interviewers look at educational, physical and other factors, as well as the your commitment to finishing the training. The interview committee ranks you in these areas and places you on a waiting list. The length of wait for a position varies according to your ranking, the availability of positions and even the current economic conditions.