CA School Directory
Browse 23 accredited trade schools and vocational training programs in California
23
Schools
11
Cities
14
Trade Programs
California has the largest community college system in the country (116 colleges) and the lowest published in-state tuition — making it one of the most affordable places in the U.S. to train for a skilled trade. The system is anchored by Los Angeles Trade Technical College, San Diego City College, City College of San Francisco, and a deep network of regional career and technical education (CTE) campuses, supplemented by union apprenticeships and private career colleges like UEI College and Universal Technical Institute.
California's trade economy is shaped by three forces: massive infrastructure (high-speed rail, Caltrans, port and water systems), the housing/rebuild market driven by wildfire reconstruction and the chronic housing shortage, and a fast-growing clean-energy sector (solar installation, EV charging, battery storage). Demand for electricians, HVAC techs, and solar installers is strong statewide; CDL drivers serving the Ports of LA/Long Beach earn some of the best drayage rates in the country.
Based on hiring activity, employer demand, and program enrollment in CA.
Strong IBEW Local 11 (LA) and Local 6 (SF) pipelines plus statewide solar/EV electrification work
High residential and commercial demand across SoCal and the Central Valley
Port of LA / Long Beach drayage and statewide freight volume
Highest plumber wages in the U.S., especially in the Bay Area
Kaiser, Sutter, Cedars-Sinai, and Dignity Health drive sustained MA hiring
Typical range
$1,500–$22,000
Total tuition
Listed school avg.
$16,736
Across 23 schools
Schools listed
23
In 11 cities
See our full trade school cost guide for state-by-state breakdowns and a deeper look at how to fund your training.
Trade licensing in CA varies by program. Here's what you'll typically need to legally work in each field after training:
| Trade | CA Requirement |
|---|---|
| Electrician | CSLB C-10 contractor license + state-issued Electrician Certification (General, Residential, Fire/Life Safety, etc.) |
| Plumber | CSLB C-36 plumbing contractor license; journeyman certification through union or CDIR-approved program |
| HVAC Technician | CSLB C-20 contractor license; EPA 608 federally required for refrigerant work |
| CDL | Class A/B issued by California DMV; ELDT-compliant training required since Feb 2022 |
| Cosmetology | 1,000 hours + California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology exam |
| Vet Tech | RVT credential through California Veterinary Medical Board after passing the VTNE |
Public community college tuition in California is approximately $46 per unit, making most trade diplomas total under $3,000 in tuition — among the lowest in the country. The California College Promise Grant waives fees entirely for eligible residents. Private trade schools run $12,000-$22,000.
No — they're separate programs. The California College Promise Grant (formerly BOG Fee Waiver) waives community college enrollment fees for eligible residents. Cal Grant is broader need- or merit-based aid that can be used at community colleges, CSUs, UCs, and many private and career schools.
Los Angeles Trade Technical College, San Diego City College, and City College of San Francisco all run well-regarded electrical programs at low cost. The IBEW NECA apprenticeship in LA and the Bay Area pays you to learn over 5 years and is one of the strongest training pathways anywhere in the country.
Most accredited California community colleges and approved private trade schools accept the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE) maintains the official list of approved programs.
4021 Rosewood Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004
$28,000
1,800 students
1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754
$2,800
35,000 students
400 West Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015
$1,238
12,655 students
6055 Pacific Boulevard, Huntington Park, CA 90255
$17,000
900 students
4700 College Oak Drive, Sacramento, CA 95841
$3,000
32,000 students
8909 Folsom Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95826
$22,000
1,200 students
8401 Center Parkway, Sacramento, CA 95823
$2,500
14,000 students
5231 Madison Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95841
$19,500
250 students
3835 Freeport Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95822
$2,800
23,000 students
4100 Duckhorn Dr, Sacramento, CA 95834
$45,390
1,214 students
4393 Imperial Avenue, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92113
$24,000
800 students
1313 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101
$2,800
17,000 students
4343 Ocean View Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92113
$0
35,000 students
780 Bay Boulevard, Suite 101, Chula Vista, CA 91910
$20,000
700 students
1261 3rd Avenue, Suite A, Chula Vista, CA 91911
$20,000
800 students
With 23 options to compare, choosing the right trade school takes some research. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating programs in CA: