Apprenticeship Apply Online: NAPS Portal Registration Guide

What is Apprenticeship in India?

An apprenticeship is a structured training program where candidates learn a trade or skill by working in an actual industry or establishment. In India, apprenticeships are governed by the Apprentices Act, 1961 and promoted through the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS).

The government's portal apprenticeshipindia.gov.in serves as the single-window platform for candidates to find apprenticeship opportunities and for employers to register and hire apprentices.

Apprenticeships are classified into:

Who is Eligible?

For Candidates

• Age: Minimum 14 years (varies by trade; most require 16+)
• Education: Minimum 8th pass (varies by trade — ITI, diploma, or degree for higher categories)
• Nationality: Indian citizen
• No upper age limit specified for most trades (some employers may set limits)
• Must not have undergone apprenticeship training in the same trade earlier

For Employers

• Any establishment with 4 or more workers (including contract workers) is required to engage apprentices
• Government departments, public sector undertakings, and private companies are all eligible
• Must be registered on the apprenticeshipindia.gov.in portal

Stipend Details

The government prescribes minimum stipend rates for apprentices:

NAPS Benefit: Under NAPS, the government shares 25% of the prescribed stipend (up to ₹1,500 per month per apprentice) directly with the employer, incentivizing companies to hire more apprentices.

How to Apply for Apprenticeship Online (Candidate)

Step 1 — Register on the Portal

1. Visit apprenticeshipindia.gov.in
2. Click on "Candidate" → "Register"
3. Enter your details — name, date of birth, mobile number, email
4. Create a username and password
5. Verify your mobile number via OTP

Step 2 — Complete Your Profile

1. Log in with your credentials
2. Fill in your educational qualifications (class passed, ITI/diploma/degree details)
3. Upload scanned documents:
   • Passport-size photo
   • Aadhaar card
   • Educational certificates (marksheets)
   • Caste certificate (if applicable, for SC/ST/OBC scholarships)
4. Select your preferred trade(s) and location(s)
5. Save your profile

Step 3 — Search and Apply for Apprenticeships

1. Go to "Search Apprenticeship" from the dashboard
2. Filter by state, district, sector, trade, and establishment type
3. Browse available apprenticeship opportunities
4. Click "Apply" on the desired opportunity
5. Your application will be sent to the employer for review

Step 4 — Contract Verification

1. If selected, the employer will initiate an apprenticeship contract
2. You will receive a notification to verify and accept the contract
3. The contract is then sent to the Regional Directorate of Apprenticeship Training (RDAT) or State Apprenticeship Advisor (SAA) for approval
4. Once approved, your apprenticeship officially begins

How to Register as an Employer

1. Visit apprenticeshipindia.gov.in
2. Click "Establishment" → "Register"
3. Enter establishment details — name, type, GSTIN/PAN, address
4. Provide details of total workforce
5. Upload supporting documents (registration certificate, PAN)
6. After registration, post apprenticeship opportunities specifying trade, seats, duration, and stipend
7. Review candidate applications and initiate contracts

Eligible Trades

Apprenticeships are available in 200+ designated trades and optional trades. Major categories include:

Manufacturing & Engineering

• Fitter, Turner, Machinist, Welder
• Electrician, Wireman
• Mechanic (Motor Vehicle, Diesel, Refrigeration)
• Electronics Mechanic

IT & Services

• Computer Operator (COPA)
• Information Technology
• Data Entry Operator
• Desktop Publishing

Construction & Building

• Mason, Plumber, Painter
• Carpenter, Sheet Metal Worker

Healthcare

• Health Sanitary Inspector
• Physiotherapy Technician

Hospitality

• Food Production, Bakery
• Front Office Assistant

Full list: Check the complete list of designated trades at dgt.gov.in under the Apprenticeship section.

Duration of Apprenticeship

• The exact duration depends on the specific trade and curriculum
• Apprenticeship period is counted as work experience by many employers

Benefits of Apprenticeship

• Monthly stipend during training
• Hands-on industry experience and skill development
• National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) on successful completion — recognized for government job applications
• Better employability — many companies absorb apprentices as regular employees
• No tuition fee — training is free; the apprentice earns while learning

Important Tips

1. Keep Aadhaar linked — Your Aadhaar must be linked to your bank account for stipend disbursement
2. Apply to multiple opportunities — You can apply to several apprenticeships simultaneously to increase your chances
3. Verify the establishment — Check that the employer is genuinely registered on the portal before accepting
4. Complete the full term — Leaving midway without valid reason can result in penalties; complete the apprenticeship to earn your NAC
5. Check state-specific schemes — Some states (like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra) offer additional apprenticeship stipend top-ups

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any fee to apply for apprenticeship?

No. Registration and application on apprenticeshipindia.gov.in is completely free for candidates.

Can I do apprenticeship after 12th without ITI?

Yes. Optional trade apprenticeships are available for candidates who have passed 10th or 12th without ITI. You can also apply for trade apprenticeships in some trades with 12th pass qualification.

Will I get a certificate after apprenticeship?

Yes. On successful completion and passing the All India Trade Test (AITT), you receive a National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) which is recognized for employment in government and private sectors.

Can I apply for government jobs after apprenticeship?

Yes. The NAC is recognized as a valid qualification for many government job recruitments, especially those requiring ITI or trade certifications.

What if my employer does not pay the stipend?

You can raise a grievance on the apprenticeshipindia.gov.in portal or complain to the Regional Directorate of Apprenticeship Training (RDAT) in your region. The employer is legally bound to pay at least the minimum prescribed stipend.

Is apprenticeship available for diploma and degree holders?

Yes. Graduate Apprentices (engineering degree holders) and Technician Apprentices (diploma holders) have dedicated apprenticeship categories with higher stipends.

How many apprentices can a company hire?

A company can engage apprentices ranging from 2.5% to 15% of its total workforce (including contractual workers), depending on government notifications.

This guide is for informational purposes only. CitizenNest is not affiliated with any government body. For latest information, visit apprenticeshipindia.gov.in.