How to Join a Carpenters Union

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: June 8, 2021 References

Carpenters union are professional communities that provide benefits like fair wages and safe working conditions to their members. You can join a carpenters union if you are a new carpenter looking for training courses or if you are an existing carpenter looking for a new carpentry job. Research unions in your area to help you decide, and contact a union representative when you are ready to join. They can help you complete the application, pay your dues, and become part of the union.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Choosing a Union

1
Search online for local carpenters unions or councils. There are a wide variety of carpenters unions, based on your location and specific skill set.
- Search by state, regional, and local unions to get specific.
- Many websites will give you information on job sites, upcoming events, and current wages.
2
Look into each union’s benefits, resources, dues, and required skills. Many people join unions for the fair pay, protection in the workplace, and ability to develop skills. Most websites will have a “Benefits” tab you can click out that outlines the perks of joining their union. Explore what each union as to offer.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- For example, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America offers extensive training courses for both new and existing carpenters.
Advertisement
3
Ask your peers in the carpentry industry for recommendations. You can ask union coworkers, friends, or family members about their experience with their union. Ask them about benefits and training programs to get a sense of what makes their union unique.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- You can choose to apply to the union they recommend, or you can use this union as a reference as you explore more options.
4
Contact a local union or council to get more information. A union representative will provide you with everything you need to know about that particular union. Visit the union’s website, click on the “Contact Us” section, and either call the given number or send an email expressing interest.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- When you contact them, say something like, “Hello, my name is Jon. I am calling because I am interested in joining a union and was looking for information on your union in particular.”
5
Narrow your options down to 1 union. Review the options you’ve gathered, and picture yourself in each of the unions. Is 1 union a better fit for you than the others? Consider where the union is located, how much the membership dues are, and what kind of benefits the union can provide. Then, decide on a regional union.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Joining the Union

1
Contact a union office by online form, email, or phone. You can call or email the office directly if the website lists a number or email address. There is also a contact form online. Click on the “Contact Us” or “Join" link, and fill out your name, phone number, and email address.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- When you get in contact with a representative, ask them to go over the application process with you. Some unions will mail you an acceptance letter, and others will contact you via phone.
2
Fill out and submit a union membership application. After you get in touch with a union representative, they will provide you with instructions on how to fill out an application, either in person or online. Complete your application with your biographic information and experience, and submit your application online or in person.^{[5]
X
Research source}
3
Interview with the carpenters union if they request one. Some unions will require you to complete an interview prior to your acceptance. Dress professionally, show up about 15 minutes early, and be prepared to talk about your carpentry experience.
- You can also prepare with carpentry union interview practice questions. Search online for sample questions, and rehearse your answers to them in front of a mirror or with a friend.
- Sample questions include things like, "How do you ensure your measurements are accurate?" or "What do you think makes a good carpenter?"^{[6]
  X
  Research source}
4
Receive your acceptance in the mail or by phone call. Every union is different with how they notify accepted applicants. Many mail acceptance letters, though some may call you to congratulate you. You should hear back relatively quickly, within 1 - 2 weeks.
- Larger unions typically send letters, while smaller, local unions may call you.
5
Pay your membership dues. If you received an acceptance letter, it likely will have instructions detailing how to mail back your membership dues. You can also pay your dues online by visiting your union’s website and clicking on a link like “Current Members.” Fees range from about $10-40 a month.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- You can pay month-by-month or for multiple months.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Using Your Union Benefits

1
Discuss your specific union's benefit program with your representative. After you are accepted, your union representative will go over all of your benefits as they relate to your particular union. You can ask questions regarding benefits at any time.
- Your union representative can answer questions regarding your health coverage, annuity, and pension, for example. Talk to them if you have any questions about your wages and working conditions.
2
Call your union's legal hotline if you need help with legal matters. Visit you union website, look for a "Benefits" tab, and find the "Legal Hotline" section. Call the phone number to connect with a representative.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- They can help you with matters including family, criminal, personal injury, estates, real estate, and commercial law.
3
Register online or call a local training center to take training courses. As part of your union agreements, you can take skill advancement classes. Visit your union's website, and look for a tab reading "Training,"or "Courses." Click the link to complete your registration online, or call your regional center to sign up over the phone.^{[9]
X
Research source}
- Some of the courses you can take include rigging, layout, roofing, safety and health, siding, stairs, and hardware, just to name a few. Go online to see what your particular union offers.

Community Q&A

Question

Do you have to have a high school diploma?

Spaceship

Community Answer

Yes, a high school diploma or GED is one of the basic requirements to become a carpenter.