Free Online Trade Schools & Vocational Certifications (The Verified List)
🚀 Quick Pathfinder: What do you want to learn?
Skip the fluff. Jump straight to the training that matches your goals:
Most "free online course" lists are useless for the trades.
They send you to random lectures when you are trying to get hired. If you need workforce development that leads to a paycheck, you must know which providers align with real credentials and real employer expectations.
This article contains affiliate links. We may be compensated if you click them, but our listings are selected based on utility, not commission.
How we label "free" on this page
- 100% Free $0 training and a free certificate of completion from the provider (when offered).
- Fees Apply learning may be free or low-cost, but an exam, subscription, or upgrade can cost money.
- Free Trial useful short-term access, not a long-term free solution.
- Funded Program government or nonprofit funding can cover costs if you qualify (rules vary by location).
Reality check: For regulated trades, online learning helps, but it does not replace required field hours, apprenticeships, or local licensing rules.
The "Gold Standard": Government-Funded Training Programs
Before you look at online courses, check whether you qualify for funded pathways. These are career programs, not just free videos.
1. Job Corps Ages 16-24 No Tuition
If you are between 16 and 24 and meet eligibility requirements, Job Corps can provide career training at no cost. Many centers also provide housing, meals, and support services.
Tip: Program availability and offerings vary by location. Confirm what your local center provides before you plan around it.
2. WIOA Training Funds Eligibility Varies
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) can help pay for approved job training through your local American Job Center. In many areas, WIOA funding is provided through an Individual Training Account (ITA), and you choose from an approved provider list.
Reality check: Eligibility, covered costs, and approved programs depend on your local workforce board. Treat WIOA as a powerful option, not a guarantee.
HVAC & Skilled Trades
You cannot become a licensed contractor purely online—you still need field hours—but you can learn the theory and build job-ready fundamentals online.
SkillCat Fees Apply
Best for: HVAC techs who want mobile-first learning and structured study tools.
SkillCat offers HVAC learning modules and EPA 608 study support. Depending on the plan and testing option, costs may apply.
Important: For EPA 608, verify that the issuing testing organization is EPA-approved. Prep tools help, but the testing program is what matters.
Interplay Learning (SkillMill) Free Trial VR Simulation
While primarily a paid platform for companies, Interplay Learning offers trials and is sometimes available through employers, schools, or workforce programs. Their VR and 3D scenarios are a strong way to practice troubleshooting logic for HVAC, plumbing, and facilities maintenance.
Electrical & Plumbing Theory
Warning: Be skeptical of anyone claiming to certify you as an electrician online. You need an apprenticeship. Use these free resources to prepare for entry tests and classroom theory.
- Mike Holt Enterprises: The gold standard for National Electrical Code (NEC) training. Their free quizzes, videos, and community forums are invaluable when studying for journeyman exams.
- PHCC Academy: The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association curates workforce readiness resources aligned with contractor expectations.
Medical Billing & Coding
This is one of the few career paths you can learn largely from home, but "free" is often a hook for expensive bootcamps. Start with reputable previews before investing.
AMCI Introduction to Medical Coding Free Intro
The Absolute Medical Coding Institute (AMCI) offers an introductory course so you can test the waters before committing to a full certification path.
IT, Tech & Cybersecurity
Tech employers care about demonstrable skills, so corporate-sponsored training is everywhere. The best options combine curriculum with hiring networks and career support.
- Per Scholas: Tuition-Free
A nonprofit delivering career-focused tech training funded by partners. Application and eligibility requirements apply. - Cisco Networking Academy: Global Standard
Offers Packet Tracer and free intro courses in networking and cybersecurity fundamentals. - Google Career Certificates: Often Funded
Usually paid on Coursera, but scholarships and sponsored access exist through partner organizations (for example, community nonprofits). Treat "free" as conditional unless you have a voucher.
University-Grade Theory (MOOCs)
If you need general education, leadership, or business management theory to support your trade career, Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) deliver university-grade learning without the typical tuition.
- Saylor Academy: Low-Cost Credit Option
Free self-paced courses. Certificates are free; some credit pathways require paid proctoring and credit acceptance varies by school. - Coursera: Free Preview (Varies)
Many courses offer a free preview, but full access and certificates vary by course. Expect to pay if you want graded work or an official credential. - edX: University Partners
Built by Harvard and MIT, edX is strong for higher-level engineering, construction management, and entrepreneurship theory. Certificates typically cost money.
The Verdict: Free vs. Paid
Free online training is powerful for pre-apprenticeship readiness. It shows employers you are proactive and not starting from zero.
Paid vocational schools can still make sense if you want structured labs, equipment time, or embedded employer partnerships. The best paid programs also layer on externships or job placement that free options often lack.
Start exploring accredited programs in your area by entering your zip code below.
