The National Apprenticeship System is authorized by the National Apprenticeship Act. The Act directed the Secretary of Labor to establish labor standards to guard the welfare of apprentices, to cooperate with the States in the promotion of such standards and to engage in the promotion and adoption of those standards by industry in apprenticeship programs.

The apprenticeship standards are administered by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training and recognized State Apprenticeship Councils or Agencies which prescribe the requirements for "registration" -- the recognition of apprenticeship programs and apprentices. Credentialing through registration is particularly important to the individual who may then demonstrate completion of a bona-fide apprenticeship and attainment of recognized skilled or journeyworker status. Government does not conduct the training for others. However, it operates apprenticeship programs as an employer in a number of civilian agencies and the military. BAT staff located in 110 offices nationwide, working with State Apprenticeship Councils or Agencies in 27 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and State Labor Commissioners, assist in establishing, servicing, and monitoring registered apprenticeship programs.

Federal and State vocational education may provide resources for a portion of the related technical instruction.

The Federal Committee on Registered Apprenticeship (FCRA), composed of employer, labor, and public representatives advises the Secretary of Labor on apprenticeship and training matters.