Free & Low-Cost Certifications (Updated for 2026)
Free & Low-Cost Certifications You Can Take Right Now (No Referral Needed)
If you're looking for free certifications with no background check required to enroll, you're in the right place. This guide includes 35+ real certifications and funding pathways that can help you qualify for higher-paying jobs — many in under 30 days.
Every program listed here can be started without a referral, case manager, or special approval.
Updated for 2026.
Backed by data from the U.S. Department of Labor and CareerOneStop.
We do not charge for inclusion on this list. Programs were selected based on accessibility, employer recognition, and funding availability. We review this page quarterly to keep pricing, scholarship, and funding information current.
Table of Contents
One Credential Can Change Everything
Thousands of people with records have used certifications like OSHA 10, EPA 608, and CNA training to rebuild stable careers. The difference between "unemployed" and "hired" is often one credential. This page exists so you can find that credential today.
A Note on Conviction Type & Licensing
Most certifications listed here do not require background checks to enroll. However, some career fields — including healthcare, hazmat CDL endorsements, childcare, and security — may have licensing restrictions depending on conviction type and state law. Where applicable, we note this in the individual program listing. Always confirm eligibility with the relevant licensing board before investing significant time or money.
Want a job within 30 days?
Start with Forklift Certification + OSHA 10-Hour Card. These two certifications alone can qualify you for $18–$25/hr warehouse, construction, and manufacturing jobs — and you can complete both in under 12 hours from your couch.
Fastest to Highest Pay — Certification Snapshot
Quick comparison of popular certifications ranked from fastest to highest earning.
Completely Free Certifications (No Cost to Start)
Cost: 100% Free
Trades: Construction, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Painting, Welding, Refrigeration
Time: 2–3 hours per trade track (self-paced)
You Get: Completion certificate + access to contractor hiring network
#1 — Home Depot Path to Pro Skills Program
100% free, on-demand online courses in General Construction, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Painting, Welding, and Refrigeration. Each trade track is 2–3 hours of short video lessons. Graduates get access to the Path to Pro Network — a free job marketplace connecting you directly with contractors. Also covers blueprint reading, construction math, resume skills, and starting a construction business. Available in English and Spanish. Backed by $50M Home Depot Foundation; 60,000+ graduates.
Cost: Free to take (certificates $30–$55 optional)
Time: 2–10 hours per course
Best For: Construction, warehouse, manufacturing, general labor
#2 — OSHA Safety Awareness Courses (OSHAcademy)
Over 130 free safety courses at your own pace. Topics include hazard communication, fall protection, electrical safety, workplace violence prevention, and more. Training materials are completely free — you only pay ($30–$55) if you want the official certificate document.
Cost: 100% Free
Time: 1–5 hours per lesson
Best For: Rebuilding basic computer and digital skills
#3 — Google Applied Digital Skills
100% free video lessons on essential digital skills: email basics, Google Docs, Sheets, creating a resume, budgeting, and online job searching. No account needed — just visit the site and start learning.
Cost: Free with scholarship; $49/month without
Time: 3–6 months at ~10 hrs/week
You Get: Professional certificate + employer hiring consortium access
Best For: Tech, data, project management, cybersecurity ($50K–$80K+)
#4 — Google Career Certificates (Free with Scholarship)
Professional certificates in IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, UX Design, Cybersecurity, and Digital Marketing through Coursera. Standard cost ~$49/month, but Google provides 100,000 need-based scholarships making courses free. Ladies of Hope Ministries also distributes free scholarships for justice-impacted individuals. Connects to Google employer hiring network.
Cost: 100% Free (printed certificate optional $25)
Time: 1–20 hours per course
Best For: Building resume skills across any industry
#5 — Alison — 4,000+ Free Online Courses & Certificates
One of the world's largest free learning platforms with over 4,000 free courses. All courses and digital certificates are free — you only pay for a printed copy ($25). Includes Customer Service, Warehouse Management, Health & Safety, Microsoft Excel, Forklift Operator Training, Construction, and Project Management.
Cost: Free to audit; certificates $49–$79
Time: Most courses 4–12 weeks
Best For: Any skill area — tech, business, healthcare, communication
#6 — Coursera Free Courses (Audit Mode)
Thousands of courses from top universities and companies. Most courses can be audited for free — full access to videos, readings, and quizzes. You only pay for the certificate. Some states offer completely free Coursera access through their Department of Labor.
Cost: 100% Free
Best For: Basic computer skills, Microsoft Office, job search fundamentals
#8 — GCFGlobal (Goodwill Community Foundation)
Completely free classes on computer basics, Microsoft Office, internet safety, job searching, resume writing, and email. Simple, visual, designed for absolute beginners. Best starting point if you haven't used a computer in years.
Cost: 100% Free
Best For: Starting a business after release
#9 — Inmates to Entrepreneurs (Free Entrepreneurship Course)
A completely free online entrepreneurship course anyone can take. Learn business planning, finding customers, managing money, and building a business with little startup capital. Includes mentoring and community support.
Cost: 100% Free
Format: Mail-based (no internet needed)
Best For: Currently incarcerated individuals
#10 — College Guild (Free Mail-Based Courses — No Internet Needed)
Free correspondence courses by mail for people currently incarcerated. Covers creative writing, history, science, philosophy, and art. Each course connects you with a volunteer mentor. One of the few programs that requires no internet access.
SECTION 2: Quick, Cheap Certifications Under $75 That Lead to Jobs
These are low-cost certifications under $50 (most under $75) that can immediately qualify you for higher-paying positions. Many employers require these credentials. These are quick certifications that pay well — some take under 2 hours.
Best Return on Investment
The EPA 608 certification costs just $10 and is required for all HVAC and refrigeration work. HVAC technicians earn $45,000–$80,000+ per year. That's the single best ROI of any cert on this page.
Cost: $25–$69
Time: 10 hours (spread over multiple days)
You Get: Official OSHA DOL wallet card, valid nationwide
Best For: Construction, warehouse, manufacturing, general labor
Providers: OSHA Education Center, 360training, OSHA.com
#11 — OSHA 10-Hour Card (Construction or General Industry)
One of the most valuable entry-level certifications you can get. Required or preferred for construction, warehouse, manufacturing, and many labor jobs. 100% online, self-paced, results in an official U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) wallet card. Legally required in some states (like New York) before you can work on any construction site.
Cost: $10 (includes training + proctored exam)
Time: A few hours study + 2-hour exam
You Get: Official EPA 608 Certification (lifetime — never expires)
Best For: HVAC, refrigeration, air conditioning careers ($45K–$80K+)
#12 — EPA 608 Certification (HVAC & Refrigeration — Required by Law)
If you want to work in HVAC, refrigeration, or anything involving air conditioning, you legally need an EPA 608 certification. SkillCat offers the complete training + online proctored exam for just $10. Study on your phone, take the exam from home. 98% pass rate. Never expires.
Cost: $10/month (cancel anytime)
Courses: 200+ in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, appliance repair
Certs Included: EPA 608, OSHA-10, NATE prep, trade school diplomas
Best For: Learning a trade from your phone
#13 — SkillCat — Trade School on Your Phone ($10/month)
A phone-based trade school with 200+ simulation-based courses in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and appliance repair for $10/month. Includes IACET-accredited trade school diplomas, OSHA-10, NATE cert prep, and the EPA 608 exam — all from your phone. 300,000+ students. English and Spanish.
Cost: $30–$60
Time: 1–2 hours online + employer evaluation
You Get: OSHA-compliant certification card (3-year validity)
Best For: Warehouse, logistics, distribution, construction ($16–$25+/hr)
Free Alternatives: Center for People, some Goodwill affiliates, local workforce centers
#14 — Forklift Operator Certification
One of the fastest certifications that lead to jobs. Certified operators earn $16–$25+/hour. Online portion covers all OSHA-required safety training and takes under 2 hours. Your employer completes the hands-on evaluation. Valid in all 50 states for 3 years.
Cost: $15–$18
Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
You Get: ServSafe Food Handler certificate (nationally recognized)
Best For: Restaurant, food service, catering jobs
#15 — ServSafe Food Handler Certificate
The gold standard food safety certification in restaurants and food service. Often required for restaurant, catering, food truck, and food manufacturing jobs. Course and exam are online and can be completed in a single sitting. ServSafe Manager ($75–$100) upgrade for supervisory roles.
Cost: $14.99–$35
Time: 1–2 hours
Best For: Healthcare, childcare, fitness, security, construction
#16 — CPR / First Aid / AED Certification
Required or preferred for healthcare, childcare, fitness, security, and construction jobs. Online courses start at $14.99 and take 1–2 hours. Valid for 2 years. Note: some employers require AHA or Red Cross in-person certification — always check first.
Cost: $25–$75
Time: 4–8 hours
Best For: Road construction, highway projects, utility work
How to Find: Search "[your state] flagger certification online"
#17 — Flagging / Traffic Control Certification
Qualifies you for traffic flagger work on road construction — typically $15–$25/hour with frequent overtime. Most states accept online or one-day courses. One of the quickest certifications with immediate job availability.
Cost: $14.99–$25
Time: ~1 hour
Best For: Custodial, healthcare support, barbershops, personal care
#18 — Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Certification
Required by OSHA for workers who may contact blood or bodily fluids. Covers janitorial, healthcare support, tattooing, barbering, and personal care. Takes about 1 hour online.
Cost: $50–$150 (training + state license fee)
Time: 8–40 hours depending on state
You Get: State-issued security guard license
Pay Range: $16–$25/hour; armed security $20–$30+/hour
Conviction Note: Eligibility varies by state and conviction type. Violent felonies typically disqualifying. Many misdemeanors and non-violent felonies are eligible. Check your state's Division of Licensing.
#19 — Security Guard License (State-Specific)
Security is one of the highest-demand fields for people with records. Many states allow individuals with certain convictions to obtain a security guard license after completing required training hours. Some states require as little as 8 hours; others require 40+. Quick certification, widely available.
Need Your Record Cleared?
Expungement can open even more doors. Find an expungement attorney in your state → felonfriendlyjobsnow.com/legal/attorney-directory/
Sponsored placement available — felonfriendlyjobsnow.com/advertise/
Licensed & Credentialed Careers ($75–$500)
These certifications require a slightly higher investment but open doors to career-track jobs with serious earning potential. Some involve state licensing — we note conviction-related restrictions where applicable.
Cost: $125.25 (5-year card); reduced to $105.25 with valid HME, FAST, or Global Entry
Time: Application ~15 minutes; card arrives in 4–6 weeks
You Get: Federal TWIC credential, valid 5 years
Pay Range: Port workers $18–$35/hr; longshoremen $25–$50+/hr
Conviction Note: TSA conducts background check. Certain offenses permanently disqualifying. Other felonies may be temporarily disqualifying (typically within 7 years of release). Many people with older or non-violent convictions DO qualify. Waiver available.
#20 — TWIC Card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)
A federally-issued ID card required to work at ports, harbors, maritime facilities, and secure transportation zones. If you want to work in shipping, port logistics, maritime construction, or as a CDL driver entering port facilities, you need a TWIC card. Issued by the TSA.
Cost: $20–$100 (varies by state for application + supplies)
Time: Some states require no training; others 3–6 hours
You Get: State-issued Notary Public commission (typically 4-year term)
Pay Range: $50–$200/signing; Notary Signing Agents earn $75–$300/loan closing
Conviction Note: Varies by state. Many states allow with felonies after waiting period or with expungement. California more lenient; other states stricter. Check Secretary of State.
Upgrade: Become a Notary Signing Agent ($75–$150 additional training) for significantly higher pay
#21 — Notary Public Certification (State-Specific)
Low-barrier, high-flexibility credential that provides side income or complements other jobs. Notaries earn money witnessing signatures on legal documents, loan closings, and real estate transactions. Mobile notaries who travel to clients earn $75–$200 per appointment.
Cost: $200–$500 (pre-licensing course + state exam fee)
Time: 60–180 hours pre-licensing education (2–6 months part-time), then state exam
You Get: State real estate salesperson license
Pay Range: Commission-based; average $40K–$60K/yr; top performers $100K+
Conviction Note: Each state's real estate commission reviews individually. Many consider nature of offense, time elapsed, rehabilitation evidence. Texas has pre-application review so you can check eligibility BEFORE paying for the course.
#22 — Real Estate License (State-Dependent)
One of the highest income ceilings of any credential on this page. Many states allow individuals with criminal records to obtain a real estate license, especially for older or non-violent convictions. Pre-licensing courses can be completed online.
Pro Tip: Check Before You Pay
For any licensed career (security, TWIC, notary, real estate), always verify your eligibility with the state licensing board before spending money on training or application fees. Many states offer free preliminary eligibility checks or informal guidance.
Free & Low-Cost Healthcare Certifications (CNA & Phlebotomy)
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing career paths for justice-impacted individuals. CNA and phlebotomy certifications can be completed in weeks, pay well, and many training programs are free through workforce funding.
Important: State Licensing Note
CNA and phlebotomy training does not require a background check. However, some states require background checks for state licensing after you complete training. Most states have waiver or appeal processes for people with records. Always check with your state's health department or licensing board before enrolling to confirm eligibility.
Free Paths: Goodwill CNA classes (select locations like Omaha), NIU College (Los Angeles) tuition-free CNA training, WIOA-funded programs through local American Job Center
Cost: Free through workforce programs; $500–$1,500 out-of-pocket if self-pay (FAFSA can cover)
Time: 4–8 weeks (classroom + clinical hours)
You Get: CNA certification (state-specific), immediate job eligibility
Pay Range: $15–$22/hour ($30K–$45K/year)
Demand: Over 200,000 CNA openings nationwide
#23 — Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) — Free or Low-Cost Training
CNAs provide essential patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health agencies. One of the fastest healthcare career entry points — many programs are just 4–8 weeks. Multiple paths to free training exist.
Free Paths: Job Corps (ages ~16–24, select centers), workforce-funded community college programs, NHA educational grants
Free Intro Course: Alison offers a free basic phlebotomy course — good for early learning
Cost: Free through workforce/grant programs; $700–$1,500 if self-pay (FAFSA can cover)
Time: 4–8 weeks (classroom + clinical)
You Get: Phlebotomy certification (national through NHA, ASCP, or AMT)
Pay Range: $16–$23/hour ($33K–$47K/year)
#24 — Phlebotomy Technician — Free Through Grants & Workforce Programs
Phlebotomists draw blood in hospitals, labs, clinics, and blood banks. Training is short, the work is steady, and demand is high. Multiple free or funded paths exist.
Healthcare Hiring Boom
Healthcare has one of the worst labor shortages in the country. Many hospitals and nursing facilities will pay for your CNA training if you commit to working for them after certification. Ask about employer-sponsored training programs in your area.
CDL, Trucking & Trades — How to Get Funded Training
A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is one of the highest-paying credentials available for people with records. Most trucking companies are felon-friendly employers, and the driver shortage means they're hiring aggressively. No universal free online CDL program exists — but multiple pathways exist to get your CDL training fully funded.
WIOA Funding: Your local workforce board can approve CDL school tuition — often with stipends
Community Colleges: Many have CDL programs with tuition assistance linked to state grants
Company-Sponsored: Werner, CRST, Swift, Schneider offer paid CDL training (train + hire)
Cost: Free through WIOA or company sponsorship; $3,000–$7,000 out of pocket otherwise
Time: 3–8 weeks for CDL-A training
You Get: CDL-A or CDL-B license (state-issued)
Pay Range: $45,000–$80,000+ first year; experienced $65K–$100K+
Felony & CDL: Most felony convictions do NOT disqualify you. Check with state DMV.
#25 — CDL Training — Funded Through Workforce Programs
CDL training typically costs $3,000–$7,000, but you should not pay out of pocket if you qualify for workforce funding.
CDL = Highest Earning Potential on This Page
First-year CDL drivers commonly earn $45,000–$80,000. With experience and specialization (hazmat, tanker, oversized), earnings reach $80K–$100K+. Many companies offer sign-on bonuses of $5,000–$15,000 due to the driver shortage.
Cost: Free through WIOA or workforce grants; $1,000–$5,000 if self-pay
Time: 6–12 weeks entry-level; 6–9 months advanced
You Get: AWS welding certification (nationally recognized)
Pay Range: $20–$35/hr entry; specialized welders (pipeline, underwater) $50–$100+/hr
Also See: Home Depot Path to Pro offers a free introductory welding track
Pay Range: $16–$23/hour ($33K–$47K/year)
#26 — Welding Certification (AWS Entry-Level — Funded Through Workforce Programs)
Welding is one of the highest-paying skilled trades and is in severe labor shortage nationwide. Entry-level AWS (American Welding Society) certifications can be earned through community college programs, and many are fully funded through WIOA workforce grants. Welders work in construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, pipeline, and automotive industries.
Free Tech & IT Certifications That Pay $40K–$80K+
Tech careers are some of the highest-paying and most accessible for people with records. These free online certifications lead to careers paying $40,000–$80,000+.
No Degree? No Problem.
Companies like Google, IBM, and Cisco now offer employer-recognized credentials that don't require a college degree. Designed for complete beginners with zero tech experience.
Cost: 100% Free (including digital badges)
Courses: Intro to Cybersecurity, Networking Basics, Python Essentials, IT Essentials
Time: 6–70 hours per course
Best For: IT support, networking, cybersecurity ($45K–$80K+)
#27 — Cisco Networking Academy (Skills for All)
Completely free courses in cybersecurity, networking, Python programming, and IT fundamentals. Includes hands-on labs and free digital badges recognized worldwide.
Cost: 100% Free (including digital badges)
Courses: AI Fundamentals, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Data Science
Time: 3–40 hours per course
#28 — IBM SkillsBuild
Free courses and free digital credentials in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data science, and professional skills. Self-paced, beginner-friendly. IBM badges can be added to LinkedIn.
Cost: Free to learn; certification exams $80–$165 (free vouchers sometimes available)
Best For: Cloud computing, data analysis, IT administration
#29 — Microsoft Learn
Thousands of free interactive tutorials covering Azure cloud, Microsoft 365, Power BI, and data engineering. Many paths prep you for official Microsoft certifications. Microsoft occasionally offers free exam vouchers through virtual training events.
Cost: 100% Free (always)
Certificates: Web Design, JavaScript, Front End Dev, Data Analysis, more
Time: ~300 hours per certificate
Best For: Web development, coding, freelance tech work
#30 — freeCodeCamp
100% free, nonprofit coding school. Curriculum covers web design, JavaScript, Python, data analysis, and machine learning. Earn free verified certificates by completing projects. Entirely self-paced with active community support.
Cost: Free with library card
Courses: Excel, project management, communication, coding, graphic design
Best For: Building professional skills for any career
#31 — LinkedIn Learning (Free with Library Card)
Many public libraries provide free access to LinkedIn Learning with your library card. That's 16,000+ courses on business, tech, and creative skills with completion certificates you can add to LinkedIn. Getting a library card is free.
Cost: 100% Free (training + exam fees covered)
You Get: CompTIA A+ certification + job placement support
Best For: IT support, help desk, tech careers ($40K–$60K+ entry level)
Also Check: NPower, Goodwill IT programs, and Year Up for additional free IT paths
#32 — CompTIA A+ Certification — Free Through Climb Hire
Climb Hire offers 100% free training toward the CompTIA A+ certification — one of the most recognized entry-level IT certifications. The program covers training, exam fees, and includes job placement support. One of the few completely free paths to a high-value IT certification.
GED Prep, College Readiness & Free Financial Aid
Cost: Free study tools; tests $30–$40 per subject
Best For: Anyone who needs their high school equivalency
#33 — GED.com (Official GED Prep)
The official GED website offers free practice tests and study materials for all four subject areas. Actual GED tests cost about $30–$40 per subject depending on your state.
Cost: Free to apply
You Get: Pell Grants, state grants, work-study, federal loans
Who Qualifies: Most people — including those with criminal records
#35 — FAFSA — Unlock Up to $7,395/Year in Free College Money
Not a class, but arguably the most important step. FAFSA is free and can unlock Pell Grants up to $7,395/year — money you never pay back. Pell Grants have been reinstated for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. This is the gateway to all federal and state financial aid.
Workforce Centers & Free Training Funding (WIOA)
Even if a certification isn't free on its own, your local workforce center can often pay for it. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) provides federal funding for job training — and justice-impacted individuals are a priority population for these services.
Training Covered: CNA, CDL, phlebotomy, forklift, IT certs, welding, HVAC, and more
Additional Support: Transportation stipends, childcare assistance, work clothes/tools, exam fees
Job Placement: Resume help, interview prep, direct employer referrals
Cost to You: Free — funded by federal and state workforce dollars
Who Qualifies: Priority given to unemployed, low-income, veterans, justice-impacted
Phone: 1-877-US2-JOBS (1-877-872-5627)
American Job Centers & WIOA Training Funding
American Job Centers (also called CareerSource, WorkForce, or Career Centers) are free government offices that can fund your training, help you find a job, and provide support services.
Pro Tips: Maximize Free Training Opportunities
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Apply for FAFSA first — unlocks federal grants for many programs
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Contact your workforce center — they can fund CNA, CDL, IT, forklift, and more
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Ask about employer sponsorship — some employers pay for training if you commit to work
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Check nonprofits — Goodwill, Job Corps (ages 16–24), NPower, community partners often have free training
Stack Your Certifications for Maximum Impact
Don't stop at one. Employers notice candidates with multiple relevant certifications. Example: Home Depot Path to Pro + OSHA 10 + Forklift = you're more qualified than most applicants for entry-level construction and warehouse jobs.
Best Certifications by Career Goal
How to Get Started Today
1
Get Online
If you don't have reliable internet, go to your local public library. Libraries offer free computer and WiFi access, and many provide free LinkedIn Learning access.
2
Pick ONE Certification
Choose the one that matches your career goal from the table above and complete it. One credential on your resume is better than zero.
3
Build Your Resume
Download our Resume Kit at felonfriendlyjobsnow.com/resume-builder/ — designed specifically for justice-impacted job seekers.
4
Find Employers Who Hire
Visit felonfriendlyjobsnow.com/jobs-by-state/ for detailed lists of employers with fair-chance hiring practices in your area.
Frequently asked questions
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Disclaimer: Prices, availability, eligibility, and course details may change. We recommend visiting each provider's website to confirm current pricing and offerings before enrolling. Felon Friendly Jobs Now is not affiliated with any providers listed and does not guarantee acceptance, employment outcomes, or income levels.
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We do not verify background check policies of individual employers. Having a certification does not guarantee employment.
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Some careers may require state licensing that includes restrictions based on criminal history. Always confirm eligibility with the employer or state licensing board before investing time and money.
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Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you enroll through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep this resource free.
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This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or career advice.
Sources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook (2024–2026 data) • CareerOneStop.org, U.S. Department of Labor • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Section 608 • Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), U.S. Department of Education • Transportation Security Administration (TSA), TWIC Program • Individual program websites as linked throughout this page.