Join IATSE Local 488
Information on How to Join
Find everything you need to understand our membership process, including how to apply, eligibility and requirements, transfers and dual cards, and the benefits of union membership.
How to Apply
Eligibility, processing timelines, and our online application
"Must-Joins"
A must-join is someone who has worked 30 days or more under one of our Motion Picture contracts and, under the union security clause, must join the IATSE to keep working. They must submit an application, pay the initiation fee, and be approved by the general membership.
Must-joins often receive an email from Local 488 notifying them of their status, but you don't need to wait for a letter. Once you’ve reached 30 days, you are eligible to join and can start the process on your own. If you do not reside in the Local 488 jurisdiction, you must join the Local in your home state.
FAQ
YES.
We invite all qualified crew working in Motion Picture, Commercial & Digital Media Production in the Local 488 jurisdiction to join our Referral List.
We make this list available to employers and Department Heads looking to fill open positions on union productions when no Local 488 members are available.
See the New Member Welcome Page for orientation information, requirements, and next steps.
That's a big question. Begin by researching programs and organizations in your area to see what training or information is available, attend events, and start building your network.
These are a good place to start:
Contact membership@iatse488.org.
