No, generally, an employer cannot make you train for free if the training is mandatory. If an employer requires you to attend training, that time must be compensated as work time.
When Training Time Must Be Paid
When training is a condition of employment, necessary for your job duties, or mandated by your employer, the time you spend in such training sessions is considered working time and must be paid. This applies even if the training occurs outside of your regular scheduled hours or at a different location.
The requirement for paid time extends beyond formal training sessions. Other employer-mandated activities that require your presence are also typically considered compensable work time. This includes:
- Mandatory Meetings: Any meeting called by the employer that employees are required to attend.
- Lectures: Educational sessions or presentations that are a requirement for employees.
- Company Events: Even events intended for employee enjoyment, such as company picnics or holiday parties, can become paid time if attendance is mandatory or if work is performed during the event.
Understanding Mandatory vs. Voluntary Training
Distinguishing between mandatory and truly voluntary training is key to determining whether it should be compensated.
| Scenario | Paid? | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory Job-Specific Training | Yes | Required by the employer to perform job duties or for compliance. |
| Employer-Directed Skills Enhancement | Yes | Training directly ordered by the employer to improve job performance. |
| Mandatory Company Meetings/Lectures | Yes | Employees are required to attend by the employer. |
| Voluntary Professional Development | No | Employee chooses to attend for personal career growth, not employer-mandated. |
| Optional Company Social Events | No | Attendance is genuinely voluntary, and no work is performed. |
If your employer requires you to attend training, whether it's to learn new software, comply with industry regulations, or simply to understand new company policies, you have the right to be paid for all the time spent.
