Resources
The Tramp Card
Guidelines for traveling brothers and sisters. Follow these rules to represent the IBEW with respect and integrity wherever you drag up.
1
Be courteous and knowledgeable of procedures in other locals
You're a guest. Act like it.
2
No double-booking
Only sign one local's book at a time for the same classification.
3
Don't perform another trade's task
Stay in your lane — protect all trades.
4
Always strive for RIF when possible
Reduction in force — let them send you home before a local member.
5
Don't accept positions of supervision or stewardship unless Book 1 is unavailable
That work belongs to local members first.
6
Keep a paid-up dues receipt
Have it on you. No receipt, no referral.
7
Give the contractor 8 for 8
Not 6, not 12. A full day's work for a full day's pay.
8
Don't accept transfers on specific job calls
Unless your home local or the agreement explicitly allows it.
9
Don't accept furloughs
Furloughs can affect your standing — when in doubt, take the RIF.
10
Help out older brothers and sisters on the job site
Look out for each other. That's what union means.
11
Buy American
Support the workers who support us.
These rules aren't just guidelines — they're how we keep the work union, protect our brothers and sisters, and earn our welcome in every local we visit. You represent the IBEW everywhere you go.