Auto Mechanic Schools & Programs

Automotive service technicians and mechanics earn a median salary of $46,880 per year (BLS, OEWS, May 2024), with experienced technicians at top-paying shops exceeding $70,000 annually. Auto mechanic programs prepare students to diagnose, repair, and maintain modern cars and light trucks, covering everything from engine performance and electronic control systems to hybrid and electric vehicle technology. With nearly 69,000 job openings projected each year and increasingly complex vehicle systems, formal training gives aspiring technicians a clear advantage in the job market.

What Is an Auto Mechanic Program?

An auto mechanic program trains students in the inspection, diagnosis, and repair of automobiles and light trucks. Coursework typically covers engine systems, brakes, steering and suspension, electrical systems, and computerized diagnostics. Programs accredited by the ASE Education Foundation (formerly NATEF) meet industry-recognized quality standards and are often preferred by employers. Many programs also align with manufacturer-specific training tracks, giving graduates direct pathways into dealership careers. Graduates are prepared to work in dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance departments, and specialty service centers.

What You’ll Learn

• Engine performance diagnostics using OBD-II scanners and manufacturer-specific tools
• Brake system inspection, repair, and ABS troubleshooting
• Steering, suspension, and wheel alignment procedures
• Automatic and manual transmission service and overhaul
• Automotive electrical systems including starting, charging, and lighting circuits
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) service and refrigerant recovery
• Hybrid and electric vehicle safety protocols and high-voltage system basics
• Emissions testing procedures and state inspection requirements
• Fuel injection and ignition system diagnostics
• Shop management software and digital service documentation

How Long Does Training Take?

Certificate programs in automotive technology typically take 6 to 12 months of full-time study. Diploma programs often run 12 to 18 months and cover a broader range of vehicle systems. Associate degree programs take about 2 years and typically include general education courses alongside technical training. Some manufacturers also sponsor specialized training tracks (such as GM ASEP, Ford ASSET, or Toyota T-TEN) that combine classroom instruction with dealership work experience over 2 years. Tuition for certificate programs may range from approximately $5,000 to $15,000, while associate degree programs at community colleges typically cost between $8,000 and $25,000 total. Costs vary significantly by institution and region, so check with individual schools for current pricing.

Admissions & Requirements

• High school diploma or GED is typically required
• Basic math skills, particularly in measurement and fractions
• Valid driver’s license (required by most programs for road testing and shop work)
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
• Some programs require students to purchase their own basic hand tool set
• Background check may be required for programs with dealership partnerships

Licensing & Certification

Auto mechanics are not typically required to hold a state license, but industry certifications significantly improve job prospects and earning potential. The ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification is the most widely recognized credential, offered in specific areas such as Engine Repair, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, and Heating & Air Conditioning. Each ASE test costs approximately $40 to $50, with a one-time registration fee of around $40. Technicians who pass all eight core ASE tests earn the ASE Master Automobile Technician designation. Certifications must be renewed every five years by retaking the relevant exams. Many employers prefer or require ASE certification. Some states also require technicians who perform emissions inspections to hold a state-issued inspector license.

Career Outlook & Salary

According to the BLS, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024), automotive service technicians and mechanics earn a median annual wage of $46,880. The top 10% of earners make more than $70,320 per year, while entry-level positions (bottom 10%) start around $28,128. The field employs approximately 732,900 workers nationwide, with about 69,000 openings projected annually through 2032. Overall employment growth is projected at 1%, which is slower than average, but steady retirements and increasing vehicle complexity continue to drive demand for qualified technicians. States with large vehicle fleets and population centers, such as California, Texas, and Florida, tend to offer the most positions. Experienced technicians with ASE Master certification and manufacturer-specific credentials typically earn at the higher end of the pay range.

Where You’ll Work

Auto mechanics find employment across a range of settings. The most common workplaces include new car dealerships, independent auto repair shops, national chain service centers (such as Firestone, Midas, or Pep Boys), fleet maintenance departments for trucking or rental companies, and government vehicle maintenance facilities. Work is performed indoors in climate-controlled or ventilated shops, though conditions can involve exposure to grease, solvents, and loud equipment. Most technicians work full time, and some shops offer evening or weekend hours.

Online vs In-Person Options

Auto mechanic training is heavily hands-on. Core skills like engine diagnostics, brake repair, and transmission work require in-person shop time with actual vehicles and professional-grade equipment. Some programs offer hybrid formats where theory courses (such as automotive systems overview or shop management) are completed online, but the technical labs must be done on-site. When evaluating programs, look for well-equipped shops with modern diagnostic tools and a good student-to-vehicle ratio.

Browse by Location

• View all locations: Auto Mechanic by state

Career Guide

Ready to learn more about what automotive technicians do day-to-day, salary expectations, and advancement opportunities?

Career Guide: Auto Technician →

FAQs

Is ASE certification required to work as an auto mechanic?

ASE certification is not legally required in most states, but it is strongly preferred by employers and often leads to higher pay. Many dealerships and chain repair shops require technicians to earn ASE credentials within a set timeframe after hiring. Certification demonstrates competence in specific vehicle systems and must be renewed every five years.

What tools do I need to bring to an auto mechanic program?

Most programs require students to own a basic hand tool set, which typically includes wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and a multimeter. Specialty diagnostic equipment and major shop tools are usually provided by the school. Expect to invest between $500 and $2,000 in personal tools during your training, depending on the program’s requirements.

How is auto mechanic training different from auto body or collision repair?

Auto mechanic programs focus on the mechanical, electrical, and computer systems that make vehicles run, including engines, transmissions, brakes, and diagnostics. Auto body and collision repair programs focus on the exterior of the vehicle, covering dent repair, painting, frame straightening, and panel replacement. These are separate career paths with different certifications and skill sets.

How much does auto mechanic training cost?

Tuition for auto mechanic programs varies widely depending on the type of institution and program length. Certificate programs at vocational schools may range from approximately $5,000 to $15,000, while associate degree programs at community colleges typically cost between $8,000 and $25,000 in total tuition. Manufacturer-sponsored programs (such as GM ASEP or Toyota T-TEN) may have additional costs or savings depending on the dealership arrangement. Financial aid, scholarships, and workforce grants may help offset expenses.

What is the job outlook for auto mechanics?

The BLS projects about 69,000 annual job openings for automotive service technicians through 2032, driven primarily by the need to replace workers who retire or leave the field. While overall employment growth is projected at about 1% (slower than average), the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, including hybrid and electric models, continues to create demand for well-trained technicians with current diagnostic skills.

Can I work on electric and hybrid vehicles with auto mechanic training?

Many auto mechanic programs now include introductory coursework on hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) systems, covering high-voltage battery safety, regenerative braking, and electric drivetrain fundamentals. However, advanced EV repair often requires additional manufacturer-specific training or specialized certification. As the EV market grows, technicians with these skills may have a competitive advantage.

What schedule do auto mechanics typically work?

Most auto mechanics work full time, typically 40 hours per week. Shops at dealerships and chain service centers may operate on shifts that include evenings and Saturdays. Independent shops may offer more traditional weekday hours. Overtime is common during busy periods, and some fleet maintenance positions involve rotating or on-call schedules.

Salary data reflects U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for May 2024. Actual salaries vary by location, experience, and employer. Program availability and tuition costs vary by school.

Browse Auto Mechanic Schools by State

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.