Auto Mechanic Schools in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Updated February 20, 2026 Table of Contents

Compare auto mechanic programs in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. Use this page to compare local programs, review typical training formats, and find nearby schools. Program availability, admissions requirements, costs, and outcomes vary by school, contact schools directly to confirm details.

Auto Mechanic Schools Near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

#1

Saddleback College

Mission Viejo, CA 6.8 miles away BOC Score 71.2
Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,156
  • Out-of-state tuition: $11,860
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 46%
  • Programs offered: 57
  • Annual completions: 1,490
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#2

Irvine Valley College

Irvine, CA 10.8 miles away BOC Score 65.0
Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,156
  • Out-of-state tuition: $11,860
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 57%
  • Programs offered: 53
  • Annual completions: 1,168

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#3

Santa Ana College

Santa Ana, CA 18.8 miles away BOC Score 65.7
Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,180
  • Out-of-state tuition: $10,756
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 31%
  • Programs offered: 55
  • Annual completions: 4,430
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#4

UEI College-Garden Grove

Garden Grove, CA 23.1 miles away BOC Score 33.7
Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 15
  • Annual completions: 1,742

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#5

Golden West College

Huntington Beach, CA 24.2 miles away BOC Score 64.0
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 27
  • Annual completions: 1,161
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#6

Fullerton College

Fullerton, CA 24.9 miles away BOC Score 52.2
Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 53
  • Annual completions: 1,066

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#7

Riverside City College

Riverside, CA 26.6 miles away BOC Score 45.1
Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $1,428
  • Out-of-state tuition: $12,498
Contact
Key stats
  • Graduation rate: 34%
  • Programs offered: 58
  • Annual completions: 2,637

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#8

Cypress College

Cypress, CA 28 miles away BOC Score 49.5
Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 52
  • Annual completions: 1,701

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#9

Universal Technical Institute of California Inc

Rancho Cucamonga, CA 31 miles away BOC Score 62.3
Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 7
  • Annual completions: 1,581

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#10

UEI College-Oceanside

Oceanside, CA 32.5 miles away BOC Score 37.3
Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 16
  • Annual completions: 1,331

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

California Auto Mechanic Salary Snapshot

California
California Median Pay $64,980 $31.24 per hour
U.S. Median Pay $50,620 $24.34 per hour
Data Year: 2025 SOC: 49-3023 Source: BLS OEWS

What to Compare (Quick Checklist)

  • ASE certification tracks offered and pass rates
  • Hands-on shop hours vs. classroom time
  • Tool costs and whether equipment is included or separate
  • Employer partnerships or dealership placement programs
  • State-specific inspection or emissions licensing steps

Next Steps

Shortlist a few schools, then ask about schedule options, hands-on training time, and total cost in writing.

Career Overview

Learn more about salary, outlook, and career paths: Auto Technician career guide

Explore more Auto Mechanic schools in California or visit our Auto Mechanic training guide for program details, salary data, and certification requirements.

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