How to Become a Mechanic - Certification and Training

At minimum, mechanics will require more than just a high school diploma or GED to find employment. While high school courses in automotive repair, electronics, computers, and mathematics provide a good foundation for future learning, they are not typically sufficient to meet employer hiring standards. Most professionals in this field complete a training program. Acceptable programs may be offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or even automobile manufacturers. Graduates either receive an associate degree or certificate of completion in mechanics.

Associate programs generally consist of 60 credit hours and take full-time students two years to complete. Common courses include mathematics, electronics, and automotive repair. It’s not uncommon to find this type of degree program sponsored by automobile manufacturers. In these cases, students tend to alternate attending classes and working full-time in service shops.

Alternatively, certificate programs often last six months to a year and are designed to provide students with intensive career preparation through classroom instruction and hands-on practice. It’s also worth noting that short-term certificate programs are also available. These programs tend to focus on a single subject, such as brake maintenance or engine performance.

Prospective mechanics may benefit from finding an apprenticeship. These programs offer professionals the opportunity to get paid while they gain the skills and experience necessary to become an ASE certified technician. Some companies offer this type of on-the-job training, with the apprentice working under the direct supervision of an ASE master mechanic. In most states, apprenticeship candidates must have a high school diploma or a GED and a valid driver’s license. It’s not uncommon for employers to require a background check and drug screening.

The duties of an apprentice can vary but generally include performing various basic maintenance tasks on vehicles and writing estimates for repairs.

Some common examples of potential responsibilities are:

A potential drawback associated with apprenticeships is the need to own mechanics tools. These items can be expensive. Candidates may also need to work their way up from lower positions before being considered.

Internships differ from apprenticeships because they are generally associated with an academic program. These positions are often unpaid and reserved for students, who may earn class credit for the hours worked. Individuals interested in mechanic internships should speak with their school counselor or advisor.

Every shop handles licensing and certification differently. Some employers require mechanics to have one or more certifications, while other shops do not. It’s important to verify these requirements prior to submitting a job application. Every technician who buys or works with refrigerants must be certified by the US Environmental Agency (EPA). This requires passing the EPA exam. While no formal preparation is typically required, many training programs address the information covered in the test.

As previously mentioned, the most prominent certification for mechanics is the ASE credential.

ASE certification is available in the following automobile specialty areas:

Mechanics can become certified in any of these areas by obtaining at least two years of experience and passing the associated examination. Relevant academic training can be substituted for a single year of experience if applicable. Those who become certified in all the aforementioned specialties, excluding light vehicle diesel engines, may earn the title of ASE Master Technician. ASE Master Technicians tend to have more job security and make higher salaries.

Generally, the more skills mechanics have, the higher their earning potential. Continuing training and education is a great way to enhance employment prospects and increase hourly salaries. Additionally, the car industry is constantly changing. Staying informed about new automobile makes and models and standard procedures, is incredibly important.

Continuing education opportunities may be found in a wide range of places, including parts suppliers and test-equipment manufacturers. Stakeholder entities like these often offer seminars, on-the-job advice, and troubleshooting suggestions for free or at a discount for clients. Local technical colleges may also offer individual courses or full academic programs that lead to associate degrees. Additionally, many organizations and associations offer continuing education via presentations and resources to their members. At a minimum, school bookstores and libraries are likely to have advanced mechanics textbooks available for purchase or loan.

It’s worth noting that some employers offer continuing education opportunities to their mechanics for free. Many shop owners know the value of up-to-date training and ensure their workers are familiar with the best and latest techniques and technology.

An auto mechanic repairs and modifies consumer vehicles. In this program, you will learn about various foreign and domestic engines and affiliated systems such as brakes, electrical, engine cooling systems, and climate control. You will also learn differences between European, domestic, and Asian automobiles, including quirks affiliated with specific model years, etc. Some programs might even have special programs that cover antique cars built before 1973 or so.

This specialty will teach you how to work on large engines that power the vehicles you might see on a construction site, at a quarry, farm, railroad, or on the road in large buses. You will probably learn a lot about diesel motors in this program. Thus, your job prospects might include trucking companies, commercial farming operations, and construction companies, among others.

Motorcycles are notoriously temperamental, and their riders need a reliable mechanic who can keep their bikes tuned and in tip-top shape. In this program, you will learn the ins-and-outs of motorcycle maintenance including how to work on clutch systems, motor rebuilding, and fixing the brake systems so that they are as reliable as possible. If you love fixing or modifying 2-stroke engines that are found in vehicles such as: Harley Davidsons, sleek Moto Guzzis, motocross bikes, or even ATVs, this is the field for you. Who knows? With a bit of experience, you might even work for a motorcycle or ATV racing crew.

Small motors are indispensable. They help us get many tasks done. You can make a good living fixing lawn mowers, standard-sized motorboats, motorcycles, or outdoor equipment. It’s likely that you’ll have a specialty in one of those areas.

Some might think that diesel is a thing of the past, but many industrial and commercial vehicles rely on these oil burners to conduct business every day. European automobiles even maintain a line of diesel cars that people love for their longevity and efficiency. With this specialty you can work on a wide range of systems, but you will probably find your primary market in transportation or working with some sort of industrial heavy machinery.

The ASA is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to and governed by independent service and repair professionals. Member benefits include opportunities to network with successful shop owners, education and training through the Automotive Management Institute, industry information and resources, and reduced business costs.

The AERA serves as a valuable technical resource and industry leader for internal combustion engine rebuilders. Members receive access to technical support, PROSIS PRO engine specification software, specification manuals, automotive machining online training, conferences, grants, special discounts, and the Engine Professional Magazine.

The NABC strives to develop, implement, and promote community-based initiatives that exemplify the professionalism and integrity of the collision repair industry. Membership distinguishes professionals and shops as committed to giving back to their communities. Members gain access to resources that can help them implement nationally recognized community service programs.

American Muscle offers four scholarships per year. They award two $2,000 scholarships to assist with Fall tuition and then two more for Spring. Scholarships are for students who are or will study auto mechanics or some other automotive-related major. To enter, you must submit a 700-1500 word essay to describe how you intend to use your education to support or advance the custom-car industry. Applications are submitted as pdf files on or before October 15 or July 15. While the scholarships are not renewable, you may reapply with a new essay every term.

Amount: $500

Deadline: March 31

This $500 award is intended to help vocational students across a wide range, including mechanics. It is available to any student seeking a post-secondary education at a community college, career, vocational, or trade school. To apply, all you need to do is submit an AfterCollege profile for yourself. In fact, you can continually update your profile until the final deadline.

Amount: Varies

Deadline: January 31

This $1,000 scholarship is available to Civitans and their families nationwide. The only stipulation is that the applicant, or the sponsoring Civitan, has held a membership for two years. Thus, you need to determine how your degree and career works to support Civitan ideals, as stated in their creed. Note that you must be in an accredited program, have a stellar academic record, and demonstrate financial need.

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: January 31

You don’t have to stick to your New Year’s Resolution, but to apply for MoneySolver’s scholarship prize, you must write an essay that details how you intend to keep your resolutions. Essays should be no longer than 250 words and submitted by the end of January. If you miss it this year, the scholarship should be available for next year’s resolutions. Essays are judged for creativity, writing ability, originality, and overall excellence.