Last Updated on July 30, 2023
How much does it really cost to become a certified mechanic? That’s the question I set out to answer when I recently started this blog. And though the average cost of getting all the schooling and certifications needed to become a mechanic vary widely among individual mechanics, there is one thing that all potential student mechanics should realize before enrolling in any mechanic school: Mechanics can be some of the highest paid blue-collar workers in America—earning more than $50,000 a year even for beginners. Many can earn over $100,000 just one to two years after completing their training, especially if they find work as an auto technician working on luxury cars or hours before or during the day.
Collegelearners will provide you with all the relevant information you are looking for on How Much Does It Cost To Become A Certified Mechanic, how much do certified mechanics make a year, How to Become a Mechanic, best auto mechanic school, and so much more.
How much does it cost to become a mechanic?
Postsecondary automotive programs may cost between $5,000 and $12,000 in annual tuition. Depending on where you work, you may need to buy your own tools, which can be a long-term investment costing thousands of dollars.
How Much Does Automotive School Cost?
The good news if you’re planning on pursuing a career in automotive repair is this: Your education isn’t going to cost you as much as a brand-new Corvette. But don’t expect your education to be free either.
If you’re giving significant thought to entering the automotive repair field, it’s wise to first consider the cost. After all, education has been quite pricey these days, generally for any subject.
And in this career field, you’ll want to find a school that will allow you to complete your training quickly so you can find automotive jobs and start earning a solid salary.
Earning a Living as an Auto Tech
Today’s automotive technicians are trained to inspect, maintain, and repair a variety of vehicles that operate on gasoline, electricity, or even alternative fuels. Mechanics who want to specialize in diesel-fueled vehicles must receive specialized training courses and usually enroll in a separate training program.
The process for becoming an automotive technician can begin in high school through a vocational program. Or the path could begin in college where you can earn a college-level certificate or complete an associate degree program.
So, how much does automotive school cost?
The following estimates can help you determine what you can afford for the type of career opportunity you’re hoping to pursue in this field.
Online Automotive Training Programs
These programs typically cost about $1,000 or less. Some schools offer online automotive technician correspondence courses for about $750. You may also need to factor in other expenses, such as textbooks, study guides, online exams, and other resources.
These courses can be completed in as little as six months—or up to two years—entirely through remote learning.
Certificate Programs
Expect to pay $6,000 to $20,000 for automotive technology certificate programs’ tuition and fees. With a wider variety in how these programs are set up, you may pay less for a basic certificate or more for one that includes specialized instruction in specific brands, technologies, or equipment.
Certificate programs can be as short as 18 weeks or take as long as two years.
Associate Degrees
An associate degree program in auto technology generally costs between $10,000 and $25,000. Tuition costs at automotive schools can vary greatly based on the demand and reputation of the associate degree program. Like other college programs, sometimes you pay extra for the name or esteem of a given learning institution.
Associate degrees are typically designed to be completed in about two years.
Voluntary Certifications
You can also anticipate additional charges for voluntary certifications through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
Examples of certifications include those for automobiles/light trucks, collision and refinishing, service consulting, and parts. ASE certification tests cost $47 (or $94 for advanced level tests), plus a $34 registration fee.
Licensing Requirements
And last—but not least—automotive technicians must also take into account licensing requirements that vary by state.
For example, auto mechanics in Michigan are required to take a licensing test for each type of repair they’ll be doing. The exams cost $6 each, and there’s a $25 fee for the certification application.
Additional Costs
What does the cost of your education get you—besides the tuition itself? Online certificate programs often include automotive tools and related study materials as part of their fees. For classes that can be taken in person, your tuition will cover classroom lectures, instruction, and hands-on training with equipment.
As with any college-level course or certificate program, you can expect to pay additional fees for books, tools, and other enrollment costs that can raise the total program expense by as much as $1,000–$3,000. These should be factored in before you enroll so you aren’t caught off guard!
Living away from home—if you haven’t lived on your own before—can also add significant expenses to your college budget. Room and board, for example, could add $10,000 or more to your annual cost.CHECK OUT SCHOOLS THAT OFFER THIS PROGRAM
Scholarships
Worried about affording your education? Luckily, there are plenty of resources to help you make the investment in your future!
Check out national automotive industry associations and regional groups to see if you can apply or qualify for scholarship funds. You can also search for lists of available scholarship programs online to help make the cost of your education more affordable.
And, of course, you can apply for a scholarship worth up to $1,000 toward the cost of your tuition at schools that participate in the Imagine America scholarship programs.
Register With Imagine America To Be Matched With Automotive Schools That Offer Our Scholarships!
How to Become a Mechanic
If you’re serious about becoming a mechanic, you will need formal education and in-depth training to compete in the automotive field. These steps provide an overview of what it takes.
Step 1Do Some Homework
Career mechanics have physically demanding jobs. Plus, they must dedicate time to improving and continuously learning about new technology. Before you commit to the vocation, here are a few ways to make sure you’re ready:
- Read up: Read popular car magazines for consumers, like Car and Driver, and publications for technicians, like Auto Service Professional. Find car service manuals and read them cover to cover. See if these technical details interest you and if you can remember the information.
- Practice: If you grew up fixing cars, you have a head start. If not, practice on your car if you have one.
- Help out: Ask around at local repair shops to see if they will let you do some work without education and certification. You might start with detailing work — vacuuming, cleaning, and washing cars. It will give you a chance to experience the job environment and ask the pros questions.
Step 2Complete a High School Education
Most employers want applicants with a high school diploma or equivalency. This credential shows them that you have the basic math, science, and reasoning knowledge you’ll need for the job. In most states, you can complete the GED tests in a few months for around $80 to $140.
Step 3Complete a Mechanic Training Program
You have options when it comes to selecting an education program. Here are some:
- Trade and Vocational Schools
- Community College
- Military
- Car Mechanic School
These schools offer certificates and diplomas. Some trade schools partner with high schools, so you can train for your career while earning your high school degree.
Step 4Become Entry-Level Certified
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) develops tests for automotive technicians to demonstrate their expertise in various specialties. The ASE entry-level certification consists of eight tests. It covers:
- Engine repair
- Brakes
- Electrical systems
- Suspension
- Steering
You don’t need experience to take the entry-level test. So, take the test during or after your educational program — whenever you think you’re ready. You can also take practice tests and follow test-prep checklists on the ASE’s website.Step 5Complete an Apprenticeship or Internship
Some mechanics complete apprenticeships, but not all do. An associate degree program will likely require you to participate in an internship or other fieldwork for a semester.
Suppose a major car dealership hires you as an entry-level mechanic. In that case, you may need to work as an apprentice for eight weeks or more before earning the automotive technician title.
Step 5Get Hired as a Mechanic
According to the BLS, about a third of car mechanics work at dealerships. Another third work at repair shops.
In either environment, you’ll start working on less diagnostic and more predictable projects, like changing oil and lubricant and assisting certified technicians. You will need one to two years of work experience before becoming eligible to take the ASE certification exam.
Step 6Become a Certified Professional Technician
You can take the ASE test series to become a certified professional technician after two years of combined experience and education. (That is, you can work for two years or complete a one-year degree and one year of training.) The ASE label signifies that you have the foundational experience and knowledge for work as an automotive technician.
Step 7Keep Learning
Technology changes quickly, especially when it comes to cars. As an automotive mechanic, you’ll need to keep up with the latest developments. Continue learning throughout your career by attending training and conferences, joining committees, and participating in industry networking events.
how much do certified mechanics make
ASE Certified Mechanic Salary
The average salary for all auto service technicians and mechanics was $42,090 a year as of May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest paid 10 percent made $24,400 or less per year, while the highest paid 10 percent made $68,880 or more. Half of all mechanics made between $31,250 and $56,140 a year.
According to Payscale, the average salary for ASE certified technician is considerably higher: $60,629 a year as of December 2020.
Many employers also offer commission based on the volume of work, according to the BLS. Since experienced certified mechanics might be able to complete work more quickly, they might also be able to take home more commission pay.
Salary Variations
The salary for those with a certified mechanic license varies based on a variety of factors. A mechanic with several certifications or a Master Automobile Technician is likely to be paid a higher hourly wage than a non-certified or less-certified mechanic. Pay can also depend on the type of employer and location.
The BLS reports that the gas and aerospace industries offer the best salaries for certified mechanics, of $69,930 and $69,000 respectively. By contrast, automotive repair and maintenance shops paid an average of $39,820 a year as of May 2019.
Among the states, mechanics in the District of Columbia earned the highest salary of $61,350. Alaska is next, at $53,110. States on the lower end of the scale included Mississippi, at an average of $38,600 a year; and Arkansas, at $38,970.
Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $71,000 | $5,916 | $1,365 | $34 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,000 | $4,833 | $1,115 | $28 |
| Average | $50,760 | $4,230 | $976 | $24 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,500 | $3,458 | $798 | $20 |
