How Long Does It Take to Become an Automotive Mechanic?

Automotive technicians are constantly presented with new challenges to tackle and solutions to find. They get to pursue their passion for vehicles while making customers and clients happy.

Learn more about what it takes to become an automotive technician and how long mechanic school is in this guide. Automotive mechanics — also known as automotive technicians — are in demand in the United States, with hundreds of thousands working at dealerships, in auto repair shops and as mobile technicians throughout the country.

Key points:

• How long does it take to become a mechanic? The path toward an entry-level automotive technician position starts with completing training. The duration can vary based on the chosen school, courses and specialties pursued. Formal postsecondary education is often preferred by employers, as it equips candidates with the necessary skills and reduces the need for extensive on-the-job training. High school graduates typically need formal automotive technician education from trade schools or postsecondary programs to become fully qualified. How long is mechanic school? Programs like the Automotive Technology program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) take about 51 weeks to complete, covering various subjects and providing hands-on practice.^1,7
• Graduates from programs like UTI's can pursue Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training and are prepared to take Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) examinations after gaining work experience. ASE certification is a recognized standard for automotive technician excellence and is preferred by many employers.
• How much do auto technicians earn? According to the BLS, the median annual salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $47,770 in May 2023.²⁵ This means half earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

What Does It Take To Be a Mechanic?

Becoming a mechanic requires a blend of automotive skill, technical training, problem-solving abilities, physical stamina and attention to detail. Essential is understanding various mechanical systems, from engines and transmissions to electrical and hydraulic systems.

Mechanics must be adept at diagnosing issues using diagnostic tools and repairing or maintaining a wide range of vehicles and equipment. Physical stamina is crucial, as the job often involves lifting heavy parts and working in challenging conditions. Attention to detail ensures repairs are done correctly, preventing future issues and ensuring safety.

Continuous learning and certification can also help techs keep up with advancing automotive technologies and industry standards. Mechanics can specialize in areas like automotive, diesel, motorcycle or heavy equipment.

Preparing for a Career as an Automotive Mechanic

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employers prefer that automotive technicians have completed a postsecondary program. While formal training is not always required, it often is.

In many cases, training can help give an applicant an advantage over someone who has not completed any. That’s because automotive technician training shows an employer you already have the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in an entry-level position, which reduces time needed for on-the-job training.

If you know you want a career as an automotive technician, the good news is that programs start every few weeks, so you can dive in when you’re ready. As long as you meet the educational requirements, you can enter into a program with no college experience required.

Is Becoming an Automotive Mechanic the Right Career for You?

Automotive technicians do a lot of problem-solving work. They use computers to diagnose vehicle issues and physically examine cars. They use hand tools and power tools to make repairs and replace parts. In addition to the physical labor, automotive technicians need to be excellent communicators and provide clear and friendly customer support.

If these skill sets interest you, you may be a good fit for a career as an automotive technician. Plus, an interest in cars, technology and design is essential.

Automotive Mechanic Education Requirements

While high school automotive courses provide a good automotive technician background, high school graduates typically need formal automotive technician education to become fully qualified, according to the BLS.

The BLS states that the best preparation for entry-level automotive technician positions is a trade school or postsecondary education program. These programs provide students with hands-on practice on vehicles.

Students can learn in a supportive environment where making mistakes is acceptable so they can eventually gain foundational automotive skills. This eliminates the need for extensive on-the-job training, although technicians at all stages in their careers continue to learn as new automotive technology emerges.

How Long Is Automotive Mechanic School?

The Automotive Technology program at Universal Technical Institute takes just 51 weeks to complete.⁷ The UTI program includes automotive courses in subjects like engine service and repair, powertrains and transmissions and vehicle brake systems. Each course is three weeks long and builds upon previously learned knowledge.

What Are the Requirements To Attend Automotive Mechanic School?

Specific requirements to attend automotive technician school vary across institutions. At UTI, for example, the requirements include students being at least 16 years old.

They also must have achieved one of the following: graduated high school, received a GED diploma or passed a state-authorized equivalent exam, completed an officially recognized homeschooling program, earned a degree at the postsecondary level or attended a Title IV-eligible program at a postsecondary institution under the Ability to Benefit provision prior to July 1, 2012.

Tuition varies from program to program. At UTI, there are automotive technician school grants and scholarships available, as well as other financial aid options, to help students pay for school.¹⁰

Automotive Mechanic Certification Programs

Upon graduating UTI’s core automotive program, graduates receive a diploma, certificate or associate degree, depending on the campus, that confirms their completion of the program. Those who choose to pursue Manufacturer-Specific Advanced Training can get additional in-depth training featuring a variety of brands.

UTI graduates are also prepared to complete Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) examinations and may use their UTI training as one of the two years of experience required to become ASE certified. As the most-recognized standard for automotive technician excellence in the industry, ASE certification is highly valued by automotive dealerships and other employers.

What Are the Job Prospects for Automotive Technicians?

According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 815,000 by 2033.⁴⁷ The BLS also states that the number of vehicles in use is expected to continue to rise, which means more entry-level service technicians will be needed to work on these vehicles.

In 2023, the largest employers of automotive mechanics and service technicians were as follows:

• Automobile dealers: 19.79%
• Automotive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance: 23.66%
• Automotive parts, accessories and tire stores: 8.76%
• Motor vehicle parts and supplies wholesalers: 3.35%

Automotive Mechanic FAQs

How much does an automotive mechanic make?

According to the BLS, the industry certification is increasingly important to become a collision repair technician. The Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) programs at UTI take 51 to 54 weeks to complete. The program was developed with leading industry brands and teaches students how to effectively use the technology, equipment and tools found in the collision repair industry.

UTI CRRT graduates receive I-CAR certificates for Non-Structural Technician Level 1, Steel Structural Technician Level I, Aluminum Structural Technician Level 1 and Refinish Technician Level 2. Students have the opportunity to pursue additional collision repair certifications during the UTI program.

Train To Become a Mechanic at UTI

If you’d like to learn more about UTI’s automotive technician training program, request more information or call 1-800-834-7308. Our Admissions team is here to help answer any questions you have.