Education
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Become a Car Mechanic?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

The best way to become a car mechanic is to take the recommended courses in your area to become certified, followed by intense job searching using various methods. The types of training necessary may vary based on location, but can include formal educational courses as well as apprenticeships. In some cases, both methods may be used at your discretion. Once you have become certified in automotive repair and maintenance, you can begin looking for a job by calling around to various body shops and searching job boards.

Many areas now require formal training in order for someone to become a car mechanic. These classes are generally offered at technical schools, community colleges, or specialized training centers. Names of courses may include automotive technician, mechanic, or service specialist. In some cases, you may even be able to complete training tailored to a specific car manufacturer. This would allow you to repair and maintain cars made by that car maker, making it easier to get jobs at dealerships and other places where those cars are sold exclusively.

Mechanic schools should have equipment students can practice on.
Mechanic schools should have equipment students can practice on.

Once you have obtained the training you need, you will likely be required to take an examination in order to become certified. The formal training should prepare you well for this exam. In many areas you can take the exam more than once if you do not score high enough on your first attempt.

After getting your certification, you can continue on to become a car mechanic by visiting local dealerships, body shops, and specialty shops and asking about employment opportunities. You may be asked to fill out an application. In some cases, you may be able to meet with a manager right away, so be prepared in this event.

Formal training is often required for auto mechanics.
Formal training is often required for auto mechanics.

If you don’t find the job you are looking for by visiting local mechanics, you can also become a car mechanic by opening your own business. This will require an initial start-up investment for work space, marketing, and licensing, but the income potential may be greater in the long run. To get started in business ownership, you will need to take out a loan for any funding needed and obtain a business license from your local government. Once you are up and running, you will need to develop a marketing plan to bring in customers.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Mechanic schools should have equipment students can practice on.
      By: Tyler Olson
      Mechanic schools should have equipment students can practice on.
    • Formal training is often required for auto mechanics.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Formal training is often required for auto mechanics.
    • Basic mechanic courses will teach the student how to perform routine maintenance on a vehicle.
      By: uwimages
      Basic mechanic courses will teach the student how to perform routine maintenance on a vehicle.
    • Car mechanics are responsible for replacing a vehicle's fluids.
      By: WimL
      Car mechanics are responsible for replacing a vehicle's fluids.
    • Car mechanics often have a passion for what they do.
      By: photopitu
      Car mechanics often have a passion for what they do.
    • Mechanic training programs should offer students supervised hands-on experience with diagnostics and repair.
      By: Tyler Olson
      Mechanic training programs should offer students supervised hands-on experience with diagnostics and repair.