by Updated on | $ Online Training: $750-$1,000 | $ $ Certificate Program: $5,000-$20,000 | $ $ $ Associate's Degree in Auto Mechanics: $10,000-$25,000 |
The auto mechanics are trained to inspect, maintain and repair automotive vehicles which run on gasoline, electricity or alternative fuels.
The diesel mechanics receive specialized training courses and typically enroll in separate training programs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the training of the auto mechanics can start at vocational high schools, then continue into college-level certificate or associate’s degree programs.
Typical Costs
The online auto mechanic training programs usually cost $750-$1,000.
The Stratford Career Institute, for instance, offers an auto mechanics correspondence course for $750, completed in six months to two years.
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The price includes all books, study guides, online exams, access to instructors by email or phone and a toolkit.
At the same time, Ashworth College offers a similar online program for $658.
The auto mechanic certificate program costs $5,000-$20,000 and lasts six months to two years.
Grand Rapids Community College in Michigan, for example, offers an 18-week certificate program for $5,002 for county residents and $5,478 for non-residents for tuition and fees.
At the same time, Arapahoe Community College in Littleton, CO, has a certificate program from $5,040 for residents or $19,821 for non-residents over three terms.
At the same time, an associate’s degree in auto mechanics costs $10,000-$25,000 and lasts for two years to complete.
For example, Madison Area Technical College in Wisconsin features a two-year associate’s degree program for $20,150 for tuition and fees.
The associate’s degree program at Dakota County Technical College’s costs $13,251 for tuition and fees.
The voluntary certification through the National Institute for Auto Service Excellence costs $30-$60 per test, and also $36 registration fee.
The examples of certifications include those for automobiles/light trucks, collision and refinishing, service consulting, and parts.
The licensing requirements for auto mechanics vary by state.
For example, Michigan requires all auto mechanics to take a test for each licensing area requested, for a total of $6 fee for each test and $25 total application fee.
At the same time, in Florida, mechanics in Broward County must pay a $50 licensing fee each year to practice.
Testing is not required; however, applicants are asked to show applicable national certifications.
What Is Included
- The online certificate programs usually include a set of tools and study guides to be completed in a student’s remote location.
- In-person courses add classroom instruction in addition to hands-on equipment training.
- Education Portal lists common coursework for a certificate program, such as transmission systems, engine parts, electrical systems, and automotive diagnosis, repair and maintenance.
- The associate’s degree programs include basic mathematics, classes in English, computers and business courses in addition to the auto mechanics coursework.
Additional Costs
The books, tools and other fees can add $1,000-$3,000 in addition to the total program cost for a certificate or degree program.
For example, the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, IL, estimates extra costs like $585 in lab fees, $400-$1,400 for tools and $1650 for books.
The accommodation and board can add $5,000-$10,000 to a student’s annual cost.
Vincennes University in Indiana, for instance, offers campus meals and housing plans from $7,600-$10,700 annually.
Apex Technical School in New York City estimates $8,280 per year in off-campus room, board, and other living expenses.
Discounts
The national industry associations such as the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association and regional groups, including the Minnesota Alliance of Auto Service Providers secure scholarships of $1,000 to eligible students.
The College Scholarships presents a list with a variety of automotive technology awards.
Shopping For Auto Mechanic Training
- We recommend you first read our definitive guide to becoming an auto mechanic, this will give you plenty of info on the matter.
- The National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation provides an easily searchable database of accredited programs in automotive mechanics, most of which are offered in-person rather than online.
- The National Institute for Auto Service Excellence provides a free practice test for candidates who are seeking certification.
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