Overview

An online mechanic certification program helps you develop the skills and knowledge you need to inspect, diagnose and repair vehicles. These programs give you base knowledge needed to prepare for your industry certification, such as the National Institute for Automobile Service Excellence (ASE) certification exams. Pursuing an online mechanic certification program can be a valuable step in preparing for a career as a mechanic, an auto technician or an autobody repair technician.

Such careers offer many opportunities. According to The Drive, there’s a dramatic shortage in mechanics certified to work on electric vehicles, and given the increased popularity of electric vehicles, we could see a significant problem in servicing the vehicles. The Drive reports that more than 655,000 Americans were employed in automotive services in 2019, but just 229,000 of those Americans were certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Of those, just 3,100 were certified to service electric vehicles.

Similarly, Driver News reports that an auto technician shortage is caused by more retirees leaving jobs open and a lack of instructors available to teach students. “It isn’t just challenging for use,” says Dara Goroff, I-CAR Planning & Industry Talent Programming Vice President. “A lot of MSOs, like Gerber and Caliber, have stood up their own proprietary programs working very closely with I-CAR, actually, but the independents are struggling with the same issue. And when we say shops are down two-and-a-half technicians, we mean that across the board.”

The shortage is having such an impact on the industry that I-CAR has created a new talent programming initiative to teach students the essentials of automotive repair while also teaching shops HR best practices. “We will be creating marketing materials including a talent attraction website that is meant to open a funnel to bring interested parties, or those who didn’t even know that they might be interested, to the industry,” explains Goroff.

These shortages mean there is tremendous opportunity for new mechanics, including for those who may want to become certified to work on electric vehicles. Mechanics can work in many settings, including for repair shops, auto dealerships and government organizations. Additionally, mechanics have the option of starting their own businesses and being self-employed.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics earned a median annual wage of $49,670 in 2024. Mechanics who worked for automotive dealerships earned slightly more.

What to expect in an online mechanic certification program

An online mechanic certification program will include coursework on essential topics and procedures. Expect to learn about automotive shop procedures, such as scheduling, ordering parts and invoicing and billing. You’ll learn about vehicle diagnostic techniques and systems, as well as troubleshooting and how to read vehicle diagnostics codes. Coursework will also include an exploration of vehicle systems, including gas and fuel, brake, steering and suspension, tire, electronic and emissions systems. Additionally, courses will cover safety procedures and how to appropriately handle materials like gas and oil.

Your certification program may include an experiential learning opportunity, like an internship, but you will probably need to take an active role in finding a local mechanic or shop willing to oversee the internship. Internships can provide valuable opportunities to put your knowledge to use, and you’ll gain hands-on experience that can help to solidify the skills you’ve been learning.

Some states require mechanics to become licensed, and specific requirements will depend on your state. States typically require you to have a minimum amount of work experience, training or certification as well as to pass an examination and pay a license fee. You will need to renew your license, often annually.

If your state doesn’t require licensure, it’s still a good idea to earn one or more mechanic certifications. Certifications can make you a more competitive candidate and may increase your chances of getting hired. They can also boost customers’ confidence in you and may help you to attract new customers.

In addition to getting your online mechanic certification, there are several types of other certifications available for mechanics:

• The ASE certification is one of the largest, most widely recognized certification available in nine specialties, including brakes, engine repair, and heating and air conditioning.
• Manufacturer certification is offered by individual manufacturers, and allows you to work on certain vehicle makes.
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires any automobile mechanic who works on air conditioners to receive training and pass a certification test.

Types of certifications you can earn

Checklist for choosing the right program

• Does the program align with your career goals?: Before you choose a program, define your career goals. Are you planning to pursue ASE certification? Do you want to perform an internship? If so, look for a program that will help you achieve those specific goals.
• Did you evaluate the program’s reputation?: Carefully evaluate each program’s reputation. If you’re planning to try to secure an internship or get your first job as a mechanic, having earned a certification from a reputable program can make you a more competitive candidate and may help your resume to stand out.
• Use cost-effective decision making: It’s also important to consider the cost of each program and how it fits into your budget. The lowest-priced program might seem like it delivers the best value, but consider what you’ll be getting out of each program in exchange for its cost. A program that helps prepare you for ASE certification or that helps you secure an internship might be worth a higher investment in your career.
• Is the program accredited?: Accreditation helps confirm that you’ll be receiving a quality education from a program. Employers may want to see that you’ve completed an accredited program.  For example, there are numerous ASE-accredited training programs that can help you prepare for the certification exam and that make impressive additions to your resume.

Tips for success in your program

Browse our selection of online auto mechanic programs

Resources for students

Several professional organizations offer resources for mechanics:

• The Automotive Service Association (ASA) supports owners and managers of automotive service businesses through advocacy, webinars, podcasts and other events.
• The Automotive Maintenance & Repair Association runs a Motorist Assurance Program that repair shops can implement to improve customer trust in their business.
• The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers numerous certifications for mechanics, as well as test prep and training resources.

Scholarships may be available for trade school programs and certification programs. You can search for scholarships online, and can also inquire about any available financial aid with the institution offering your certification program.

Getting started

Through an online mechanic certification program, you can develop key skills and knowledge that can support you in your career as a mechanic or automotive technician. If you plan to pursue a certification, like the ASE certification, completing an online certification program can be a good first step in preparing for that exam. Certification programs can also demonstrate your commitment to your career to potential employers, and may help to make your resume stand out.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career as an automotive mechanic, explore available online mechanic certification programs today.

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