Automotive technicians diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and light trucks — from engines and brakes to increasingly complex electronics, hybrids, and EV systems. As vehicles grow more computerized, skilled techs who can read diagnostics and fix modern systems are in steady demand across dealerships, independent shops, and fleets.
Starting ~$16–$20/hr. Oil changes, tire rotations, basic maintenance while learning under senior techs.
After ASE certs. $22–$30/hr. Handling diagnostics and most repairs independently.
All 8 ASE areas certified. $30–$40+/hr. Taking on the toughest diagnostic and electrical work.
Leading a team or running your own shop. Income scales with the business.
Your skills and interests may align with more than one trade. Compare before committing.
Our Salary Compare tool shows Automotive Technician wages at every experience level — and compares them against other trades and a 4-year degree path.
Compare Automotive Technician Salaries →Registered apprenticeships pay you from day one. There is no national list of open seats — programs recruit on their own schedules. The way in is to find the programs near you and ask when they take applications.
Find programs near you → Browse Trade SchoolsThe DOL Partner Finder lists registered apprenticeship sponsors — employers and organizations that run programs. Search Automotive Technician and your state, then call the ones near you and ask when they accept applications. Some open once a year.y or ZIP to see what's open near you.