How Long Does It Take to Become a Mechanic? A Complete Guide

If you’re interested in a hands-on career working with vehicles, becoming a mechanic is a great option that doesn’t require a 4-year college degree. But before jumping in, it’s important to understand how long the process takes to get trained, certified and employed as a professional automotive mechanic

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the key steps and timeline to launch your mechanic career, from initial research to completing your training to getting hired for your first job. Read on to learn how long it really takes and what to expect along the way.

Overview of the Mechanic Career Path

The typical process to become a fully certified mechanic spans 1-2 years for education and training followed by 1-2 years gaining hands-on experience before full certification. Here are the main steps

• Step 1: Research mechanic careers and complete high school (1-4 years)

• Step 2 Enroll in mechanic training program (6 months – 2 years)

• Step 3: Complete ASE certification exams (variable timing)

• Step 4: Gain experience in entry level mechanic jobs (1-2 years)

• Step 5: Earn ASE Professional Technician certification (2+ years experience required)

• Step 6: Continue advancing skills through work experience and specialty training (ongoing)

Next, let’s look at each of these steps in more detail.

Step 1: Career Research and High School

First, spend time learning about what mechanic careers entail and make sure it aligns with your interests and abilities. Talk to mechanics, tour local shops, and learn about the day-to-day work.

You’ll also want to complete high school or earn a GED, which provides fundamental skills in math, science, and reading to qualify for mechanic training programs. This step can take 1-4 years depending on if you’re currently in high school or need to earn a GED.

Step 2: Enroll in Mechanic Training Program

The next key step is completing a formal training program through a vocational school, community college, or apprenticeship program. These programs teach core skills like vehicle systems, engine repair, brakes, transmissions, inspections, and other specialized areas.

Training programs can range from as little as 6 months for a basic certificate up to 2 years for a more extensive associate’s degree. Programs that prepare you for ASE certification exams are recommended.

Step 3: Pass ASE Certification Exams

Gaining certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is crucial for proving your abilities as a mechanic. You can start taking ASE exams at any point once you start training.

There are eight exams to pass for initial ASE Automobile & Light Truck Certification. Each exam costs $46 and is focused on a different system like brakes, electrical, or engine repair. Study materials and practice tests can help you prepare.

On average, completing all eight exams can take 6 months to a year, but depends on your pace of study and readiness. Gaining on-the-job experience prior to testing is beneficial.

Step 4: Get Experience Through Entry Level Jobs

After finishing training and getting certified, most new mechanics start by working 1-2 years in basic maintenance and repair jobs at dealerships, shops, or fleet vehicle companies.

These entry-level roles allow you to develop skills under more experienced technicians. Expect starting pay around $15-$20/hour. With initiative and strong performance, many move up into advanced repair work within a year.

Step 5: Earn Professional Mechanic Certification

Once you have 2+ years of experience, you’ll qualify to take the exams to become an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician. This involves passing eight more advanced ASE tests.

Earning your professional certifications can take an additional 6 months to a year depending on your preparation. This designation proves your abilities across all major systems and significantly boosts your career opportunities and earning potential to $50,000-$70,000 per year.

Step 6: Advance Your Career with Ongoing Training

A mechanic career offers ongoing opportunities to advance your skills through specialty certifications, manufacturer training, and management roles.

Pursuing specialties like driveability diagnostics, alternative fuels, or collision repair can increase your expertise. Manufacturer-specific training is also valued.

With experience, you may move into shop foreman, service manager, or shop owner roles. Continual learning and improvement is key for advancement.

What Factors Impact the Timeline?

The time it takes to become a certified mechanic depends on several factors:

• Education path – Trade school programs are faster than community college degrees. Apprenticeships integrate work experience.

• Study pace – Preparing thoroughly for ASE exams adds time, but leads to higher payoffs. Rushing through diminishes retention.

• Existing skills/knowledge – Prior auto repair experience accelerates the learning curve in training programs.

• Job opportunities – A tight job market means more time in lower-level jobs before advancing.

• Initiative & dedication – Driven professionals progress faster through self-study and seeking opportunities.

Regardless of your exact timeline, following the key steps outlined above will get you on the path to a rewarding mechanic career.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re considering becoming a mechanic, you likely have plenty of questions about the time commitment required. Here are answers to some common FAQs.

How long is mechanic school?

Mechanic trade school programs range from 6 months to 2 years. Shorter certificates focus on basics, while longer associate’s degrees offer comprehensive training. Programs with cooperative work experience take longer but provide an employment edge.

Should I get ASE certified before getting a job?

It’s recommended to get some hands-on experience prior to taking ASE certification exams. Many training programs prepare you specifically for ASE tests. After 1-2 years of work experience, you’ll be in a better position to pass the exams.

How long does it take to get ASE master certified?

You must have 2+ years of mechanic work experience before qualifying to take the exams to earn your ASE Master Technician certification. Then, passing the eight advanced exams can take an additional 6 months to a year or more depending on your preparation.

Can I become a mechanic in less than a year?

It’s highly unlikely you can become a fully certified master mechanic in less than a year. But within a year, you can complete mechanic training, get entry-level ASE certified, and start working basic maintenance jobs to gain experience. Just expect the full process to take 1-2 years minimum.

What is the fastest way to become a mechanic?

The fastest path is to complete a condensed 6-12 month trade school program, focus intently on passing ASE exams, and be willing to start in unpaid internships or apprenticeships at reputable shops to get experience quickly. However, this accelerated route is challenging.

Is Becoming a Mechanic Worth the Time Investment?

It takes dedication to complete the education and experience needed to become a certified mechanic. But for those with a passion for working on vehicles, the career payoffs make the time investment well worth it.

Mechanics earn a good living doing hands-on work they enjoy without taking on massive college debt. And with each new skill and certification, your earning potential continues to grow throughout your career.

By following the steps outlined here and being strategic in pursuing opportunities, you can minimize the time investment needed to prepare yourself for success as a professional mechanic.