Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Fresno
Are you hoping to become an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Fresno? Then it’s crucial that you take the necessary steps and acquire certifications and training appropriate for your vocation. It is just as important to be aware of laws and regulations applicable towards automotive repair, maintenance, and similar tasks within our area too.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Fresno
Residents of Fresno desiring to provide automotive maintenance and mechanical services must register as an Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) per the mandate set forth by the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). The license fee for this registration is $200 and it will need to be renewed on an annual basis.
An automotive technology program typically covers some of the following topics:
- Electrical technology
- Engine theory
- Engine repair
- Power tools
- Air conditioning
- Engine performance
- Automatic transmissions
- Electrical systems
- Brakes
- Steering
Auto Mechanic Schools in Fresno
Fresno offers several schools that offer automotive technology programs. Here are just a few of the accredited institutions in our area:
- Fresno City College. This college offers an Associate in Science degree program in Automotive Technology, which includes classes such as Electronic Fuel Injection, Vehicle Diagnostics and Ignition Systems. Other related programs offered at FCC includes Automotive Collision Repair and Auto Body Refinishing.
- UEI College. Offers a 10-month diploma program in Automotive Technology. This program combines theoretical aspects of automotive diagnostics with hands-on training in a shop environment.
Aspiring automotive technology students may qualify for financial aid. Contact the financial office of the institute you are interested in for more information.
ASE Certification
Are you looking to become a certified automotive technician? If so, the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification is your only option. Those who pass these rigorous exams receive recognition of their skill and knowledge from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence – proving that they have what it takes to be successful as an auto mechanic!
The ASE offers more than 40 certification exams. Listed below are a few of the most popular ones.
- Engine machinist certification tests
- Damage analysis and estimating certification test
- Collision repair and refinish certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
- Transit bus certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
- School bus certification tests
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- Parts specialist certification tests
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Fresno is expected to increase by 4% from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS also reports that automotive service technicians and mechanics in Fresno earned an average annual wage of $47,120 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $57,710. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $37,130 and $49,440 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Fresno
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresno, CA | 1,890 | $23,10 | $47,120 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Fresno
Working as an automotive technician in Fresno can be an exciting and rewarding career. With the right certifications, training, and knowledge of local laws and regulations, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful auto mechanic!
Sources:
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493023.htm
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm