Becoming an Automotive Technician or Mechanic in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a great place to pursue a career in automotive technology and mechanics. Automotive technicians and mechanics are responsible for diagnosing and repairing various kinds of vehicles, from cars and trucks to recreational vehicles or heavy equipment.
Requirements for becoming an Automotive Service Technician in Los Angeles
Any LA-based business or individual who is involved in the maintenance, alteration, or inspection of motor vehicles must acquire a Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) issued Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) license. This mandatory permit costs $200 and requires renewal annually.
Furthermore, a valid Automotive Repair Technician Certificate is necessary to be successful in this field. To earn said credential, one must complete four years of experience related to automotive service or finish an approved training program that has been recognized.
Those who are interested in pursuing further education can expect to learn about some of the following topics in an automotive technology program:
- Electrical systems
- Fuel systems
- Brake systems
- Automatic transmissions
- Fuel injection systems
- Light duty automotive systems
- Engine repair
- How to write mechanical repair estimates
- Emission control
- suspension systems
- Engine performance
- Emissions systems
- Computerized diagnostics and maintenance
Auto Mechanic Schools in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is host to a variety of automotive technology and mechanic programs, ranging from community colleges and private vocational schools. The following are some popular schools in Los Angeles:
- Universal Technical Institute. This school provides a wealth of automotive technology degree programs, from their 12-week BMW Fast Track program to the 15-week Ford Accelerated Credential Training (FACT) initiative. The General Motors Technician Career Program is also offered in a span of 15 weeks. Moreover, students can select from specialized training initiatives with Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota Volvo and NASCAR among many others. Plus, this institution offers various diesel classes for you choose as well!
- East Los Angeles College. ELAC’s Automobile Technology program is certified by NATEF in all 8 areas of auto repair and boasts a modern facility, complete with sophisticated diagnostic equipment, computers, engine components, smart classrooms, an information library and specialized tools. This advanced training environment prepares our students to excel as automotive technicians upon graduation.
ASE Certification
Being certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is an invaluable marker of competence in the automotive industry, and one that gives job seekers a remarkable edge when searching for employment or promotion possibilities. To receive ASE accreditation, individuals must pass several assessments which authenticate their expertise with various vehicle systems. Having this certification will be beneficial to any professional looking to stand out from the competition.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
Employment for automotive technicians and mechanics in Los Angeles is expected to grow 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 Los Angeles earned an average annual wage of $49,930 as of May 2021, while bus and truck mechanics and diesel specialists earned an annual wage of $62,140. Automotive glass installers and automotive body and related repairers earned annual salaries of $38,030 and $47,180 respectively.
Auto Mechanic Salaries in Los Angeles
| Region | Total Employed | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 17,540 | $25,40 | $49,930 |
Working as an Auto Mechanic in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is an automotive lover’s paradise, with a vibrant car culture and a variety of shops dedicated to servicing those vehicles. From performance-enhancing modifications to repairing classic automobiles, there are plenty of opportunities for you to find auto mechanic jobs in the City of Angels.
Sources:
- QuickFacts, U.S. Census Bureau, accessed September 28, 2021, http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/06/0644000.html
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, accessed September 28, 2022, 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, accessed September 28, 2022, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/automotive-service-technicians-and-mechanics.htm
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*This list may contain out-of-state and online schools that accept students from Los Angeles.