Vehicles serve as a lifeline for millions of people every day, getting them to work, school, grocery stores, medical appointments and more. So when it comes to auto repair and maintenance, it’s important that the professionals working on their cars have the proper qualifications.
At the same time, auto repair shop owners want to protect their business’s reputation. In order to keep customers satisfied, they need skilled employees who can reliably deliver good results in terms of both performance and safety.
Some states help fulfill these needs through mechanic licensing requirements. Additionally, many mechanics choose to pursue nationally recognized certifications for specific types of auto service and repair work.
Because the answer to “do mechanics need a license?” varies so much from one state to the next, we’ve created this helpful guide to auto mechanic license requirements. In this guide, you’ll find answers to common concerns for mechanics, including:
- What should I know about how to become a certified mechanic in the U.S.?
- Do you need a license to work as a mechanic in your state?
- How to become a licensed mechanic
- Do you need a mechanic license to open a shop?
What should I know about how to become a certified mechanic in the U.S.?
Although auto mechanic license requirements do not apply in every state, certification generally increases the chances of employment and may be tied to higher wages.
Additionally, formal training through post-secondary programs or trade schools may also contribute to better pay and more opportunities for career advancement. The most popular options for enhancing your credentials as a mechanic include:
ASE certification
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is one of the largest accrediting organizations for auto technicians. While mechanic licensing requirements vary from state to state, certifications from the ASE are widely recognized throughout the auto service and repair industry in the U.S.
The ASE offers certification in nine main automobile specialties:
- A1: Engine repair
- A2: Automatic transmission/transaxle
- A3: Manual drivetrain and axles
- A4: Suspension and steering
- A5: Brakes
- A6: Electrical/electronic systems
- A7: Heating and air conditioning
- A8: Engine performance
- A9: Light vehicle diesel engines
Additional certifications are available in related areas, such as:
- B2: Painting and refinishing
- B3: Non-structural analysis and damage repair
- B4: Structural analysis and damage repair
- B5: Mechanical and electrical components
- B6: Damage analysis and estimating
- C1: Automobile service consultant
- G1: Auto maintenance and light repair
- L1: Advanced engine performance specialist
In order to qualify for certification, auto technicians must pass a test and meet one of the following training requirements:
- Two years of on-the-job training
- One year of on-the-job training and a two-year degree in automotive repair
All ASE-certified mechanics must retest every five years to maintain their certification. ASE Master Automobile Technician status applies to auto mechanics who have certification in tests A1 through A8.
Manufacturer certification
Auto mechanics may choose to pursue additional certifications to work on specific vehicle makes. For example, you could obtain BMW certification or Subaru certification, which may make you a more attractive candidate for certain auto dealerships. Requirements vary by manufacturer but generally involve work experience, training courses and testing.
Refrigerant certification
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all technicians who service motor vehicle air conditioners (MVAC) to obtain certification in proper refrigerant handling according to Section 609 regulations from the Clean Air Act. Technicians must undergo training and pass a certification test that covers the following topics:
- Regulatory requirements
- Refrigerant containment
- Environmental effects
- Use of recycling equipment in compliance with industry standards
Technicians must complete their training and certification through an EPA-approved program. This requirement applies to all auto technicians throughout the U.S. who work on MVAC equipment and does not vary from state to state.
If your shop is certified you can save up to 19% when you bundle general liability with commercial property coverage with NEXT. Qualifying certifications are ASE, I-CAR (Gold class) and AAA-approved auto repair.
Do you need a license to work as a mechanic in your state?
There are over 703,000 auto service technicians and mechanics in the U.S. But depending on where you’re located, licensing requirements for mechanics may differ.
Do you need a license to be a mechanic where you live? Our convenient state-by-state guide below will help you determine which type of mechanic licenses or certifications you need.
How to become a licensed mechanic
Most mechanics don’t need to have a license in order to work. Mechanics in states that do require an auto mechanic’s license generally need to meet minimum work experience requirements and pass an examination.
In some cases, states waive certain experience or testing requirements for those with current ASE certifications.
Do you need a mechanic license to open a shop?
If you plan to work as a mechanic in your own shop, you’ll need to obtain any business licenses or certifications required in your state. The exact process for how to get a mechanic license for a business varies by location, but many states have an online portal with all the information you need.
In addition, you must secure any licenses or permits that your city, county or state requires to operate this type of business, which may include zoning and environmental permits.
Some mechanics choose to start a mobile mechanic business, which means they provide services on the road rather than from a single shop location. This may require a mobile mechanic business license since operations are carried out in a different manner.
Make sure you apply for the appropriate type of business license or permit and that you get the right car mechanic insurance to help protect your shop. (More on that below).
Alabama
Auto mechanics in Alabama do not need to have a license in order to work.
If you’re an auto technician in this state, you may want to pursue ASE certification to improve your job opportunities. Some auto mechanics in Alabama receive formal training through programs at community colleges, such as Lawson State, Bevill State, Wallace State and Bishop State.
Alaska
No mechanic license requirements apply for auto techs in Alaska.
ASE certifications or an educational degree may help technicians accrue the skills and training needed to apply for higher-paying jobs. Programs for auto mechanics are available through a number of institutions, including the University of Alaska Anchorage, University of Alaska Southeast and University of Alaska Fairbanks Community and Technical College.
Arizona
In Arizona, auto mechanics do not need to obtain a professional license.
However, some service and repair technicians may choose to become certified or complete a formal training program in order to improve their odds of getting hired and earning a higher salary. Several schools, including the Arizona Automotive Institute and East Valley Institute of Technology, offer programs that prepare students for ASE certification.
Arkansas
Auto mechanics in Arkansas are not required to be licensed by the state.
Those who wish to obtain training for this profession often pursue ASE certification or complete a vocational training program. Educational institutions like North Arkansas College, Arkansas State University Newport and Arkansas Tech University offer degree or certificate programs to prepare students to work as auto service and repair technicians.
California
In California, any individual or business that repairs, alters or diagnoses malfunctions of motor vehicles must register as an Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) with the Bureau of Automotive Repair. This license costs $200 and must be renewed annually.
Mechanic license requirements and fees also apply to any person who works in one or more of the following roles:
- Brake adjuster: $10
- Lamp adjuster: $10
- Smog check inspector: $20
- Smog check repair technician: $20
To receive your license, you must meet state requirements for work experience, training or certification and pass an examination. You must renew your license every four years (for brake and lamp adjusters) or every two years (for smog check inspectors and repair techs).
Colorado
Colorado does not have a mechanic licensing requirement for auto service and repair technicians.
If you plan to work as a mechanic in this state, you’ll likely find that formal training or ASE certifications improve your job prospects. Colorado has a number of ASE-certified automotive technician programs available, including those at Arapahoe Community College and Front Range Community College.
Connecticut
General auto mechanics do not need to apply for licensure in Connecticut.
However, you must obtain certification from the state in order to become a Certified Test Inspector or Certified Emissions Repair Technician for the Connecticut Vehicle Emissions Program. Requirements include:
- Certified Test Inspector: Completion of an online training program and passing a certification exam. You must renew your certification every two years.
- Certified Emissions Repair Technician: Proof of ASE L1 advanced engine performance specialist training or factory training documents which demonstrate your qualifications to work on a specific vehicle make. You must renew your certification every three years.
Once you receive your certification, you may work at any emissions testing center or Certified Emissions Repair Facility in Connecticut.
Delaware
You don’t need to be a licensed mechanic in order to work in Delaware.
However, in order to complete certain types of emissions repairs work, you must apply to become a Certified Emission Repair Technician through the Division of Air Quality at the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Requirements include:
- ASE L1 advanced engine performance specialist certification (or equivalent)
- At least two years of emission repair experience
This certification requires a fee of $125 with renewal required every five years.
Florida
Individual auto mechanics do not need to be licensed in Florida.
If you wish to improve your job prospects, however, you can become certified in specific auto service and repair skills through ASE. Many schools in the state, including Florida Career College, Broward College and Atlantic Technical College, offer formal training programs in automotive service technology.
Georgia
You don’t need to have a license in order to work as an auto mechanic in Georgia.
In the 13-county Atlanta metropolitan area, vehicles must undergo yearly emissions testing. Mechanics who want to be a certified vehicle emissions inspector in this state must complete a two-day training course held by Georgia’s Clean Air Force and pass a written examination.
Hawaii
Auto mechanics in Hawaii must be licensed by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Board.
Hawaii’s mechanic license classifications directly correspond to certification tests available through ASE, so you must have at least one ASE certification in order to apply. You may apply to have classifications added to your license later on if you pass more ASE certification tests.
You must also demonstrate that you meet the work experience requirements for ASE certifications. This includes two or more years of hands-on experience, although you may substitute formal training for part of this work experience requirement.
Idaho
In Idaho, auto mechanics don’t need to be licensed in order to work.
Many repair shops prefer to hire applicants with one or more ASE certifications. You may also want to complete a formal training program to improve your job prospects. Several educational institutions, such as Idaho State University, North Idaho College and College of Eastern Idaho, offer both certificate and degree programs in automotive technology.
Illinois
You do not need any type of professional license to work as an auto mechanic in Illinois.
The state’s vehicle emissions testing program requires emissions inspectors to complete an approved training course and pass a test with written and hands-on portions. Additionally, technicians who complete emissions repairs are generally expected to have nationally recognized certification for emissions-related automotive work.
Indiana
Indiana does not maintain any mechanic licensing requirements.
However, ASE certifications and formal training can help you get a job as a mechanic in this state. Indiana State University offers a bachelor of science (BS) in automotive engineering technology that includes an off-campus internship experience.
Some of the other educational institutions offering degrees and/or certificates in automotive technology include Vincennes University and Ivy Tech Community College.
Iowa
Auto mechanics in Iowa do not need to be licensed in order to perform vehicle repairs and maintenance.
However, training and certification can improve your chances of securing a job in this field. In fact, the Iowa Consumer Protection Division advises vehicle owners to specifically seek out ASE-certified mechanics. Options for formal education programs include Des Moines Area Community College and Kirkwood Community College.
Kansas
You do not need to get a professional license to work as an auto mechanic in Kansas.
Instead, most vehicle repair professionals work toward ASE certification in order to improve their marketability to potential employers. Preparation for taking various certification tests can be gained through hands-on experience working in a repair shop or completing a formal training program like those offered at Pittsburg State University, Wichita State University and Kansas City Kansas Community College.
Kentucky
If you want to work as an auto mechanic in Kentucky, you don’t need a professional license.
Getting certified in one or more ASE-recognized specialties can open up more job opportunities in this industry. If you need to prepare for the certification tests, you can find training programs at educational institutions like Bluegrass Community and Technical College, West Kentucky Community and Technical College and Jefferson Community and Technical College.
Louisiana
In Louisiana, no license requirements apply for auto mechanics.
However, many professionals in this field pursue ASE certification to improve their job prospects and potential earnings. Several schools, such as Northwest Louisiana Technical College and Southwest Louisiana Technical Community College, have formal training programs designed specifically to prepare students to pass ASE certification tests.
Maine
You don’t need to obtain a professional license to work as an auto mechanic in this state.
Maine requires annual vehicle inspections, however, and any individual who performs these inspections or signs inspection certificates must have an inspection mechanic certificate.
In order to obtain this certification, you must submit an application to the Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of State Police and pass an examination. You must renew your certificate every five years.
Maryland
You do not need to meet any mechanic licensing requirements to work in Maryland.
Instead of licensure, many professionals in this field get ASE certifications to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Formal training programs like those offered at Community College of Baltimore County and Montgomery College help prepare students to pass ASE certification exams.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts auto mechanics do not need to obtain a professional license.
The state does, however, encourage vehicle owners to look for ASE-certified mechanics when choosing a repair shop. Therefore, getting certified may improve your job prospects and earning potential.
Formal training programs at schools like Springfield Technical Community College and Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology help prepare students to pass ASE certification exams.
Michigan
You must have a professional certification issued by the Secretary of State to work as an auto mechanic in Michigan. You may pursue certification in one or more of the following categories depending on the nature of your work:
- Engine repair
- Engine tune-up/performance
- Front end, suspension and steering systems
- Brakes and braking systems
- Automatic transmission
- Manual transmission
- Electrical systems
- Heating and air conditioning
- Collision-related mechanical repair
- Unitized body structural repair
- Pre-1973 vehicles
No minimum work experience requirements apply for these categories. Instead, you must register for individual tests for each mechanic license online, then pass your selected tests with a score of 65 percent or higher. The state waives certain testing requirements for those who have previously obtained ASE certification in corresponding categories.
Mechanics certified in the first eight categories from the list above are considered Master Automobile Mechanics. Michigan also offers mechanic trainee permits for those who have not yet received adequate training to pass their certification tests.
Minnesota
No professional licensing or certification requirements apply for auto mechanics in Minnesota.
You may want to obtain ASE certifications or complete additional training to enhance your skills and qualify for more job opportunities. Certain educational institutions in the state, including Hennepin Technical College, Saint Paul College and Minnesota State Community and Technical College, offer formal training programs for auto service and repair.
Mississippi
As an auto mechanic in Mississippi, you do not need to have a professional license.
You’ll likely find that prior training and certification on your resume makes you a more attractive candidate for auto service and repair positions. Several schools in the state offer applicable certificates and degrees, including East Mississippi Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and Itawamba Community College.
Missouri
In Missouri, you do not need to have a professional license for mechanics.
Nationally recognized certifications through ASE may help you obtain a job in this state. Training programs at schools like Saint Louis Community College, Ozarks Technical Community College and Jefferson College help prepare students to pass ASE certification tests.
Montana
You won’t need a professional license in order to work as an auto mechanic in Montana.
However, many professionals in this industry undergo training and obtain ASE certifications to demonstrate their skills to potential employers. A certificate or associate’s degree in automotive technology is a common training option, or you may pursue a bachelor’s degree in this field at schools like Montana State University-Northern.
Nebraska
Nebraska does not require auto mechanics to hold a professional license.
Instead, many employers look for applicants who have already obtained ASE certifications across a variety of auto service and repair specialties. To prepare for certification testing, you’ll need to work as a trainee at a repair shop or complete an educational program.
Schools like Metropolitan Community College, Mid-Plains Community College and Western Nebraska Community College offer certificate and associate’s degree programs in this field.
Nevada
You do not need to get a professional license to work as an auto mechanic in this state.
Generally, mechanics with ASE certifications have more employment opportunities as well as higher earnings. In Nevada, you can gain the experience needed to pass these tests through hands-on training at a repair shop or training programs at schools like the College of Southern Nevada, Truckee Meadows Community College and Western Nevada College.
New Hampshire
Auto mechanics in New Hampshire do not need to have a professional license.
However, if you want to work at a shop that performs vehicle safety inspections (a requirement for all vehicles within 10 days of registration), you must attend an educational session hosted by the Division of Motor Vehicles. After attending the educational session, you must complete a mechanic field test. A State Trooper will contact you to schedule this trial inspection.
New Jersey
Mechanic license requirements do not apply to general auto mechanics in New Jersey.
Those who perform vehicle emission repairs, however, may need to apply for Emission Repair Technician (ERT) certification through the Department of Environmental Protection. State law requires that an ERT must perform or supervise any emission-related repairs.
To become an ERT in New Jersey, you must take a free online course and complete an assessment. You must also have ASE certifications in the following areas:
- A6: Electrical/electronic systems
- A8: Engine performance
- L1: Advanced engine performance
You must recertify every five years. Requirements for recertification include submitting updated ASE certifications and completing the online course and assessment again.
New Mexico
No licensing requirements apply for auto mechanics in New Mexico.
In certain areas of the state, you can apply to become a Certified Air Care Inspector, which permits you to perform vehicle emissions testing. In Albuquerque-Bernalillo County, for example, you must complete an online training course as well as a one-day practical training in order to earn this certification.
New York
In New York, auto mechanics do not need to hold a professional license.
The state requires annual vehicle safety inspections, which must be performed by a certified motor vehicle inspector. To earn this certification from the Department of Motor Vehicles, you must have one of the following:
- At least one year of experience repairing motor vehicles in the last five years through employment in the industry or an approved work study program
- A high school or vocational school diploma in automotive trades or a certification of completion of the first year of college courses toward an associate’s degree in automotive technology
Before obtaining certification, you must complete an inspector training program and pass a written test. Your certificate must be renewed every three years.
North Carolina
General auto mechanics do not need a license in North Carolina.
Motor vehicles in this state must pass an annual safety inspection. In some counties, vehicles must pass an emissions test as well. In order to perform these inspections, mechanics must have a license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Before you submit your application for this license, you must complete an approved eight-hour course. A number of community colleges throughout the state offer these courses, such as South Piedmont Community College and Wake Technical Community College. You must renew your license every two years.
North Dakota
In North Dakota, auto mechanics do not need to have a license in order to work.
However, many repair shop owners prefer to hire mechanics who have completed a formal training program and earned one or more ASE certifications. You can find certificate and degree programs at a number of educational institutions throughout the state, including Bismarck State College, Lake Region State College and United Tribes Technical College.
Ohio
Ohio does not require professional licenses for auto mechanics.
The state runs an emissions testing program called E-Check in seven Cleveland and Akron area counties. Each emissions repair facility must employ at least one E-Check certified repair technician. In order to earn this credential, you must complete an approved training program and be ASE certified in the following areas:
- A6: Electrical/electronic systems
- A8: Engine performance
Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, you do not have to obtain a professional license to work as an auto mechanic.
In this industry, you may discover that completing an educational program and holding ASE certifications improves your job prospects. You can find training for this field through degree and certificate programs at schools like Oklahoma City Community College, High Plains Technology Center, Tulsa Tech and Kiamichi Tech.
Oregon
In Oregon, you do not need to fulfill a mechanic licensing requirement to work in this state.
In many cases, completing an automotive technology program at an accredited educational institution or obtaining ASE certifications will make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
Training programs for mechanics can be found at a number of Oregon schools, including Mt. Hood Community College, Portland Community College, Chemeketa Community College and Central Oregon Community College.
Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, auto mechanics do not need to have a professional license.
Certification requirements apply if you want to complete vehicle safety and emissions inspections, which the state requires annually for most cars and trucks. To become a certified safety inspector or emissions inspector, you must complete a certification course at a school approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Certification requirements also apply for making emissions-related repairs. To become a certified emissions repair technician, you must provide proof of advanced automotive diagnosis and repair training or ASE certification in one of the following areas:
- A8: Engine performance
- L1: Advanced engine performance
- T1: Gasoline engines
Rhode Island
Auto mechanics in Rhode Island must maintain technician certifications in order to perform the following types of service and repair work:
- Identification and analysis of damage to vehicles
- Frame measuring and straightening systems and techniques
- Welding in collision repair
- Structural steel repairs
- Suspension, steering and alignment systems
- Safety restraint systems
- Corrosion protection
To obtain technician certification in one or more categories, you must provide proof that you have completed a corresponding course or test approved by the state. Options include certification through ASE, I-Car or P&L Consultants.
Additionally, any mechanic who completes emissions-related work in Rhode Island must become a Certified Inspection Technician (CIT) or Certified Inspection Repair Technician (CIRT). To become a CIT, you must complete a training program and four-hour emissions course and then pass an exam.
To become a CIRT, you must provide proof of ASE L1 certification. If you do not have L1 certification, you may pass a state CIRT exam, which allows you two additional years to pass the L1 test.
South Carolina
South Carolina auto mechanics don’t need a professional license from the state.
If you wish to improve your job prospects in the industry, however, consider pursuing ASE certification or completing an automotive technology training program. You can find programs specifically designed to prepare students to take ASE certification exams at schools like Midlands Technical College, York Technical College and Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College.
South Dakota
In South Dakota, you do not need a professional license to work as an auto mechanic.
When trying to secure a position at an auto service and repair shop, certain factors can improve your hireability. Many shop owners look for mechanics who have one or more ASE certifications or have completed a formal training program like those offered at schools like Lake Area Technical College, Southeast Technical College, Oglala Lakota College and Western Dakota Technical College.
Tennessee
Auto mechanics do not need to apply for a professional license in this state.
In Tennessee’s auto repair industry, shop owners often prefer to hire mechanics with certain credentials, such as nationally recognized certifications through ASE or completion of an educational program. A number of schools in the state, including Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Chattanooga State Community College and Nashville State Community College, offer automotive technology programs that prepare students for work in this field.
Texas
You do not need a license to work as an auto mechanic in Texas.
To improve your job prospects, you may want to consider obtaining ASE certification in one or more areas. Formal training programs like those offered at Southern Careers Institute, Hill College and Midland College provide hands-on experience and prepare students to successfully complete ASE certification exams.
Utah
In Utah, you don’t need to have a professional license to work as an auto mechanic.
Utah has vehicle emissions testing programs in Salt Lake, Davis, Utah, Weber and Cache Counties. Each county requires certification for those who perform emissions inspections or repairs.
Exact requirements may vary from county to county, but generally, you must complete a training course and pass an exam to become a certified emissions technician.
Vermont
Vermont does not have any specific auto mechanic licensing requirements.
The state requires safety and emissions testing for vehicles. Only certified inspection mechanics may perform these inspections. In order to earn this certification, you must pass an exam and submit an application to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
Virginia
General auto mechanics do not need to maintain a professional license in this state.
A number of counties in Northern Virginia, including Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William and Stafford, require vehicle emissions testing. In order to perform emissions inspections or repairs, you must have credentials from the state.
To become a licensed emissions inspector, you must complete an automotive emissions inspection course at Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). You must complete the advanced ASM emissions diagnostics course at NVCC or hold an active ASE L1 certification as an advanced engine performance specialist in order to become a certified emissions repair technician.
Washington
No mechanic licensing requirements apply for auto technicians in Washington.
Other professional endorsements are available, however. Many auto repair shop owners prefer to hire mechanics with nationally recognized certifications through ASE. You may want to prepare for ASE certification exams by completing an automotive technology program.
These programs may be found at a number of Washington schools, including Green River College, South Seattle College and Clover Park Technical College.
West Virginia
Auto mechanics in West Virginia do not have to obtain a professional license in order to work.
However, special requirements apply for those involved in vehicle safety and emissions testing. To become a licensed inspector mechanic, you must complete the state’s inspector mechanic training program and undergo an examination conducted by the West Virginia State Police.
In addition, you must have at least one year of work experience as an auto mechanic or have completed an approved automotive training program.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin auto mechanics do not need to have a professional license.
To complete vehicle emissions testing, however, you must be a licensed emissions inspector. This requires completion of a training program and passing a licensing exam. You must renew your license every two years by completing refresher training and testing.
Wyoming
Wyoming auto mechanics do not face any professional licensure requirements.
However, you may have better job opportunities in this field if you possess ASE certification in one or more areas. A degree or certificate from a formal training program may also improve your prospects in this field.
Options for training programs can be found at a number of schools, including WyoTech, Laramie County Community College and Casper College.
This information has been provided as a service. It is correct and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge; however, it is in no way intended to offer legal advice, and you must always consult with local authorities before you make any business decisions. Regulations and requirements may change at any time.
Who is NEXT Insurance?
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