Auto Mechanic Schools in Alabama

The automotive industry has experienced incredible growth in recent years thanks to unbelievable technological leaps. Candidates looking to become automotive mechanics in Alabama will be glad to know that as the field continues to improve in technology, so does the demand for expertise.

Anyone looking to start their career on the best possible path should prioritize acquiring this expertise. However, it pays to become familiar with all the key considerations and requirements before they do so.

This ensures adequate preparation and a smooth, enjoyable journey.

To that end, the sections below highlight all the major requirements to become an auto mechanic in Alabama, including the educational requirements, licensure requirements, and top training programs. It also explores the salary projections for these professionals and the factors to consider.

How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Alabama

The following are the steps involved in becoming an auto mechanic in Alabama.

Having a High School Diploma or GED

In most states nationwide, including Alabama, automotive mechanics are expected to have a high school diploma or GED. This will be needed to secure admission into a training program or even an “on-the-job” learning destination.

Completing a Training Program

Candidates are expected to receive technical training in an environment where they can learn theoretical principles and then practice what they have been taught in a “real world” environment.

Most people turn to academic training programs with a strong track record for this. These kinds of programs are very popular in Alabama, and we will list a few alternatives below.

Typically, an automotive mechanic program is structured so that candidates spend the first few weeks of training learning classroom topics before they start working with actual tools and equipment.

Some training programs also have strong connections with dealerships and manufacturers, leading to internship opportunities and even possible job placement upon graduation.

Certification & Regulations

Lastly, after completing the above steps, candidates can focus on meeting state requirements and regulations before securing employment. They may also consider becoming certified by professional organizations.

We dive deeper into both of these issues below.

Explore other trades with similar paths.

• How to become a plumber in Alabama

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Unlike other trade disciplines in the state, automotive technology does not require a state license or registration in Alabama. This means that candidates can follow the steps above and then secure employment once they’re through.

However, certification is entirely a different topic. While auto mechanics in Alabama are not required by law to obtain certification, this is a popular step thanks to the several benefits that professionals get from it.

For instance, Automotive Service Excellence offers several specialty credentials that can help auto mechanics stand out. Certain employers often insist on working with only certified auto mechanics.

Candidates who want to pursue ASE certification should be prepared to take a certification exam and renew their licenses periodically (usually every five years).

Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Alabama

Aspiring auto mechanics in Alabama may consider any of the entries below for their training.

Explore auto mechanic schools in Alabama by city:

• Auto mechanic schools in Birmingham

Salary & Career Outlook

In Alabama, the average earning that most automotive mechanics report at the end of the year falls around $60,444. However, only some people make it into this middle bracket. Some make more, and some make less.

For instance, those in the top bracket (the highest-paid 10%) earn an annual average salary of around $98,360. Those in the lower bracket (the bottom 10%) earn an average annual salary of around $37,143.

Auto mechanics in Alabama may increase the salary bracket in several ways, including spending more time on the job and gaining more experience. They may also achieve the same objective by working in a city with a relatively higher average.

Auto mechanics in Fairfield, for example, are the highest-paid in the state, with an annual average salary of $81,483. They are followed by auto mechanics in Tuscaloosa and Madison at second and third, with annual average salaries of $74,617 and $71,369, respectively.

Birmingham and Huntsville also boast being among the top five locations in the state, with respectable $69,654 and $62,857 annual average salaries, respectively,