Auto mechanics in Delaware enjoy several high-quality training destinations to begin their careers soundly. They also enjoy consistent demand, competitive salaries, and several pathways for career growth.
State residents on the journey to becoming auto mechanics will be glad that this page explores everything they need to know to begin their careers correctly. Along with the basic preparatory steps needed to get started, we showcase possible educational routes, how to facilitate growth and possible career projections.
Furthermore, one of the sections below also includes the best training programs and institutions for aspiring auto mechanics in Delaware, while another discusses the potential licensure and certification requirements.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Delaware
The following are the steps involved in becoming a successful auto mechanic in Delaware.
Start with a High School Diploma or GED
Generally, the basic credentials to become an auto mechanic in Delaware are a high school diploma or GED. Even though the state does not require this, many people looking for training opportunities must provide either of these to be accepted.
Academic institutions ask for one, as do potential on-the-job training destinations.
Educational Arrangements
Even though formal education is not compulsory to become an auto mechanic in Delaware, it is a highly favorable alternative simply because it helps candidates acquire advanced mechanical expertise. These kinds of programs also set a strong foundation for those who will ultimately go on to learn in a real-world environment.
Graduates will enter the hands-on training part of the process with a comprehensive understanding of the principles behind their practices.
Subsequently, after completing a formal academic program, candidates may work in a specialized training environment or an apprenticeship to further hone their skills. It is common for community colleges and other technical schools offering academic training in automotive technology to partner with dealerships and mechanics to facilitate hands-on training for candidates.
Employment & Specialization
Aspiring mechanics who have acquired formal education and hands-on training may proceed to secure employment and start working on improving themselves through continuing education.
Specialization is also important to help candidates gain an edge in the employment market. Below, we discuss the certification procedures for prospective auto mechanics in Delaware.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Candidates don’t need a license to work as auto mechanics in Delaware. They need proper education and a way to set themselves apart in the employment market.
The steps highlighted above are all that are needed regarding the educational requirements. As mentioned earlier, specialization can be a great way for candidates to set themselves apart and become more employable.
Another thing they may want to do in this regard is to become certified. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is one of the most prominent organizations offering certification for auto mechanics in Delaware and across the country.
The ASE offers several industry-recognized credentials that help candidates prove to employers that they possess high skills in their field. These credentials span various specialty areas, including collision repair, diesel mechanics, transmission and steering, and more.
Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Delaware
Prospective auto mechanics in Delaware may consider any of the high-quality training programs below for their education.
Delaware Technical Community College
Georgetown, DE Campus Only
Delaware Technical Community College offers an automotive technician program that teaches topics in operations and service procedures, brake systems, safety principles, and more.
Tuition
$152 - $381 per CreditContact
(302) 259-6450
kquille3@dtcc.edu
Delcastle Technical High School
Wilmington, DE Campus Only
Delcastle Technical High School — a part of the New Castle County Vocational Technology School.
Tuition
FreeContact
(302) 995-8000
debbie.dolde@nccvt.k12.de.us
St. Georges Technical High School
Middletown, DE Campus Only
St. Georges Technical High School—also part of the New Castle County Vocational Technology School District—offers an auto technology training program with courses in instrumentation, manual transmission, electrical systems, and more.
Tuition
FreeContact
(302) 449-3360
james.hill@nccvt.k12.de.us
Explore auto mechanic schools in Delaware by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary of an auto mechanic in Delaware is usually around $65,488 if they are in the median category. It can get even higher for those who are among the highest-paid.
For instance, the top 10% of auto mechanics in Delaware manage an annual average salary of $96,580. For the low earners, specifically those among the bottom 10%, the annual average salary can still get as high as $44,405.
Candidates may consider optimizing their experience, specialty, employer, and location to earn a higher salary.
The top locations to practice as an auto mechanic in Delaware include Wilmington, with an annual average salary of $87,032; Newark, with an annual average salary of $79,571; and Bear, with an annual average salary of $74,256.
The projections for automotive mechanics in Delaware are quite promising. Several thousand job openings are set to rise over the coming decade.