A career as an auto mechanic in Georgia is advisable for several reasons. Not only does it allow individuals enthusiastic about mechanical components to earn a living doing what they love, but it also allows them to showcase their creative sides and enjoy the possibility of growing their skills in an occupation projected to keep innovating and changing how we live our lives.
For anyone looking to kick-start an automotive mechanic career in Georgia, the resources below should be of great help. Here, we have outlined important steps in becoming an automotive mechanic in the state and other important information, such as top programs and licensure requirements.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Georgia
Below is an optimal pathway for starting an automotive mechanic career in Georgia.
Ensure You’re Ready
Aspiring automotive mechanics in Georgia may prepare themselves for what’s to come by brushing up on certain basic subjects, including mathematics and computer usage. They will also need a high school diploma or GED to be accepted into top training programs.
Acquire Proper Training
Training to become an automotive mechanic can be quite intensive. For this reason, it is important to get the steps right.
One of the first things you must ensure is selecting the right training program. We have provided a list of notable options below. Still, remember that the best programs are usually accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).
These programs will give you a solid foundation in suspension, steering, fuel, and general auto repair and maintenance.
Automotive mechanics may also enroll in apprenticeship programs to acquire hands-on training and real-world experience before seeking employment.
Certification
Automotive mechanics in Georgia are not bound by law to seek certification. That said, acquiring certification can go a long way in helping professionals stand out in front of possible employers.
The Automotive Service Excellence offers several certifications for automotive mechanics nationwide. To earn this certification, candidates must have had two years of experience and pass a standardized exam. Other requirements may vary depending on the exact certification in sight.
Some popular alternatives include the automobile and light-truck credential, the collision repair and refinishing credential, truck equipment, and medium-heavy truck certification.
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Licensing & Certification Requirements
Like most states, Georgia has no statewide or even municipality-bound license requirement for automotive mechanics. And as mentioned earlier, there are no certification mandates either.
The only compulsory certification is the EPA 609 refrigerant certification, which must be obtained by automotive mechanics who will work on air conditioning systems. This is because such components tend to include a great deal of complexity and the need to handle hazardous substances that can harm the individual and the environment.
Lastly, automotive mechanics in Georgia who want to work on particular car brands and models may also go for a manufacturer certification such as the one provided by Ford and BMW.
Top Auto Mechanic Schools in Georgia
Below are some of the most notable automotive mechanic training programs in Georgia.
Atlanta Technical College
Aspiring auto mechanics in Georgia may consider enrolling in the automotive technology diploma program at Atlanta Technical College. Along with receiving all their necessary training, they can participate in the Nissan Technician Training Academy program.
Chattahoochee Technical College
Chattahoochee Technical College provides another top-quality destination for automotive technology training in Georgia. Students will train for two years under the tutelage of experienced instructors and will be able to graduate with an associate of applied science degree.
Candidates may also choose to attend any Certificate programs in Automotive Service Management.
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
Lastly, aspiring automotive technicians in Georgia may also go for the program Georgia Piedmont Technical College offers. Along with the skills they’ll need to secure employment, graduates of this program will also receive an associate degree.
Explore Auto Mechanic Schools by City:
Salary & Career Outlook
Aspiring auto mechanics in Georgia will be glad to know that automotive mechanics in the state earn an annual average salary of $64,426. It is possible to earn even more than this by optimizing some factors that can affect an auto mechanic’s salary.
These factors include experience, location, specialization, company of employment, and credentials, among others. Those who have successfully optimized these factors can earn as high as $109,837, while those just starting to earn an annual average salary of $37,789.
The highest-paying cities for automotive mechanics in Georgia include Marietta, Lawrenceville, and Kathleen, with annual average salaries of $78,877, $68,750, and $63,837, respectively. Atlanta and Savannah are among the top five, with annual average salaries of $62,689 and $60,678, respectively.
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