Becoming a Mechanic or Automotive Technician in North Carolina
Becoming a successful auto mechanic, service technician, collision repairer, auto glass worker or diesel technician is all up to you-your choices and efforts will determine your future earning potential. North Carolina has some great high school and post-secondary training available to anyone who wants to have an advantage over the competition. [En Español]
If you are looking for work in an entry-level job in an auto repair shop or service department, you do not need a mechanic’s license in order to work in the state of North Carolina. Learning basic auto mechanics while on the job can help you move up the ladder as you add automotive skills to your professional toolbox.
If you do choose to take advantage of an automotive technology degree or certificate program, you will find more opportunities in the job market. Start by enrolling in an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) accredited program at your high school or vocational school if such a program is available there.
the following topics may be covered in auto mechanic training programs:
- Auto maintenance
- Collision repair
- Damage analysis
- Electrical systems
- Engines
- Heating and air conditioning
- Hydraulic systems
- Inspection procedures
- Mechanical systems
If you’ve already earned your high school diploma or an equivalent, you can expand your education with an automotive technology certificate or degree from one of North Carolina’s colleges. At some of those colleges you can even train in specific brands of vehicles. These courses can be your guide when starting out on your automotive career path.
Job Outlook
The auto mechanic job outlook in North Carolina is stable and is expected to grow steadily over the next decade. The information collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the total number of automotive workers in North Carolina was 36,730 as of May 2020. Of that total there were 26,010 auto mechanics and service technicians, which is about 60 percent of the automotive workforce. Diesel mechanics made up 24 percent of the auto jobs, with a total of 9,280 diesel mechanics working on heavy trucks, buses and other industrial automotive equipment. Auto body and collision specialist totaled 14 percent of the market, with 5,450 employees working throughout the state. Auto glass installers and repair workers had the lowest total number of employees, with 2 percent of the automotive sector.
Auto Mechanic Salaries
This includes information for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers, Automotive Body and Related Repairers, and Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists. The salary data is categorized by percentile and region, highlighting significant variations based on experience and geographic location.
In North Carolina, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics earn between $24,000 and $62,000 annually. Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers have salaries ranging from $22,000 to $58,000. Automotive Body and Related Repairers earn between $26,000 and $68,000, while Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Specialists earn between $28,000 and $72,000.
Salaries in North Carolina by Occupation
| Occupation | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $12.00 / $24,960 | $15.00 / $31,200 | $19.00 / $39,520 | $24.00 / $49,920 | $30.00 / $62,400 |
| Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers | $11.00 / $22,880 | $14.00 / $29,120 | $18.00 / $37,440 | $23.00 / $47,840 | $28.00 / $58,240 |
| Automotive Body and Related Repairers | $13.00 / $27,040 | $16.00 / $33,280 | $21.00 / $43,680 | $27.00 / $56,160 | $34.00 / $70,720 |
| Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Specialists | $14.00 / $29,120 | $18.00 / $37,440 | $23.00 / $47,840 | $29.00 / $60,320 | $35.00 / $72,800 |
Auto Mechanic Salaries in North Carolina by Region
| Region | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers | Automotive Body and Related Repairers | Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Specialists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $28,000 – $62,000 | $26,000 – $58,000 | $30,000 – $66,000 | $34,000 – $72,000 |
| Raleigh | $27,000 – $61,000 | $25,000 – $56,000 | $29,000 – $64,000 | $33,000 – $70,000 |
| Greensboro | $26,000 – $60,000 | $24,000 – $55,000 | $28,000 – $63,000 | $32,000 – $69,000 |
| Wilmington | $27,000 – $61,000 | $25,000 – $56,000 | $29,000 – $64,000 | $33,000 – $70,000 |
ASE Certification
As of January 1, 2018, the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) and the Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) have merged and are now known as the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation (ASE). ASE Certification is the cornerstone of the automotive service industry’s education and is recognized for its role in creating the automotive industry standards for mechanics. The ASE certification ensures that all automotive workers who have met the requirements and passed the exams have a basic working knowledge in automotive technology.
There are over 40 exams offered by ASE in various major automotive systems and service areas, some of these exams include:
- Truck equipment certification tests
- Engine machinist certification tests
- School bus certification tests
- Light truck certification tests
- Light repair certification test
- Transit bus certification tests
- Parts specialist certification tests
- Alternate fuels certification test
Applicants who want to earn the ASE certificate need at least two years of related work experience or a post-secondary degree in the automotive field with at least one year of work history in order to qualify for the ASE exam. As vehicles get more technologically sophisticated, the need for ASE certification will grow among the automotive industry.
Auto Mechanic Schools in North Carolina
North Carolina has a long list of programs for both secondary and post-secondary automotive technology, but here are a couple of institutions with core automotive coursework and a hands-on education with both a certificate and degree program available.
- NASCAR U, Mooresville. There is only one vocational program that has an official relationship with NASCAR: the NASCAR Technical Institute. NTI’s campus is spread over 50,000 square feet of lab space. NTI students are taught by instructors with top industry experience in the basics of engine repair, diagnostics and electrical maintenance. Once the basic courses are completed, students will have the opportunity to continue their NASCAR education by applying to the NASCAR Tech advanced training program.
- Guilford Technical Community College. GTCC offers several programs that prepare students in automotive technical knowledge and skills to repair and maintain all kinds of automobiles. GTCC has degree program options and certificate options available. The school offers two manufacturer-specific programs: the Ford ASSET and the General Motors ASEP.
Where to Work as a Mechanic
North Carolina has lots of different areas to choose from when it comes to auto mechanic work. The cities with the most jobs are the more densely populated areas like Charlotte and Raleigh, but there are always positions opening up at dealerships and small shops throughout the state. Another great thing about North Carolina’s auto mechanic job market is that it includes the coveted auto mechanic positions at NASCAR. NASCAR employs auto mechanics of every kind and at every level. However, in order to be considered at NASCAR you must be educated, trained, licensed and certified.
College Listings
| School | Type | Tuition and fees per year | Net price per year | Auto Mechanic programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Alamance Community CollegeGraham, NC(336) 578-20021247 Jimmie Kerr RoadAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5922024-25 | $6,891 to $18,278by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community CollegeAsheville, NC(828) 254-1921340 Victoria RdAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,8822024-25 | $12,472 to $14,173by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Beaufort County Community CollegeWashington, NC(252) 946-61945337 US Highway 264 EastAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5402024-25 | $4,595 to $6,903by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Blue Ridge Community CollegeFlat Rock, NC(828) 694-1700180 West Campus DriveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6602024-25 | $7,084 to $11,138by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Caldwell Community College and Technical InstituteHudson, NC(828) 726-22002855 Hickory BoulevardAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5262024-25 | $4,700 to $9,407by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Cape Fear Community CollegeWilmington, NC(910) 362-7000411 North Front StreetAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,7482024-25 | $3,857 to $13,464by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Carteret Community CollegeMorehead City, NC(252) 222-60003505 Arendell StAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,3102024-25 | $11,159 to $15,726by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Catawba Valley Community CollegeHickory, NC(828) 327-70002550 Hwy 70 SEAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,4272024-25 | $8,728 to $11,295by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Central Carolina Community CollegeSanford, NC(919) 775-54011105 Kelly DrAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,7112024-25 | $279 to $2,349by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Central Piedmont Community CollegeCharlotte, NC(704) 330-27221201 Elizabeth AvenueAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,7922024-25 | $3,550 to $5,760by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Cleveland Community CollegeShelby, NC(704) 669-4081137 S Post RdAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6022024-25 | $1,095 to $3,456by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Coastal Carolina Community CollegeJacksonville, NC(910) 455-1221444 Western BlvdAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5122024-25 | $6,965 to $8,555by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Craven Community CollegeNew Bern, NC(252) 638-7200800 College CtAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,0222024-25 | $3,923 to $5,786by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Davidson-Davie Community CollegeThomasville, NC(336) 249-8186297 DCC RoadAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $1,9802024-25 | $6,236 to $14,023by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Durham Technical Community CollegeDurham, NC(919) 536-72001637 Lawson StreetAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $1,9862024-25 | $375 to $4,126by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Edgecombe Community CollegeTarboro, NC(252) 823-51662009 W Wilson StAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6402024-25 | $4,748 to $10,565by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Fayetteville Technical Community CollegeFayetteville, NC(910) 678-84002201 Hull RdAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6282024-25 | $3,061 to $7,425by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Forsyth Technical Community CollegeWinston-Salem, NC(336) 723-03712100 Silas Creek PkyAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,2762024-25 | $4,030 to $11,308by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Gaston CollegeDallas, NC(704) 922-6200201 Hwy 321 SAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $3,1862024-25 | $5,166 to $8,093by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Guilford Technical Community CollegeJamestown, NC(336) 334-4822601 E. Main StreetAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,3202024-25 | $12,787 to $17,774by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Halifax Community CollegeWeldon, NC(252) 536-2551100 College DriveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6082024-25 | $3,800 to $4,515by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Haywood Community CollegeClyde, NC(828) 627-2821185 Freedlander DriveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5802024-25 | $3,187 to $6,530by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Lenoir Community CollegeKinston, NC(252) 527-6223231 Highway 58 SouthAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5682024-25 | $4,860 to $7,056by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Martin Community CollegeWilliamston, NC(252) 792-15211161 Kehukee Pk RdAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5232024-25 | $2,483 to $3,383by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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McDowell Technical Community CollegeMarion, NC(828) 652-602154 College DriveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,0322024-25 | $5,158 to $8,399by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Montgomery Community CollegeTroy, NC(910) 898-96001011 Page StAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5382024-25 | $6,099 to $8,131by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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NASCAR Technical InstituteMooresville, NC(877) 201-2597220 Byers Creek RoadAccredited by Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges |
Private for-profit | not published | $22,593 to $28,727by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Nash Community CollegeRocky Mount, NC(252) 443-4011522 N. Old Carriage RoadAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,8662024-25 | $4,060 to $6,651by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Pitt Community CollegeWinterville, NC(252) 493-72001986 Pitt Tech RoadAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $3,8712024-25 | $6,931 to $11,151by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Randolph Community CollegeAsheboro, NC(336) 633-0200629 Industrial Park AveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,4162024-25 | $5,707 to $11,421by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Rowan-Cabarrus Community CollegeSalisbury, NC(704) 216-72221333 Jake Alexander Blvd, SouthAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,0642024-25 | $4,131 to $6,669by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Sandhills Community CollegePinehurst, NC(910) 692-61853395 Airport RdAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,0402024-25 | $7,978 to $13,416by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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South Piedmont Community CollegePolkton, NC(704) 272-5300680 Highway 74 WestAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,0222024-25 | $3,508 to $5,458by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Southeastern Community CollegeWhiteville, NC(910) 642-71414564 Chadbourn HwyAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6002024-25 | $3,902 to $5,538by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Southwestern Community CollegeSylva, NC(828) 339-4000447 College DriveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $4,1122024-25 | $4,066 to $6,140by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Stanly Community CollegeAlbemarle, NC(704) 982-0121141 College DriveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6722024-25 | $3,027 to $5,252by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Surry Community CollegeDobson, NC(336) 386-8121630 S. Main St.Accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6682024-25 | $4,197 to $6,464by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Tri-County Community CollegeMurphy, NC(828) 837-681021 Campus CircleAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,6362024-25 | $4,137 to $6,037by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Vance-Granville Community CollegeHenderson, NC(252) 492-2061200 Community College RoadAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $1,9442024-25 | $3,490 to $11,371by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Wake Technical Community CollegeRaleigh, NC(919) 866-50009101 Fayetteville RoadAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,2542024-25 | $5,813 to $13,266by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Wayne Community CollegeGoldsboro, NC(919) 735-51513000 Wayne Memorial DrAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5662024-25 | $3,223 to $7,529by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Wilkes Community CollegeWilkesboro, NC(336) 838-61001328 South Collegiate DrAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5722024-25 | $563 to $1,855by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Wilson Community CollegeWilson, NC(252) 291-1195902 Herring AveAccredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
Public | $2,5722024-25 | $6,158 to $7,739by family income, 2022-23. Calculate your own net price |
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Tuition and fees are from the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS) for the year shown. Net price is the range of the average net prices each school published for different family incomes, from CareerSpy; it covers first-time, full-time students who received federal aid, so yours may differ. Schools that have closed are not listed. Programs shown without a link were added from federal completions data: the school awarded this program in 2022-23 or 2023-24. We have not yet recorded its own page for the program.