How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Idaho

This article will present the steps you need to take to become an auto mechanic in Idaho.

There are many different areas in which a person can get hired in this field, each one with solid career opportunities.

If this sounds like something you could be interested in, read on!

Auto Mechanic Training in Idaho

An apprenticeship is usually the best way of getting into a trade, but not for this occupation.

Auto mechanics need quite a bit of knowledge, especially of math, physics, while also being computer proficient.

The best way of acquiring the knowledge and skills for the job is through a training program that was approved by the  National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

The approval from the Foundation ensures that the programs: 

• Meet the quality standard needed in the field
• Provide all the knowledge and skills needed for an entry-level position

These programs last for up to 2 years and they generally award an associate’s degree.

Individuals may choose programs that award certifications or diplomas instead of a degree, however, they shouldn’t expect the training to last for less amount of time.

The institutions where you can learn this trade may have different admission requirements.

You’ll commonly be asked for:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Passing grades in certain subjects
• Good skills in operating a computer

Another difference might be in whether the program is sponsored by some car manufacturer or not.

Since the programs have to meet certain criteria, the classes you’ll attend will be the same.

These are some of the institutions offering such programs:

• North Idaho College
• College of Southern Idaho
• College of Western Idaho

In the case of a sponsored course, you’ll:

• Learn how to perform work on specific vehicle models
• Earn a manufacturer’s certificate

With such a diploma in hand, you can easier find a job within that company, in dealerships or repair shops that specialize in vehicles manufactured by that company.

Earning an ASE Certification

Earning an ASE certification is not easy, as you’ll first have to accumulate a minimum of 2 years of experience as an auto mechanic.

For some of them, you could be asked for only 1 year of experience in the field.

There are at least 40 certifications you can choose from, and there are no limits to how many you can earn.

If you want such a diploma, you have to pass an exam that you can only take in person.

Keep in mind that you’ll have to register and pay for this test.

Once you earn any of these certifications, you’ll have to renew it every 5 years.

This is done by re-taking and passing again the exam.

Additionally, with the ASE testing, you can become a master auto mechanic.

For this, you’ll have to pass 8 separate exams organized in a series.

The series is already decided and it includes:

• Auto Maintenance and Light Repair Certification Test (G1)
• Automobile & Light Truck Certification Tests (A Series)
• Collision Repair & Refinish Certification Tests (B Series)
• Damage Analysis & Estimating Certification Test (B6)
• Automobile Service Consultant Certification Test (C1)
• Truck Equipment Certification Tests (E Series)
• Alternate Fuels Certification Test (F1)
• Transit Bus Certification Tests (H Series)

Earning the EPA 609-Refrigerant Certification

Almost all auto mechanics are expected to perform various operations on the car’s MVAC system.

These operations may involve having to handle regulated refrigerants.

Without a certification showing you know what you’re doing as well as the safety standards, you cannot work on the MVAC system.

The first step towards this certification is training, and the second step is passing the exam.

The classes for this certificate are available online as is the test.

The passing score is 85% and you don’t have to renew this credential.

Auto Mechanic Schools in Idaho

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Idaho

As an auto mechanic, you can get hired by many types of businesses, such as:

• Car dealerships
• Body repair shops
• Tire shops
• Independent establishments
• Gas stations

You’ll be expected to be a team-player but also be able to work on your own, as an auto mechanic.

Sometimes you’ll have to identify the problem on your own and also find a solution.

Some of your duties will be:

• Alternator and battery replacement
• Conduct system tests
• Identify error codes
• Provide repair estimates
• Disassemble parts to identify and fix problems
• Transmission replacements
• Air conditioner repair
• Engine rebuilds

There are many factors based on which your salary will be calculated, such as experience, qualifications, and location.

Regional Salary in Idaho

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Idaho

Idaho is a good state for car lovers as well as for those needed to repair or maintain them.

Auto mechanics can easily find a job in the State of Idaho.

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State