How to Become an Auto Mechanic in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, the automotive industry is flourishing, therefore, there’s a strong demand for auto mechanics.

If you want to know more about the process of becoming an auto mechanic in Oklahoma, you came to the right place!

Auto Mechanic Training in Oklahoma

To become an auto mechanic you generally only need a high school diploma as well as completing a training program.

A GED is accepted instead of a high school diploma.

You don’t need to become licensed for this occupation, but you can enroll in a community college if you want a better career prospect.

This way, you can even earn an associates’ degree in the field, if you want to.

Most training programs are 2 years long and many mechanics get trained during high school.

These are some of the Oklahoma colleges that could interest you if you want a degree:

• Central Tech
• Kiamichi Technology Center
• Tulsa Tech
• Oklahoma City Community College
• High Plains Technology Center

There are some admission requirements in place, such as:

• Computer proficiency
• Having passing grades in maths and physics

All the programs must be approved by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.

The NATEF-approved programs meet the standards set by the Foundation for this profession.

All students must attend two types of classes in these programs:

• Theory
• Practice

These are the new skills you’ll have upon graduation:

• Oil changes and tire rotation
• Brake repair and fluid level checks
• Ignition system checks
• Exhaust and muffler repair
• Catalytic converter replacement
• Replace spark plugs, fuel sensors
• Alternator and battery replacement
• Conduct system tests
• Transmission replacements
• Air conditioner repair
• Engine rebuilds

It’s important to know that once you complete your training through any of the programs, you’ll be ready to start working on a position at the entry-level.

Earning an ASE Certification in Oklahoma

Auto mechanics who accumulated some work experience can attempt to become certified through ASE.

You can continue working even without an ASE certificate, as this is not a must for this industry.

The certifications offered, include the following:

• Repair technician
• Service consultant
• Collision damage estimator
• Parts specialist

ASE has some requirements for those who want to become certified:

• At least 2 years of experience
• Signing up and paying the fee for the exam
• Passing the related exam

The work experience you may need for the various credentials might differ, and be between 1 and 3 years in the field.

No candidate is allowed to take the exam for the ASE certification, online.

Some auto mechanics prefer obtaining more diplomas.

Regardless of how many certificates you want to get, you’ll have to renew your credentials after every 5 years.

ASE created a set of 8 exams for those who want to become master auto mechanics.

The series of exams are as follows:

• 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)
• Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certification Test (L1)
• Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist Certification Test (L2)
• Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist Test (L3)
• Engine Machinist Certification Tests (M Series)
• Parts Specialist Certification Tests (P Series)
• School Bus Certification Tests (S Series)
• Medium-Heavy Truck Certification Tests (T Series)
• Undercar Specialist Exhaust Systems Test (X1)

Earning a 609-Refrigerant Certification

Auto mechanics have many duties to complete when they perform work on a vehicle.

Some of these tasks include working with the MVAC system.

The MVAC uses a regulated and hazardous refrigerant that requires the mechanic to have a diploma.

This diploma is issued by EPA and even allows the mechanic to purchase limited quantities of the substance.

You can find the coursework and the test online and you don’t need to worry about renewing this credential.

Auto Mechanic Schools in Oklahoma

Employment and Salary Information for Auto Mechanics in Oklahoma

Oklahoma has no shortage of businesses in need of auto mechanics.

These include:

• Dealerships
• Tire and parts shops
• Repair shops
• Gas stations
• Local governments

You can look for these job titles when applying for a position:

• Diesel specialist
• Bus and truck mechanic
• Automotive body repair worker
• Auto glass installer/repairer

It’s well-known that at first, your salary will be lower compared to more experienced mechanics.

These professionals earn around $37,710 per year.

Regional Salary in Oklahoma

Additional Information about Auto Mechanics in Oklahoma

An auto mechanic is expected to work both alone as well as part of a team.

Dealerships prefer individuals who obtained a manufacturer’s certification, for their specialized knowledge.

Mechanic Schools by City

Mechanic Schools by State