Auto Mechanic Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $61,685 | |
| Massachusetts | $60,127 | |
| Washington | $57,417 | |
| California | $55,444 | |
| New Jersey | $54,250 | |
| Connecticut | $54,209 | |
| Colorado | $53,629 | |
| New York | $53,101 | |
| National Median | $47,770 |
How to Become a Auto Mechanic
Automotive service technicians inspect, maintain, and repair cars and light trucks.
Meet the education requirement
Most auto mechanics enter the field with postsecondary certificate. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the ASE certification
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $31,528 and rises toward $69,744 with experience.
Auto Mechanic salary: common questions
How much does a Auto Mechanic make an hour?
The median hourly wage for auto mechanics is $22.97, which works out to about $47,770 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays auto mechanics the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for auto mechanics at $61,685 per year — 29% above the national median of $47,770.
What is the salary range for auto mechanics?
Most auto mechanics earn between $31,528 and $69,744 per year. The middle 50% earn $38,694 to $59,235, with a median of $47,770.
Is becoming a Auto Mechanic a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 3% (as fast as average), and the role typically requires postsecondary certificate. With a median wage of $47,770 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.