Auto mechanics examine, diagnose, and repair a wide variety of vehicles, as well as a wide variety of mechanical issues. The ideal candidate for a career as an automotive technician enjoys working with his or her hands. He or she also applies logic to root out problems and discover the solution. Georgia auto mechanics might work in a wide variety of areas, including repair shops, auto dealerships, and garages.

Georgia Automotive Mechanic Schools

Most professionals in the auto mechanic industry have some type of certification or received formal training. Students can find automotive technician programs in numerous technical colleges found throughout the state of Georgia.

  • Georgia Northwestern Technical College: This school offers students numerous options with their Automotive Program, including an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Automotive Technology, and certification programs in Engine Performance, Chassis Technician, Collision Repair Assistant, and Transmission/Transaxle Technician.


  • Atlanta Technical College: Here they offer both degree and certification programs for Automotive Technology, where students learn about engine repair, climate control systems, and much more.


  • Lanier Technical College: This college offers degree and certification programs in Automotive Technology. Students may earn a variety of specialized certificates, such as a Chassis Technician, Electrical/Electronic Systems Technician, and an Engine Performance Technician.


  • Ogeechee Technical College: This school's Automotive Technology Program educates students pursuing an automotive career, including electrical systems, brake systems, and steering and suspension systems. Students choose between pursuing an AAS or a Technical Certificate.


  • North Georgia Tech: They offer students degree and certification programs in Automotive Technology and Auto Collision Repair. They may also pursue specialty certificates, such as Marine Engine Technology and Auto Electrical/Electronic Systems Technician.

What to Expect from Georgia Auto Mechanic Programs

Modern vehicles feature complex, advanced electronic and computer systems. Today's mechanic needs the skills and training to match. Automotive technology students study the eight principles of ASE certification:

  • Engine repair
  • Brakes
  • Automatic transmissions and transaxles
  • Engine performance
  • Electrical/electronic systems
  • Suspension and steering
  • Manual drive train and axles
  • Heating and air conditioning

Some students choose to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree, while others pursue general certification or a specialized certification, such as:

  • Electrical
  • Brakes
  • Engine performance
  • Steering and suspension

Georgia Auto Mechanic Certification and License

The state of Georgia does not require auto mechanics to obtain a special license.

However, many of the top employers hire only mechanics with Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. To increase your marketability and earning potential, ASE certification is highly recommended.

Auto mechanics who service air conditioners may need an EPA 608 Technician Certification to work with refrigerants.

Resources for Auto Mechanics in Georgia

  • To find ASE practice tests, study guides, testing tips, and more, visit the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
  • To work with refrigerants, you may need EPA Section 608 Technician Certification.

Metro Areas Rated for Popularity for:
Automotive Mechanics

Listed below are metro areas ranked by the popularity of jobs for Automotive Mechanics relative to the population of the city. Salary data was obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2019 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov

Metro Area
Jobs
Annual Median Salary
Dalton290$41,210
Savannah800$51,530
Valdosta260$32,180
Athens-Clarke County460$42,980
Warner Robins310$37,210
Macon530$34,950
Gainesville490$35,740
Hinesville90$50,760
Brunswick280$35,370
Rome180$40,510
Albany400$41,800
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell12390$45,540

Sources:

  1. College Navigator, IES, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=GA&p=47.0604+15.0803&l=91+92, accessed September 3, 2016
  2. Test Prep & Training, National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, http://www.ase.com/Test-Prep-Training.aspx, accessed September 3, 2016
  3. Types of Section 608 Technician Certification, EPA US Environmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/section608/types-section-608-technician-certification, accessed September 3, 2016

Career and College Resources

Real-World Career Reports
Career References and Original Articles