Automotive Technician Certificate
At a Glance
Get the Skills You Need to Jumpstart a Career in Automotive Repair
Train for this in-demand career in just 8 months! Through hands-on instruction and real-world experience, our Automotive Technician Certificate Program prepares you to work with electrical systems, brakes, steering & suspension, and engine performance—all leading to Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) entry-level certifications.
Approx. Number of Hours/Months:
168 hours/7 – 8 months
Program Cost:*
$2,965 (includes certification exam); up to 100% may be covered by the Ratcliffe Works Grant: Apply for Assistance
Schedule:
Offered in the Fall; classes held 2 nights a week from 6 – 9 p.m.
Certification Earned:
ASE Entry Level: A4 (Suspension & Steering), A5 (Brakes), A6 (Electrical Systems), A8 (Engine Performance)
Helpful Resources
What You’ll Learn
Through classroom instruction and hands-on training, build the foundational skills needed in these automotive service areas:
- Basic engine performance and repair
- Steering, suspension, and brake systems
- Electrical systems diagnostics
- Vehicle maintenance and safety procedures
Curriculum
Learn both in the classroom and in the field. Theory instruction and hands-on training take place at Carroll Community College using specialized equipment and automotive trainers. The program also includes field trips to local garages and dealerships, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at real-world automotive environments, as well as face-time with potential employers.
If there is one thing you can count on, it’s that your car will need to be repaired at some point and it’s going to cost you big! Instead of paying someone to fix it, have people pay you to repair their car troubles. No experience is needed to start your journey as an entry-level auto-technician. Review the topics covered in the Auto-Technician Certificate and how it can be a launching pad to attain your Maintenance and Light Repair in only a year. Learn the basics of what it will take to be successful in the program and the industry.
Working on modern cars is like working on a computer. Understanding the electrical system is one of the top skills an auto technician needs. Learn how to diagnose and repair electrical problems in everything from batteries to the instrument panel. At the end of the course, you will be prepared to take the Individual ASE Electrical/Electronic Systems Certification. No prior work experience is required. This is the second class in the Auto-Technician program. Prerequisite: Introduction to Auto Technician.
Gain the knowledge and know-how to diagnose and repair different types of brake systems. At the end of the course, you will be prepared to take the Individual ASE Brakes Certification. This is the third class in the Auto Technician program. Prerequisite: Automotive Electrical Systems or comparable training.
Continue building your auto technician knowledge by learning the suspension and steering of automobiles. Gain an understanding of how to diagnose and repair steering, suspension and wheel alignment problems. At the end of the course, you will be prepared to take the Individual ASE Suspension and Steering Certification. This is the final class in the Auto Technician program. Prerequisite: Automotive Brake Systems or comparable training.
Prepare for the entry level ASE A8 Engine Performance test and learn to diagnose and repair vehicle drivability concerns. Topics include personal safety practices, diagnostic equipment usage, and following the 5-step repair process. Students will learn how to confirm a customer concern, define the problem using course information and other resources, isolate the concern with test equipment, and how to repair the concern properly and verify the repair correctly.
Licensure/Certification Earned
Each course in the program prepares you to take the entry-level ASE certification exam in its respective area.
Once you earn 3 entry-level ASE certifications and complete 6 months of related work experience, you’ll be eligible to test for the ASE Auto Maintenance and Light Repair (G1) Certification, a professional credential for entry-level technicians.
Why Choose Carroll’s Automotive Technician Training?
- Real-World Experience: Learn from instructors with years of industry experience in a fully equipped automotive environment.
- Career Support: Get help with job placement and employer introductions.
- Affordable: Up to 100% of the program cost—including the 4 entry-level industry certification exams—may be covered by the Ratcliffe Works grant for eligible participants.
- Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Our program is shaped by local business leaders and industry experts, ensuring you learn the skills employers are looking for right now. View our Advisory Boards.
Get Paid to Prepare for This In-Demand Career
Carroll County has a massive technician shortage in automotive repair and the proper training is hard to come by. Carroll’s Auto Tech program can help fill this huge need in our county. There are many high-paying auto tech jobs available at our shop and most shops in the area. Get your career into high gear at Carroll!
Career Outlook
The demand for skilled automotive technicians is rising. Locally owned garages and dealership service centers are actively seeking trained professionals, and upcoming retirements in the field mean even more job openings in the near future.
With this certificate, you’ll be prepared for roles such as:
- Entry-Level Automotive Technician
- Lube and Tire Technician
- Maintenance and Repair Assistant
- Who should take this automotive technician training course?
This program is a great fit for people who:
- Enjoy problem-solving and hands-on work
- Prefer active, task-oriented jobs over desk work
- Are interested in performance-based pay (many jobs in this industry are piece rate pay, meaning the more jobs you complete, the more you earn)
- Love working on cars and want to turn that passion into a profession
- Is this program good for someone new to automotive repair?
Yes. No prior automotive experience is required. The program is designed for beginners, including adult learners and recent high school graduates. Instruction starts with foundational skills and progresses toward industry-recognized certifications, making it ideal for those new to the field.
- What are the minimum requirements for this occupation?
To qualify for most entry-level automotive technician positions, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Possess a high school diploma or GED®
- Be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
- What certifications can I earn in this automotive technician course?
Students in the program prepare for and may earn ASE Entry-Level Certifications in the following areas:
- A4 – Suspension and Steering
- A5 – Brakes
- A6 – Electrical/Electronic Systems
- A8 – Engine Performance
After completing the program and gaining six months of related work experience, students are eligible to test for the ASE G1 Certification in Maintenance and Light Repair.
- What is the difference between a mechanic certification and an automotive technician certification?
The terms “mechanic” and “automotive technician” are often used interchangeably. However, “automotive technician” is a more modern term that reflects the expanded skill set required in today’s vehicles, including diagnostics, computer systems, and advanced electrical and electronic systems.
- How long does it take to become a certified automotive service technician?
Carroll’s Automotive Technician program takes approximately 7–8 months to complete and includes 168 hours of instruction held two evenings per week. During the program, students prepare for four ASE Entry-Level certifications.
After earning at least three ASE certifications and gaining six months of relevant work experience, students may pursue the ASE G1 Maintenance and Light Repair certification, which requires one year of total work experience.
- What will I learn in the automotive technician training and certification course?
Students will learn:
- Basic engine performance and repair
- Steering, suspension, and brake systems
- Electrical and electronic systems diagnostics
- Vehicle maintenance and safety procedures
- Interview and résumé skills for job readiness
Training includes classroom instruction, hands-on lab work, and field trips to local garages and dealerships for real-world exposure.
- What tools or equipment will I use in this automotive technician training program?
Students train using industry-standard tools and equipment, including:
- Automotive trainers and diagnostic equipment
- Hand tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers
- Electrical testing tools, including multimeters
- Brake and suspension system components
- Computer-based diagnostic systems
- Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Through Ratcliffe Works and other workforce development programs, eligible students may qualify to have up to 100% of the cost of the program covered. Check your eligibility today.
Get Started Today
410-386-8100 | wbce@carrollcc.edu | Building A, Room 115
*Unless noted, cost does not include any required textbooks and related materials, applicable licensing fees, background check fees, testing fees or prerequisite courses.