There are many ways to obtain an automotive technician job in Virginia. You can enroll in a vocational or technical school, or you might take an entry-level job in a garage or auto shop and slowly acquire the skills needed to begin taking certification tests through groups like ASE. However, one unique way to earn an auto mechanic salary is to get certified to perform state inspections.
Becoming a certified mobile vehicle inspector in Vermont
A state car inspector in Virginia is someone who must meet a few requirements, but with that certification you are able to provide car owners with their mandatory vehicle inspections. To obtain your inspector certification you will have to:
Submit Mechanics Certification Application (Form SP-170B)
Submit Criminal History Record Request (Form SP-167)
Choose the classes you wish to be certified (Class A – May inspect any motor vehicle, motorcycle, or trailer; Class B – May inspect trailers only; Class C – May inspect motorcycles only)
Prepare for the written exam by studying the Official Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection Manual
Have a valid driver's license in Virginia
Sit for the exam at an approved site and obtain a minimum of 75%
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Have no less than one year of practical experience (employed as an automotive technician) OR have completed a training program approved by the Department of State Police. Currently, you will be able to substitute the following training for the year of employment:
- Associate's Degree in auto technology offered by Virginia Community College
- A 1,080 hour Career Technical Automotive Services Tech Program by Office of Career Technical Education, State Department of Education
- Certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
- Pass the 1,500 hour Auto-Diesel Technician Course" offered by the Nashville Auto Diesel College
As you can see, there is a demand for a high level of training in order to get certified. This can be done through the programs outlined above, or you can get the year of hands-on training by pursuing a degree in automotive services technology. There are many outlets to obtain such training, including schools like UTI Universal Technical Institute.
They feature a 51-week program that is blend of traditional classroom learning and practical training in formal workshops. Here you will master everything needed to provide services and repairs to foreign and domestic cars. Also, this same level of expertise would leave you well prepared to get certified to inspect vehicles in Virginia too.
The coursework in a technical program would include:
- Advanced Diagnostic Systems
- Automotive Engines & Repair
- Automotive Power Trains
- Brakes
- Climate Control
- Drivability & Emissions Repair
- Electronic Technology
- Power & Performance
- Professional Service Writing
Getting jobs at car dealerships and enjoying one of the many mechanic jobs takes training. You can start with the programs used to certify inspectors in Virginia, but you will definitely want to consider auto mechanic training in vocational and technical schools as well, as this opens the door to high pay and more career opportunities.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
