Automotive Technician Career Guide in Arkansas
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Arkansas.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Arkansas
Arkansas technicians train through community colleges, technical programs, dealerships and manufacturer-supported pathways.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Automotive Technician Salary in Arkansas
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Arkansas median wage for automotive technician workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $49,670, the median wage in Arkansas is approximately $5,510 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Arkansas
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONAutomotive Technician Training Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas automotive technicians generally complete an automotive-service program, manufacturer pathway, dealership apprenticeship, or employer training. Core preparation includes:
- Engine repair and computerized performance diagnosis
- Transmission and drivetrain systems
- Brakes, steering, suspension, tires, and alignment
- Electrical systems, networks, and scan-tool diagnostics
- HVAC, hybrid, electric-vehicle, and high-voltage safety
- ADAS, service information, customer documentation, and shop safety
ASE credentials may be employer-required. EPA Section 609 certification applies to regulated automotive refrigerant service.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Arkansas
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College – Automotive Technology | North Little Rock | View Program |
| Arkansas State University–Beebe – Automotive Technology | Searcy | View Program |
| NorthWest Arkansas Community College – Automotive Service Technology | Bentonville | View Program |
| South Arkansas College – Automotive Service Technology | El Dorado | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESAutomotive Technician Apprenticeship Programs in Arkansas
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas does not require a general occupational license for automotive service technicians. Employers may require ASE, manufacturer or EPA Section 609 certification.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Arkansas
Arkansas automotive technician employment is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, increasing from approximately 7,320 to 7,860 jobs, with about 670 openings annually. Population growth, dealership service, trucking and commercial fleets and vehicle replacement support demand.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the automotive technician salary in Arkansas?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Arkansas is approximately $44,160 per year, or $21.23 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Arkansas require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Arkansas. Local jurisdictions, employers, or specific work scopes may still impose requirements, so applicants should verify current rules before beginning work.
How long does it take to become an automotive technician in Arkansas?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 6 Months–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are automotive technicians in demand in Arkansas?
Arkansas projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 7% from 2024 to 2034, with about 670 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Arkansas Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Arkansas Automotive Technician Wages
- Arkansas Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Arkansas Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- No Statewide Automotive Technician Licensing Authority — Licensing authority. No Statewide Automotive Technician Licensing Authority