Automotive Technician Career Guide in Idaho
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Idaho.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Idaho
Automotive technicians commonly complete an Idaho college certificate or associate degree, dealership training, manufacturer education, or supervised employment.
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 Idaho
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Idaho 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 Idaho is approximately $1,250 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Idaho
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 Idaho
Automotive technicians in Idaho generally prepare through technical-college education, manufacturer training, or paid dealership and repair-shop experience.
- Study engines, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical and electronic systems, transmissions, HVAC, and computerized diagnostics.
- Practice with scan tools, digital meters, alignment systems, lifts, service information, and manufacturer software.
- Obtain EPA Section 609 certification before servicing motor-vehicle air-conditioning systems.
- Pursue ASE certifications after meeting the applicable education and work-experience requirements.
- Complete hybrid, electric-vehicle, diesel, and advanced driver-assistance-system training as required by the employer.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Idaho
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho | Nampa | View Program |
| College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls | View Program |
| Idaho State University College of Technology | Pocatello | View Program |
| North Idaho College | Coeur d’Alene | 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 Idaho
General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program
Organization: College of Western Idaho and GM
Toyota Technician Training and Education Network
Organization: Toyota Motor North America
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Idaho
Idaho does not issue a general occupational license for automotive technicians or ordinary repair shops. Technicians handling motor-vehicle refrigerants must obtain EPA Section 609 certification. Dealers, dismantlers, and specialty businesses are regulated separately.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Idaho
Idaho’s latest long-term projection indicates approximately 10% employment growth and about 620 annual openings during the 2022–2032 period.
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 Idaho?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Idaho is approximately $48,420 per year, or $23.28 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Idaho require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Idaho. 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 Idaho?
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 Idaho?
Idaho projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 10% from 2022 to 2032, with about 620 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
- Idaho Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Automotive Technician Wages
- Idaho Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- Idaho Transportation Department — Dealer Services — Licensing authority. Idaho Transportation Department — Dealer Services