Automotive Technician Career Guide in Michigan
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Michigan.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Michigan
Michigan technicians train through community colleges, manufacturer-sponsored programs and dealership apprenticeships. Training covers mechanical systems, electronics, computerized diagnostics, hybrid and electric vehicles, HVAC and advanced driver-assistance systems.
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 Michigan
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Michigan 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 Michigan is approximately $4,450 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Michigan
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 Michigan
Michigan automotive technicians generally complete an automotive-technology program, manufacturer pathway, dealership apprenticeship, or supervised trainee period. Recommended training includes:
- Engine repair and engine performance
- Automatic and manual drivetrain systems
- Brakes, steering, suspension, and alignment
- Electrical, electronic, and computerized diagnostics
- Heating, air conditioning, hybrid, and electric-vehicle systems
- Scan tools, service information, ADAS, and shop safety
Technicians performing covered repairs for compensation must obtain Michigan certification in the applicable repair categories or hold a valid trainee permit and work under appropriate supervision.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Michigan
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Henry Ford College – Automotive Technology | Dearborn | View Program |
| Washtenaw Community College – Automotive Service Technology | Ann Arbor | View Program |
| Lansing Community College – Automotive Technology | Lansing | View Program |
| Ferris State University – Automotive Service Technology | Big Rapids | 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 Michigan
Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training – ASSET
Organization: Ford Motor Company / Henry Ford College
General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program – GM ASEP
Organization: General Motors / Delta College
Mopar Career Automotive Program – CAP
Organization: Stellantis / Macomb Community College
Automotive Technician Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Michigan Automobile Dealers Association
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Michigan
Michigan requires mechanics who perform covered motor-vehicle repairs for compensation to hold state certification in each applicable repair category or work under a valid Mechanic Trainee Permit. ASE certification may support conversion to certain Michigan categories but does not by itself replace Michigan certification.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Michigan
Michigan automotive technician employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, increasing from approximately 23,660 to 24,910 jobs, with about 2,090 openings annually. Vehicle replacement, dealership service, advanced electronics and the transition to hybrid and electric vehicles 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 Michigan?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Michigan is approximately $54,120 per year, or $26.02 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Michigan require automotive technician licensing?
Yes. Michigan requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt automotive technician work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Michigan Department of State – Business Licensing Section.
How long does it take to become an automotive technician in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 2,090 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
- Michigan Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Michigan Automotive Technician Wages
- Michigan Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Michigan Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- Michigan Department of State – Business Licensing Section — Licensing authority. Michigan Department of State – Business Licensing Section