Automotive Technician Career Guide in Minnesota
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Minnesota.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Minnesota
Minnesota technicians train through technical colleges, dealership partnerships and manufacturer-supported programs emphasizing diagnostics and cold-weather vehicle 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 Minnesota
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Minnesota 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 Minnesota is approximately $8,720 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Minnesota
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 Minnesota
Minnesota automotive technicians generally complete an automotive-technology program, manufacturer pathway, apprenticeship, or employer training. Recommended preparation includes:
- Engine repair and computerized performance diagnosis
- Transmission and drivetrain systems
- Brakes, steering, suspension, tires, and alignment
- Electrical systems, networks, batteries, and charging systems
- HVAC, hybrid, electric-vehicle, and high-voltage safety
- ADAS, cold-weather diagnostics, service information, and shop safety
ASE credentials may be preferred or required by employers. EPA Section 609 certification applies to regulated refrigerant service.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Minnesota
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Hennepin Technical College – Automotive Technology | Brooklyn Park | View Program |
| Dakota County Technical College – Automotive Technician | Rosemount | View Program |
| Dunwoody College of Technology – Automotive Service Technology | Minneapolis | View Program |
| Central Lakes College – Automotive Technology | Brainerd | 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 Minnesota
General Motors ASEP
Organization: General Motors / Dakota County Technical College Partner
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Minnesota
Minnesota does not require a general individual license for automotive technicians. Employers may require ASE, manufacturer, high-voltage or EPA Section 609 certification.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Minnesota
Minnesota automotive technician employment is projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034, from approximately 16,040 to 16,570 jobs, with about 1,370 openings annually. Fleet maintenance, winter-related repairs, dealership service and advanced vehicle electronics 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 Minnesota?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Minnesota is approximately $58,390 per year, or $28.07 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Minnesota require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Minnesota. 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 Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
Minnesota projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 3% from 2024 to 2034, with about 1,370 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
- Minnesota Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Automotive Technician Wages
- Minnesota Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- No Statewide Automotive Technician Licensing Authority — Licensing authority. No Statewide Automotive Technician Licensing Authority