Automotive Technician Career Guide in Montana
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Montana.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Montana
Technicians commonly train through Montana colleges, dealership programs, manufacturer training, independent shops, Job Corps, or registered apprenticeship.
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 Montana
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Montana 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 Montana is approximately $2,330 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Montana
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 Montana
Automotive technicians in Montana generally qualify through college-level automotive education and supervised dealership or repair-shop experience.
- Study engine performance, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical systems, transmissions, HVAC, diagnostics, hybrids, and EVs.
- Develop hands-on proficiency with scan tools, meters, lifts, alignment systems, service information, and manufacturer software.
- Obtain EPA Section 609 certification before servicing motor-vehicle refrigerant systems.
- Pursue ASE certifications after meeting the applicable training and work-experience requirements.
- Complete manufacturer-specific, diesel, hybrid, EV, and advanced driver-assistance-system training as needed.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Montana
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Helena College University of Montana | Helena | View Program |
| Highlands College of Montana Tech | Butte | View Program |
| Montana State University–Northern | Havre | View Program |
| Gallatin College Montana State University | Bozeman | 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 Montana
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Montana Automobile Dealers Association
Montana Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Montana Department of Labor and Industry
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Montana
Montana does not issue a general occupational license for automotive technicians. ASE certification is voluntary but frequently preferred. EPA Section 609 certification is required for motor-vehicle refrigerant service, while repair businesses must comply with business and environmental rules.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Montana
Montana’s latest long-term projection indicates approximately 8% employment growth and about 390 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 Montana?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Montana is approximately $52,000 per year, or $25.00 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Montana require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Montana. 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 Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 8% from 2022 to 2032, with about 390 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
- Montana Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana Automotive Technician Wages
- Montana Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Montana Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- Montana Department of Justice — Motor Vehicle Division — Licensing authority. Montana Department of Justice — Motor Vehicle Division