Automotive Technician Career Guide in Ohio
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Ohio.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Ohio
Automotive technicians in Ohio commonly prepare through a community college, technical school, manufacturer-sponsored program, apprenticeship, or supervised employer training. Programs typically cover engine performance, brakes, steering and suspension, electrical and electronic systems, transmissions, computerized diagnostics, hybrid and electric vehicle safety, and shop safety.
ASE certification is an industry credential and is generally voluntary unless required by an employer or a specialized state program. Technicians who service motor-vehicle air-conditioning systems or handle regulated refrigerants must obtain the applicable EPA Section 609 certification. State inspection or emissions credentials apply only when performing those regulated services.
Most automotive technicians in Ohio complete automotive technology programs at community colleges or vocational schools. Training includes engine repair, electrical systems, computerized diagnostics, brakes, steering and suspension systems, and emissions control 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 Ohio
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Ohio 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 Ohio is approximately $2,660 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Ohio
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 Ohio
General automotive technicians in Ohio may prepare through a technical school, community college, manufacturer program, apprenticeship, or supervised employment. The state does not prescribe one mandatory pathway for ordinary vehicle repair work.
Technicians seeking Ohio E-Check repair technician certification must complete the applicable Ohio EPA-approved training and certification requirements. EPA Section 609 certification is separately required when servicing regulated motor-vehicle air-conditioning refrigerants.
Engine & Transmission Repair
Technicians learn to diagnose and repair gasoline and light-duty diesel engines and transmission systems.
Electrical Systems & Diagnostics
Training includes onboard diagnostics (OBD-II), wiring systems, sensors, and electronic control modules.
Brake & Suspension Systems
Programs cover repair and maintenance of braking systems, steering components, suspension, and alignment.
Emissions Testing (E-Check)
Certain counties require technicians to understand emissions testing procedures and compliance standards.
ASE Certification Preparation
ASE certification is widely preferred across dealerships and repair facilities in Ohio.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Ohio
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Technical College | Cleveland | View Program |
| Cincinnati State Technical College | Cincinnati | View Program |
| Columbus State Community College | Columbus | View Program |
| Cuyahoga Community College | Cleveland | View Program |
| Stark State College | North Canton | 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 Ohio
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Ohio Department of Job & Family Services
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Ohio
Ohio does not require a statewide automotive technician license. However, technicians performing emissions testing in certain counties must obtain Ohio E-Check certification. ASE certification is widely preferred by employers across the state.
Ohio does not require a general individual license for ordinary automotive technician employment. Employers may require automotive education, ASE certification, relevant experience, or manufacturer-specific credentials.
Ohio EPA separately certifies E-Check repair technicians and licenses participating repair facilities in the seven E-Check counties. This specialized certification applies to qualifying emissions-related repair work and is not required for every automotive technician position in Ohio.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Ohio
Ohio has steady demand for automotive technicians driven by a strong automotive manufacturing base, large urban vehicle population, dealership networks, and required emissions testing in select regions.
Ohio projects employment for automotive service technicians and mechanics to grow by approximately 2% from 2022 to 2032, with about 2,370 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
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 Ohio?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Ohio is approximately $47,010 per year, or $22.60 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Ohio require automotive technician licensing?
Licensing requirements for automotive technician workers in Ohio vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Ohio Environmental Protection Agency — E-Check Program before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become an automotive technician in Ohio?
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 Ohio?
Ohio projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 2% from 2022 to 2032, with about 2,370 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
- Ohio Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Ohio Automotive Technician Wages
- Ohio Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Ohio Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- Ohio Environmental Protection Agency — E-Check Program — Licensing authority. Ohio Environmental Protection Agency — E-Check Program