Automotive Technician Career Guide in Virginia
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Virginia.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Virginia
Virginia technicians train through community colleges, manufacturer-sponsored programs, dealerships and ASE-aligned apprenticeship pathways.
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 Virginia
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Virginia 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 Virginia is approximately $9,660 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Virginia
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 Virginia
Virginia automotive technicians typically complete an automotive-service program, manufacturer pathway, employer training, or apprenticeship. Core preparation includes:
- Engine repair, fuel, ignition, and emissions systems
- Automatic transmission and drivetrain systems
- Brakes, steering, suspension, tires, and alignment
- Electrical systems, networks, and computerized diagnostics
- HVAC, hybrid, electric-vehicle, and high-voltage safety
- ADAS calibration, scan tools, service information, and shop safety
Technicians performing official safety or emissions inspections must obtain the applicable inspector authorization in addition to normal employer qualifications.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Virginia
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Virginia Community College – Automotive Technology | Manassas | View Program |
| Tidewater Community College – Automotive Technology | Chesapeake | View Program |
| Virginia Peninsula Community College – Automotive Technology | Hampton | View Program |
| New River Community College – Automotive Technology | Dublin | 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 Virginia
Ford ASSET Automotive Technician Program
Organization: Ford / Northern Virginia Community College
Toyota Technician Training and Education Network – T-TEN
Organization: Toyota / Virginia College Partner
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Virginia Automobile Dealers Association
Automotive Service Technician Registered Apprenticeship
Organization: Virginia Works Registered Apprenticeship
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Virginia
Virginia does not require a general occupational license for automotive technicians. Technicians who perform official Virginia safety inspections must qualify and obtain authorization as Virginia State Police vehicle safety inspectors. Northern Virginia emissions-inspection work requires separate program credentials.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Virginia
Virginia automotive technician employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, from approximately 21,070 to 22,180 jobs, with about 1,930 openings annually. Population growth, dealership service, fleet maintenance and advanced vehicle technology 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 Virginia?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Virginia is approximately $59,330 per year, or $28.53 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Virginia require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Virginia. 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 Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 1,930 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
- Virginia Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Automotive Technician Wages
- Virginia Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- No General License / Virginia State Police Safety Division — Licensing authority. No General License / Virginia State Police Safety Division