Automotive Technician Career Guide in Washington
Explore automotive technician salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Washington.
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How to Become an Automotive Technician in Washington
Washington technicians train through technical colleges, manufacturer partnerships and dealership apprenticeships emphasizing diagnostics, electronics, hybrid and electric vehicles.
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 Washington
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Washington 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 Washington is approximately $7,600 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Automotive Technicians in Washington
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 Washington
Washington automotive technicians commonly complete a technical-college program, manufacturer pathway, dealership apprenticeship, or employer training. Training includes:
- Engine repair and computerized engine performance
- Transmission and drivetrain systems
- Brakes, steering, suspension, tires, and alignment
- Electrical systems, networks, and scan-tool diagnostics
- HVAC, hybrid, electric-vehicle, and high-voltage safety
- ADAS calibration, service documentation, and environmental compliance
EPA Section 609 certification is required for regulated refrigerant work. ASE and manufacturer credentials may be required by employers.
Automotive Technician Training Providers in Washington
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Washington Institute of Technology – Auto Repair Technician | Kirkland | View Program |
| Shoreline Community College – Automotive Technology | Shoreline | View Program |
| Bates Technical College – Automotive Mechanic | Tacoma | View Program |
| Spokane Community College – Automotive Technology | Spokane | 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 Washington
Automotive Technician Apprenticeship
Organization: Washington State Auto Dealers Association
Automotive Technician Licensing Requirements in Washington
Washington does not require a general personal license for automotive technicians. Repair businesses need applicable business registrations, while technicians may need ASE, EPA Section 609, emissions-related or manufacturer credentials for particular duties.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSAutomotive Technician Job Outlook in Washington
Washington automotive technician employment is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, increasing from approximately 15,370 to 16,440 jobs, with about 1,500 openings annually. Population growth, vehicle electrification, fleet maintenance and dealership service demand support employment.
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 Washington?
The statewide median wage for automotive technicians in Washington is approximately $57,270 per year, or $27.54 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Washington require automotive technician licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for automotive technician workers in Washington. 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 Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington projects automotive technician employment to grow by approximately 7% from 2024 to 2034, with about 1,500 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
- Washington Wages for Automotive Technician (SOC 49-3023) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Washington Automotive Technician Wages
- Washington Automotive Technician Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Washington Automotive Technician Employment Trends
- No Statewide Automotive Technician Licensing Authority — Licensing authority. No Statewide Automotive Technician Licensing Authority