Diesel Mechanic Career Guide in Virginia
Explore diesel mechanic salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Virginia.
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How to Become a Diesel Mechanic in Virginia
Common entry routes include a diesel technology degree, workforce certificate or employer-sponsored technician program. Employers frequently prefer ASE Medium/Heavy Truck knowledge and hands-on diagnostic experience.
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.
Diesel Mechanic Salary in Virginia
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Virginia median wage for diesel mechanic 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 $60,640, the median wage in Virginia is approximately $450 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Diesel Mechanics 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 PREPARATIONDiesel Mechanic Training Requirements in Virginia
Virginia employers generally prefer formal diesel technology education combined with supervised shop experience.
- Learn diesel engines, electronic diagnostics, brakes, air systems, drivetrains, hydraulics and preventive maintenance.
- Consider ASE Medium/Heavy Truck certifications, particularly T2 through T8.
- Obtain separate credentials when performing regulated vehicle inspections, underground mine diesel work, refrigerant service or commercial driving.
Diesel Mechanic Training Providers in Virginia
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Tidewater Community College | Chesapeake | View Program |
| Southside Virginia Community College | Blackstone | View Program |
| Advanced Technology Institute | Virginia Beach | View Program |
| New River Community College | 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 OPPORTUNITIESDiesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Programs in Virginia
Diesel Mechanic Licensing Requirements in Virginia
Virginia does not require a general occupational license for ordinary diesel truck mechanics. Additional credentials may be required for state safety inspections, underground mine diesel work, commercial driving or mobile air-conditioning service.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSDiesel Mechanic Job Outlook in Virginia
Virginia diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 4%, from approximately 9,730 workers in 2024 to 10,070 in 2034, with about 850 annual openings.
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 diesel mechanic salary in Virginia?
The statewide median wage for diesel mechanics in Virginia is approximately $61,090 per year, or $29.37 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Virginia require diesel mechanic licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for diesel mechanic 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 a diesel mechanic in Virginia?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 1–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are diesel mechanics in demand in Virginia?
Virginia projects diesel mechanic employment to grow by approximately 4% from 2024 to 2034, with about 850 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 Diesel Mechanic (SOC 49-3031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Diesel Mechanic Wages
- Virginia Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Virginia Diesel Mechanic Employment Trends
- Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation — Licensing authority. Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation