Want to know how to become a mechanic in 2025? Here’s the truth:
You don’t learn this trade sitting in a classroom. You learn it hands-on. Busting bolts. Swearing at seized parts. Figuring out what’s wrong when even the computer says nothing’s wrong.
It’s not glamorous. It’s cold garages, late hours, busted knuckles, and the rush you get when an engine roars back to life — because you fixed it.
So if you’re asking, how can I become a car mechanic, this is the blog that tells it to you straight. No fluff. No sugar-coating. Just everything you need to know to start turning wrenches and getting paid for it.
First Gear: What You Need to Get Started
Every mechanic begins with the basics. You won’t walk into a garage knowing everything—but that’s okay. What you need is a solid foundation: the right tools, the right knowledge, and the right attitude. Here’s how to get started.
Start with Your GCSEs (Yeah, They Matter)
Don’t skip school. You need GCSEs in Maths and English. Aim for grade 4 or higher. That shows you can think, write, and solve problems. Garages and colleges both look for this. No one expects straight A’s. But you do need to show you can learn.
College Courses: The Fast Track to Hands-On Learning
Not ready for an apprenticeship? College is your next step. Look for Level 2 or Level 3 Diplomas in Light Vehicle Maintenance or Motor Vehicle Engineering. These are solid. They teach you tools, techniques, and theory. City & Guilds and BTEC are the top dogs here.
College gets your hands on engines fast. You’ll practice on real parts. You’ll learn the systems that keep cars running. Brakes, engines, electrics — the whole lot.
What About T Levels?
T Levels are new. Think of them like A-Levels for trades. You’ll study in the classroom and get work experience. The best one for this path is the Maintenance, Installation and Repair T Level. You’ll spend time in a real garage while learning the ropes at school.
How to Become a Mechanic Through Apprenticeships
This is where the magic happens. Apprenticeships are gold in this trade. You earn while you learn. No student debt. Just real skills, real work, and a paycheck at the end of the week.
Light Vehicle Apprenticeship: The Classic Route
Want to fix everyday cars? Go for a Level 3 Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician apprenticeship. It lasts 2 to 3 years. You’ll learn diagnostics, servicing, and repair. You’ll be in the workshop four days, college one day. Simple.
Your mentor shows you how to find faults. You’ll replace brake pads, strip engines, and hook up diagnostic tools. This is the best way to become a pro.
Autocare Technician: Good for Beginners
Starting from zero? Try the Level 2 Autocare Technician apprenticeship. It teaches the basics. You’ll do oil changes and tyre checks and learn how to work safely. Once done, you can move up to Level 3.
Want to Work on Trucks or Bikes?
Not into cars? You’ve got options. There’s a Heavy Vehicle apprenticeship for trucks and buses. Or a Motorcycle Technician path if you prefer two wheels. Same structure, different machines. Pick what excites you.
Must-Have Qualifications: Show You Know Your Stuff
This trade might not require a licence, but qualifications still matter. They show you’re capable, build trust, open doors—and help you get hired.
MOT Tester Certification
If you want to inspect cars and do MOTs, this one’s key. You need:
- A full UK driving license
- Four years of full-time experience
- A Level 3 qualification in vehicle repair
- No criminal record (yep, they check)
Once you’ve passed, you’ll need annual training. It keeps your skills sharp. It also keeps you legal.
IMI Accreditation
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) runs this. It’s your badge of honour. They offer accreditations for:
- Diagnostic Technician
- Light Vehicle Inspection
- Master Technician (top of the ladder)
These aren’t mandatory, but they help. They tell employers you’re serious. And they help you stand out from the crowd.
How Can I Become a Car Mechanic Without a Degree?
The easy answer is apprenticeships or college courses. You don’t need a university degree to be great at this. Most mechanics don’t go that route. What you do need is:
- Willingness to learn
- A good work ethic
- A brain that doesn’t quit when stuff gets tricky
Garages want problem-solvers. They want people who keep at it when the bolt won’t budge or the fault won’t show up on diagnostics. You get that by doing the work, not by reading books.
Specialise or Stay General? Pick Your Path
Not every mechanic does the same thing. Once you’ve got the basics, you can choose your lane.
Light Vehicle Mechanic
You work on cars. Everything from oil changes to engine rebuilds. This is where most people start. It’s solid, busy, and always in demand.
Heavy Vehicle Mechanic
You deal with trucks, lorries, and buses. Big parts. Bigger tools. Bigger pay in some places. The systems are more complex. But the work is steady.
Motorcycle Mechanic
Love bikes? This path’s for you. Smaller engines. Tighter spaces. Loyal customers. You’ll need specialist training, but it’s a great niche.
Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Technician
The future is electric. EVs and hybrids are showing up in every garage now. But they come with high-voltage systems. That means risk. That also means special training — and more pay. The IMI offers EV qualifications at Levels 2, 3, and 4. These are gold right now. Every shop needs someone trained in this. Be that person.
ADAS and Diagnostics
Modern cars rely on sensors and software. They can brake automatically and even park themselves—but they also require precise calibration. If you’re passionate about technology, this could be the perfect path for you. You’ll need diagnostic tools, problem-solving skills, and a sharp, analytical mind.
The Trade’s Power Players: Know Who Sets the Standards
Mechanics don’t work in a vacuum. These groups shape the industry. Get to know them.
IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry)
They lead the industry—certifying, accrediting, and promoting the trade. They’re also driving progress in training, especially as electric vehicle expertise becomes increasingly essential.
RMI (Retail Motor Industry Federation)
They back garages and workshops. They offer advice, support, and training. Good to know if you plan to open your own place.
NBRA (National Body Repair Association)
They focus on bodyshops. If you go into crash repair, this is your crew. They help you meet quality standards.
The Motor Ombudsman
They protect drivers and customers. Garages can sign up for their codes of practice. This builds trust and reputation.
Climbing the Ladder: Your Career Options After Training
So you’ve learned the trade. What now? Here’s where you can take it.
Workshop Mechanic → Senior Tech → Master Tech
You start on oil changes. Then you move to diagnostics. Then rebuilds. With time and experience, you climb the ladder. At the top, you’re a Master Technician. You solve what no one else can.
Become an MOT Tester
You test and inspect vehicles. It’s steady work. You’re trusted. You need sharp attention to detail.
Breakdown and Roadside Engineer
AA, RAC, Green Flag — they need mechanics too. You’ll fix cars where they stop. It’s solo work. It’s fast thinking. And it pays well.
Motorsports or Classic Car Restoration
Got a passion project? These are specialist roles. Race teams want skilled techs. So do collectors. This isn’t entry-level stuff. But it’s great once you’re experienced.
Run Your Own Garage
Want to be the boss? Open your own shop. You’ll need business sense and people skills. But you’ll control your work. That freedom appeals to many mechanics down the line.
What’s the Pay Like?
Here’s what mechanics earn in 2025:
- Entry-level: Around £23,000
- Mid-level: Around £32,000
- Top-end: Up to £45,000 or more
- EV specialists: £34,000 and rising fast
- Vehicle Technicians (average): £40,000+
Pay varies by location. London and the South East usually pay more. But skilled techs are needed everywhere.
Why This Trade Has a Future (And Why You Should Care)
Mechanics aren’t going anywhere—in fact, demand is growing. According to the IMI, there’s a skills shortage, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and diagnostics. That’s your opportunity. With more cars and more advanced technology on the road, there’s greater need for skilled, well-trained professionals. This isn’t a job you can fake—but if you’re good, you’ll always be in demand.
Future-Proof Your Skills: What’s Changing in the Trade?
The trade evolves fast. Here’s what’s coming:
EVs and High-Voltage Systems
Electric is here. Every garage needs EV techs. These systems are dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Get trained. Stay ahead.
ADAS and Sensor Calibration
Cars have radar now. Cameras too. All of it needs recalibrating after repairs. That’s a job in itself.
Software and Connectivity
Cars are computers now. Updates, code checks, and connectivity are the new normal. Learn diagnostics. Learn coding basics. It’ll help.
Cybersecurity
Yes, cars can be hacked. This is a growing field. If you know how to secure systems, you’ll be in demand.
Augmented Reality and Smart Tools
AR is creeping into the workshop. Glasses that show you repair steps? It’s not sci-fi anymore. Get used to digital tools.
Final Thoughts: Get Under the Bonnet and Start
This job isn’t for everyone. It’s tough. It’s dirty. Some days, nothing works. Other days, you are the only one who can fix it. But if you love engines… If you want a trade that matters… If you want to learn something real…
Then stop reading and start doing. That’s how to become a mechanic.
Ready to stop reading and start wrenching? Enrol in our online Car Mechanic Training at School of Healthcare — learn the trade, for real.
