Diesel Mechanic Certification Requirements

Cargo and mail trucks, buses, commercial generators and other types of heavy machinery are all powered by diesel engines. As a result, diesel mechanics are important people to have around industries such as automobiles, manufacturing and public transport, etc.
Their expertise are important in keeping heavy vehicles (buses, trucks, tractors, etc.) and machinery (commercial generators, cranes, lifters, etc.) running seamlessly. In this piece, you will find all the important information on how to become a certified diesel mechanic.

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What Does a Diesel Mechanic Do?

Following are the major day-to-day responsibilities of a diesel mechanic:

  • Routine maintenance, diagnosis, repairing and overhauling of all types of diesel engines
  • Pinpointing and rectifying any and all fault codes
  • Carry out all types of diagnostic as well as performance tests on diesel engines
  • Replacing clutch, transmission, plugs and all other parts as and when needed
  • Preparing and regularly updating all engine service and maintenance records

Requirements to Become a Diesel Mechanic Online

To become a diesel mechanic, you need to pass your high school diploma (HSD) or equivalent GED (General Educational Development) certificate. You must also be at least 18. You can then either go for some specialized education to learn how to become a diesel mechanic or land a position as a trainee diesel mechanic.

Steps to Become a Diesel Mechanic

  1. High school diploma (HSD) or equivalent GED certificate

This is the minimum educational requirement.

  1. Post-secondary training and education

There are a number of certificate and associate’s degree programs available if you want to go for specialized post-secondary education. They offer coursework in diesel engine repair, automotive mechanics and other related fields.

  1. Start work

You can now start working as an entry-level diesel mechanic. If you decide to enter the field straight out of high school, then you will most likely begin working as a trainee diesel mechanic. With increased learning and skill enhancement, you will be able to climb up the career ladder.

  1. Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is not mandatory but it can give your career a significant boost. It is likely to take you around 2 to 4 years to complete an apprenticeship. A number of employers offer diesel mechanic apprenticeships. Detailed information on how to become a diesel mechanic apprentice is available on their websites.

  1. Certification

Most states do not require diesel mechanics to be certified. However, it can be good for your career growth and you can get better-paying employment opportunities as a result. The most common certification is the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) license offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. All information on how to become a diesel mechanic online is there on their website as well.

How Many Years to Become a Diesel Mechanic?

If you enter the field straight out of high school, then it will take you around 2 to 4 years of work as a trainee diesel mechanic. Conversely, if you enroll in some specialized education before entering the field then it can take you anywhere between 6 months and 2 years to start work as a diesel mechanic.

How Much Do Diesel Mechanics Make?

As per the records of the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, diesel service technicians and mechanics had an annual median pay of $47,350 in May, 2018. This comes to a per-hour salary of $22.76.

Diesel Mechanics Job Growth and Career Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 9% growth in jobs for diesel service technicians and mechanics from 2016 to 2026. This is quite encouraging for people looking to enter the field in the near future.

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