Dallas is one of the fastest-growing metros in Texas — and demand for skilled auto technicians is surging with it. Find local apprenticeships, trade schools, and training programs. Start earning while you learn.
DFW's massive and car-dependent population creates one of the largest auto service markets in the country. The region's high concentration of luxury and performance vehicles — driven by the energy and finance sectors — supports premium technician rates. DFW auto technicians with luxury brand certifications command top wages in the market.
Salary Data — Dallas
What auto technicians earn in Dallas.
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Metro — Auto Technician Wages
Entry level / lube tech$32,000 – $40,000
General service tech$42,000 – $56,000
Master tech / ASE certified$58,000 – $75,000
Shop owner / fleet manager$80,000+
Texas statewide median (BLS)$46,830
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. Data reflects 2024 figures for Texas.
Training Paths
Programs available near Dallas.
Trade School
Local Community College — Automotive Technology
Dallas-area community colleges offer automotive technology programs. 1-2 year programs with ASE certification prep and employer partnerships.
Trade School
Texas State Technical College (TSTC)
TSTC automotive programs are well-regarded with strong manufacturer partnerships and job placement.
Manufacturer Training
OEM Dealership Training Programs
Many dealerships in Dallas offer manufacturer-sponsored training programs. Good path if you want to specialize with a specific brand (Ford, GM, Toyota, etc.).
ASE Certification
ASE Master Technician Program
ASE certification is the industry standard. Working toward all 8 ASE automobile certifications (Master Technician status) significantly increases earning potential.
Texas licenses electricians through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Dallas and Tarrant counties follow state licensing — no additional local license beyond the TDLR credential is required to work in the DFW Metroplex.
FAQ
Common questions about Dallas auto technician training.
Dallas auto technicians earn $32,000–$80,000+ depending on certification level and specialization. ASE Master Technicians at dealerships and specialty shops earn at the high end. Texas statewide BLS median is $46,830.
ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications are the industry standard. Entry-level positions often don't require certifications, but advancing to Master Technician status (8 ASE certifications) significantly increases earning potential and career options.
Community college automotive technology programs run 1-2 years. Some trade schools offer accelerated certificates in under a year. Many technicians also enter through on-the-job training as lube techs or service assistants.
Consistently — every vehicle needs maintenance. Dallas's large population and car-dependent infrastructure create strong, stable demand. EV and hybrid expertise is increasingly valuable as electric vehicles become more common.
Also serving Dallas
Programs near these cities also available
Fort Worth
Arlington
Plano
Frisco
McKinney
Irving
Garland
Mesquite
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