How to Become a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Virginia
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Virginia earn a median salary of $56,320/year, which is 13% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a automotive service technicians and mechanics takes home approximately $2,302/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a automotive service technicians and mechanics can afford in Virginia
Becoming a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in Virginia typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many automotive service technicians and mechanics positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for automotive service technicians and mechanicss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 17,740 automotive service technicians and mechanics. The highest concentrations are in Richmond and Charlottesville.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond | $57K | $27.38/hr | 2,830 |
| Charlottesville | $56K | $26.75/hr | 420 |
| Winchester | $53K | $25.43/hr | 410 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $50K | $24.25/hr | 230 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $49K | $23.72/hr | 3,540 |
| Roanoke | $49K | $23.65/hr | 800 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $46K | $22.25/hr | 440 |
| Harrisonburg | $46K | $22/hr | 330 |
| Lynchburg | $42K | $20.37/hr | 560 |
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary range in Virginia
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a automotive service technicians and mechanics make in Virginia?▼
The median automotive service technicians and mechanics salary in Virginia is $56,320 per year ($27.08/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $49,670. Salaries range from $35,180 to $90,640.
What are the requirements to become a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Virginia?▼
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in Virginia typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a automotive service technicians and mechanics afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $56,320, a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Virginia would take home approximately $3,714/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Virginia are Richmond ($56,950), Charlottesville ($55,650), Winchester ($52,890). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for automotive service technicians and mechanics?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $56,320 salary, this means roughly $2,722/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.