Whether you are already in a vocational school or college preparing for an automotive technician job in Utah, or just exploring your options, you should consider the work of a vehicle inspector.
This is work that can be done in two ways:
Working as a state-certified inspector performing mandatory inspections on vehicles eligible for state-mandated inspections and emissions checks
Working as a certified mobile vehicle inspector
Interestingly enough, auto mechanic training can allow you to do both jobs, but you will require a higher level of certification if you want to perform mobile inspections. First let's consider the requirements to work as a state inspector and then the more in-depth needs of a mobile inspector. You will see how you can earn a much higher auto mechanic salary when you attend auto mechanic school and get the greatest level of education and certification possible.
Working as a Utah licensed vehicle inspector
To work as a licensed state of Utah vehicle inspector, you need to take meet the following requirements:
Be at least 18 years of age
Obtain the Utah Department of Public Safety approved training which includes a mandatory 16-hour certification course
Hold a valid driver's license in Utah
Pay the applicable fees
Submit the formal application
Passing the state exams
The state does work with educational institutions to provide training as well as re-training and testing. So, you can use this training to become a state inspector, but you may want to pursue a wider training in order to work as a certified mobile vehicle inspector in Utah.
If you get the first type of certification (as a state inspector), you can do on the spot inspections for private vehicle owners. However, with more in-depth training, you can begin to provide car buyers or sellers with thorough inspections that reveal much more about the vehicles.
Training to be a certified mobile vehicle inspector in Utah
Typically, those who wish to work as inspectors require some entry level skills and training. They must pass the state exam and meet the requirements, but they could also do formal training in a vocational or technical program.
As long as they have a high school diploma or GED, students can begin training in automotive services technology. Though many colleges and schools offer basic certification in different areas of repair or maintenance, they also provide two-year associate's degree programs that allow you to be a fully trained mechanic. You can also obtain different ASE certifications to reach Master Mechanic status too.
If you are interested, a technical institute such as UTI Universal Technical Institute offers a 51-week program in automotive services technology. This applies towards your Master Mechanic certification, but if you use ASE certification and obtain all eight options, you become Master Mechanic certified at that time as well.
Both focus on:
- Advanced Diagnostic Systems
- Automotive Engines & Repair
- Automotive Power Trains
- Brakes
- Climate Control
- Drivability & Emissions Repair
- Electronic Technology
- Power & Performance
- Professional Service Writing
Auto mechanic school can open the door to multiple opportunities, even if you take a basic level training and certification. Mechanic jobs can be flexible, but especially if you consider becoming a mobile inspector with both state certification and auto mechanic training.
If you’re already a certified mechanic and you’re interested in working with YourMechanic, submit an online application for an opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
