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Career guide · Level 3 apprentice, motor vehicle

How to become a mechanic

Most mechanics start with a Level 3 motor vehicle service and maintenance technician apprenticeship at a garage or dealership, earning while they train over about three years.

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Young motor vehicle apprentice working on an engine with an experienced mechanic

How do I become a mechanic in the UK?

Most mechanics train through a Level 3 motor vehicle service and maintenance technician apprenticeship at a garage or dealership, usually taking around three years, and can start at 16. Electric and hybrid vehicle skills are increasingly valued. The National Careers Service lists pay of about £22,000 rising to £42,000.

Last reviewed by the Shine careers team.

What does a mechanic do?

  • Service cars and vans and carry out MOT preparation
  • Use diagnostic equipment to find faults
  • Replace brakes, clutches, exhausts and electrical parts
  • Increasingly, work safely on hybrid and electric vehicles

Pay

Typical salary: £22,000 as a starter, rising to £42,000 with experience.

Apprentices under 19, or in their first year, earn at least £8.00 an hour from April 2026. Many employers pay more.

Sources: National Careers Service (motor mechanic), gov.uk minimum wage rates. See also how much apprentices are paid.

What you need to get in

  • Often GCSEs at grade 3 or 4 in maths and English, though some garages focus on attitude
  • Interest in how vehicles work; a driving licence helps later
  • No experience needed for an apprenticeship

Routes in

Level 3 motor vehicle technician apprenticeship

Around three years with a dealership, independent garage or fleet operator.

College course

A Level 1 to 3 light vehicle maintenance course, then a garage job or apprenticeship.

T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing

Includes vehicle-related specialisms and an industry placement.

Heavy vehicle or motorsport routes

Specialist apprenticeships in HGVs, buses, agricultural machinery or motorsport.

How to become a mechanic, step by step

  1. 1

    Get hands-on

    Help with family cars, bikes or a Saturday job at a garage or tyre centre.

  2. 2

    Search dealership schemes

    Big manufacturers and dealer groups run national apprentice programmes, as well as local garages.

  3. 3

    Apply with a short, practical CV

    Mention anything mechanical you have done, even a school project.

  4. 4

    Learn electric vehicle basics

    EV and hybrid skills are increasingly asked for and add to your pay later.

  5. 5

    Qualify and specialise

    After qualifying, you can specialise in diagnostics, EVs, MOT testing or become a master technician.

Skills employers look for

  • Practical problem-solving
  • Working with tools and technology
  • Attention to detail
  • Explaining faults to customers

Not sure you have them yet? Read our guide to transferable skills, or prepare for an interview.

Related guides

FAQs

How long does it take to become a mechanic?
A Level 3 motor vehicle apprenticeship usually takes around three years.
How much do mechanics earn?
The National Careers Service lists about £22,000 for starters rising to £42,000 with experience. Apprentices under 19, or in their first year, are paid at least the apprentice minimum wage of £8.00 an hour from April 2026 (gov.uk). Many employers pay more.
Can I become a mechanic at 16?
Yes. Many garages and dealerships take apprentices straight from school at 16.
Do I need GCSEs to be a mechanic?
Many employers ask for grade 3 or 4 in maths and English, but some take you on and help you gain them during your apprenticeship.
Is being a mechanic a good career with electric cars coming?
Yes, but skills are changing. Technicians trained on hybrid and electric vehicles are in demand.

Last reviewed 23 September 2026 by the Shine careers team.

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Part of Shine's apprenticeship guide series, plain-English answers, updated regularly.