While the batteries and motors are electric in an EV, a lot of the underlying principles are the same when it comes to electronic and traditional vehicles. That’s where the automotive experience helps.

The Universal Technical Institute is a popular trade school that has an electric vehicle technician training program. Training programs typically cost at least a few hundred dollars; it depends a lot on how long and in-depth they are. EV manufacturers usually offer their own specialized courses to train mechanics on their vehicles. These programs are often free, but you typically need to be licensed mechanic to take them. [4] X Research source

If you’re passionate about cars and you want to be qualified to work on anything and everything with 4 wheels, double major in automotive technology and EV technology![6] X Research source Many colleges offer shorter certification programs for people with engineering degrees or experience working on vehicles. [7] X Research source

Many internships and apprenticeships are paid positions. There’s such a huge need for EV technicians that these companies will bend over backwards to get you into the field. [9] X Research source

Audi, BMW, Ford, Volkswagen, GM, Nissan, Hyundai, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz all sell EVs in addition to their traditional ICE vehicles.

These tests are multiple choice and are available year-round. Register for an account and find a testing center near you by visiting ASE’s website. The L2 exam focuses on electronic diesel engine diagnostics. The L3 test covers hybrid and EV vehicle technology. The L4 exam deals with advanced driver assistance systems (i. e. autonomous driving).

START program students earn $9. 46 an hour while they’re training. Once you graduate and work for Tesla, you’ll start off at roughly $25 an hour. [14] X Research source You will likely need to relocate after you graduate if you want to start working for Tesla right away. You can find more information and apply for the START program here. If you are not accepted for the START program, you can apply for the Pathway to START program, which is an 8-week pre-training course that qualifies you for START if you pass. [15] X Research source

This is why EV internships are often paid and training programs are often cheap (if not free). There is massive demand in this field, and so many mechanics out there know absolutely nothing about EVs.