The best auto mechanic schools in Chicago offer several distinct routes: a short service certificate, an associate degree with broader automotive coursework, or a concentrated private-school diploma. This comparison covers 16 institutions within 50 straight-line miles, including 14 public colleges and two private schools. The profiles give program requirements, teaching locations, and current published prices alongside the historical measures used for ranking.
For Chicago residents, City Colleges’ district tuition is $163 per credit for registration on or after June 29, 2026. Its automotive routes include a 20-credit basic certificate, a 46-credit advanced certificate, and an AAS with a 66-credit minimum. A suburban college’s lowest rate usually depends on living in that college’s own district. That distinction matters more to your bill than the broad “in-state” label in a federal comparison table. City Colleges Tuition and Automotive AAS Requirements.
Distances are straight-line estimates from a representative point in Chicago to each institution’s federally reported location. They measure geographic proximity, not driving time or the location of every teaching site. Salary figures below describe Illinois, not this city.
Compare The Best Auto Mechanic Schools In Chicago
Ranked schools receive a comparison score from automotive credential awards (50%), annual institution-wide tuition (30%), and schoolwide graduation rate (20%). These measures help compare reported scale, cost, and institutional completion. Read The Full Ranking Method.
Tuition is the institution’s annual undergraduate figure for 2024–25, excluding fees, tools, housing, and other expenses. Awards are credentials reported in 2023–24, not a count of unique graduates. Blank cells indicate an omitted measure.
01
Lisle, IL · 21.7 Miles From Chicago
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois Inc
92.7Score
CertificatePrivate for-profit
Blended Training With 664 Lab HoursUTI’s Lisle program combines online classroom instruction with campus laboratory training, including a battery-electric vehicle course with 39 hours of hands-on lab work.
Universal Technical Institute’s Automotive and EV Technology program includes its Lisle campus and runs for 51 weeks. The blended program lists 61 semester credits, with 723 classroom hours and 664 lab hours, including a dedicated battery-electric vehicle course.
At the Lisle campus, the current entry program is Automotive & EV Technology. Its fixed diploma sequence offers a roughly year-long route that combines conventional vehicle repair with electric-vehicle systems.
- Automotive Awards
- 391
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 63%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Program Length
The program lists 51 weeks and 61 semester credit hours for locations including Lisle, Illinois.
- Blended Delivery
Online classroom instruction is combined with hands-on laboratory training on campus.
- Class And Lab Hours
The catalog lists 723 classroom hours and 664 laboratory hours, totaling 1,387 instructional hours.
- Battery-Electric Course
Battery Electric Vehicle Technology includes 74.5 instructional hours, divided into 35.5 classroom and 39 lab hours.
02
Melrose Park, IL · 8.9 Miles From Chicago
Lincoln College of Technology-Melrose Park
86.8Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePrivate for-profit
Three Schedules For A DiplomaMelrose Park offers day, afternoon, and evening schedules with the same published approximate 57-week length.
Lincoln Tech’s Melrose Park Automotive Service Technology diploma requires 55 semester credits and 1,320 instructional hours. Day, afternoon, and evening schedules take approximately 57 weeks, combining campus shop instruction with some online coursework.
The Melrose Park campus offers both an automotive service diploma and a longer management associate degree, with evening scheduling among its options.
- Automotive Awards
- 118
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 68%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Diploma Length
The diploma includes 55 semester credits and 1,320 instructional hours over approximately 57 weeks, including holidays and scheduled breaks.
- Delivery Choices
Day, afternoon, and evening programs combine on-campus hands-on instruction with some coursework online.
- Alternative-Fuel Basics
Program objectives include understanding alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles alongside conventional automotive repair and diagnostics.
- Professional Development
Students complete professional development activities and seminars, with training in customer communication, time management, and career skills.
- ASE Preparation
The program’s learning objectives include preparation for ASE certification exams.
03
Elgin, IL · 35.1 Miles From Chicago
Elgin Community College
59.0Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Degree Or A Service SpecialtyElgin offers an AAS and smaller certificates ranging from automotive HVAC to engine performance and transmission service.
Elgin Community College’s automotive AAS requires 68–69 credits and sits alongside certificates in individual service specialties. Students supply their own tools and protective equipment, while the engine course develops disassembly, measurement, and machining skills.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $7,128
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 160
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 41%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - AAS Credits
The automotive AAS requires 68–69 credits across a suggested four-semester plan.
- Specialty Certificates
Certificate options include electrical, brake and suspension, engine mechanical repair, transmission and drivetrain, engine performance, and automotive HVAC.
- Certificate Sizes
The HVAC certificate requires five credits; Engine Mechanical Repair requires seven, and Engine Performance requires 14.
- Engine Repair Practice
The engine course covers disassembly and assembly, inspection, measurement, and engine machining procedures.
- Required Equipment
Automotive students provide hand tools, safety glasses, and protective clothing.
04
Grayslake, IL · 39.5 Miles From Chicago
College of Lake County
57.6Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Master Training With Hybrid And EV ServiceCLC combines the eight automotive service systems with hybrid and EV servicing in its classes.
College of Lake County integrates hybrid and electric-vehicle service into its automotive classes and holds ASE Education Foundation Master certification. Students can choose the master technician AAS or several certificates, with bachelor’s transfer routes to Southern Illinois University and Ferris State.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $9,944
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 335
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 37%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Hybrid And EV Classes
Hybrid and electric-vehicle servicing is integrated into CLC’s automotive classes.
- Core Service Training
Students begin with basic skills and train across the eight defined automotive service systems.
- Master Certification
The program holds ASE Education Foundation Master Automotive Service Technology certification.
- Credential Options
CLC offers a master technician AAS plus certificates in oil change, maintenance and light repair, general service, and master technician training.
- Bachelor’s Transfer
The program identifies transfer routes to Southern Illinois University and Ferris State University.
05
Sugar Grove, IL · 40.0 Miles From Chicago
Waubonsee Community College
56.4Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Required Hybrid, EV, And Light-Diesel CoursesWaubonsee places hybrid/EV systems and light-duty diesel service in the second year of its automotive degree.
Waubonsee Community College’s Automotive Service Technology degree requires 63 credits, including hybrid/EV systems and light-duty diesel service. The second year adds comprehensive diagnostics, and students provide their own tools, protective clothing, safety glasses, and safety shoes.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $9,192
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 169
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 39%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Degree Requirements
The 63-credit plan includes 15 general education credits and 24 automotive credits in each of the two years.
- Hybrid And Diesel Training
Required second-year courses include three credits of Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Systems and three of Light Duty Diesel Service and Repair.
- Advanced Diagnosis
The second year also includes Comprehensive Diagnostic Principles, Advanced Engine Control Systems, and Automotive Accessories and Diagnostics.
- Master Certification
Waubonsee identifies the program as Master ASE and NATEF certified, with classes preparing students for selected ASE tests.
- Required Equipment
Students supply hand tools, safety glasses, protective clothing, and safety shoes.
06
Palos Hills, IL · 12.6 Miles From Chicago
Moraine Valley Community College
55.2Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
AAS With An Optional Mopar RouteMoraine Valley offers general automotive study and a separate Mopar option that connects college instruction with dealership work.
Moraine Valley Community College offers a two-year Automotive Technology AAS with ASE Education Foundation Master Automobile Service Technology accreditation. Certificates can stand alone or apply toward the degree, and optional Mopar training adds an approved dealership work requirement.
Moraine Valley’s Mopar route combines college training with an approved dealership or fleet internship and extends district tuition to participants regardless of where they live.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $7,968
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 115
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 40%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Degree And Accreditation
The two-year Automotive Technology AAS holds Master Automobile Service Technology accreditation through the ASE Education Foundation.
- Stackable Certificates
Automotive certificates can be earned separately or applied toward the AAS; options include electric-vehicle repair, service advising, climate control, chassis, and drivability.
- Prior Learning
Students with relevant certificates or noncredit training can receive credit after demonstrating proficiency.
- Mopar Option
The optional Mopar program starts in fall, requires full-time study, and includes work at an approved dealership.
- Bachelor’s Transfer
The college identifies Southern Illinois University and Ferris State University routes that can lead to a bachelor’s degree with two additional years of study.
07
Des Plaines, IL · 18.5 Miles From Chicago
Oakton College
55.1Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
66 Credits With Part-Time SchedulingOakton offers automotive courses from morning through evening and describes a part-time route that can be completed within four years, alongside specialty certificates.
Oakton College offers an ASE Education Foundation-recognized Automotive Technology AAS and certificates covering different automotive systems and components. The 66-credit AAS combines automotive instruction with general education, and courses are available across morning, midday, late-afternoon, and evening periods.
Oakton’s part-time schedule is relevant if you need to keep working while studying. Its automotive entry process includes a department-chair interview.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $10,276
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 181
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 37%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Degree Credits
Oakton lists a 66-semester-credit Automotive Technology AAS including automotive and general education courses.
- Certificate Options
The program offers certificates focused on different automotive systems and components.
- ASE Recognition
Oakton says its curriculum is recognized by the ASE Education Foundation.
- Flexible Scheduling
Courses are offered in morning, midday, late-afternoon, and evening periods.
- Part-Time Route
Oakton says the program can be completed within four years of part-time study.
08
Joliet, IL · 34.6 Miles From Chicago
Joliet Junior College
49.1Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Repair Practice On Customer VehiclesJoliet gives automotive students more than 500 hours of repair practice on actual customer vehicles using tools owned by the college.
Joliet Junior College’s ASE Education Foundation Master-certified Automotive Service Technology program offers an AAS and several certificates. Students spend more than 500 hours repairing actual customer vehicles with school-owned tools in an 18,000-square-foot automotive shop.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $11,700
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 186
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 21%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Credential Options
Joliet lists an AAS degree and several Automotive Service Technology certificates.
- Master Certification
The program is certified at the ASE Education Foundation Master level.
- Customer Vehicles
Students spend more than 500 hours repairing actual customer vehicles during training.
- School Tools
The repair experience uses school-owned tools while students work with modern automotive equipment and technology.
- Training Facility
The automotive shop spans 18,000 square feet and contains four classrooms and several service bays.
09
River Grove, IL · 9.7 Miles From Chicago
Triton College
47.0Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Manufacturer Routes And A Local InternshipTriton offers GM/ACDelco and Honda/Acura PACT degree options and publishes the placement requirements for its automotive internship course.
Triton College’s automotive students complete 1,200 combined classroom and shop hours in an ASE Education Foundation Master program. Degree options include general automotive technology, GM/ACDelco, and Honda/Acura PACT, with internship students responsible for securing an approved local placement.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $11,610
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 102
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 29%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Instructional Hours
Automotive students complete 1,200 hours of combined classroom and lab/shop instruction in the Master Automobile Service Technology program.
- Degree Choices
Triton offers automotive AAS routes in Automotive Technology, General Motors/ACDelco, and Honda/Acura PACT.
- Electric Vehicle Certificates
Certificate options include Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Service Technician and EV Charger Installation and Maintenance.
- Internship Conditions
Students enrolled in AUT 296 must secure an instructor-approved local internship, maintain a valid license and insurable driving record, and pass the employer’s background check.
- Transfer Agreements
Triton identifies Automotive Technology AAS transfer agreements with Northern Illinois University and Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
10
Chicago, IL · 8.9 Miles From Chicago
City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College
42.9Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Truman Classes With SIU CompletionTruman’s automotive courses progress from a five-course basic certificate to an AAS, with SIU bachelor’s classes offered at Truman on weekends.
Harry S Truman College’s Automotive Technology program is Master ASE Education Foundation certified and has an 11-course overview with basic and advanced certificates plus an AAS route. The page names the AUTOTEC sequence, requires English 101 and Math 90 or 98 eligibility, and offers a Southern Illinois University bachelor’s completion partnership.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $12,090
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 57
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 32%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Master Certification
Truman identifies its Automotive Technology program as an ASE Education Foundation Master-certified program.
- Course Sequence
The program overview consists of 11 Automotive Technology courses and lists English 101 plus Math 90 or 98 eligibility requirements.
- Basic Certificate
The Basic Certificate requires five courses: AUTOTEC 101, 103, 104, 109, and 209.
- AAS Structure
Truman’s Associate in Applied Science route combines all Automotive Technology courses with seven general education courses, for 18 courses total.
- Bachelor Completion
Students who complete the AAS can continue toward a Southern Illinois University bachelor’s degree with SIU classes offered at Truman College on weekends.
11
Glen Ellyn, IL · 19.9 Miles From Chicago
College of DuPage
39.7Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Four-Semester Service TechnologyDuPage combines shop practice and hybrid-vehicle coursework in a four-semester associate route, with certificates taking two to four semesters.
College of DuPage’s Automotive Service Technology pathway offers an associate degree and certificates in four semesters or two to four semesters. Students develop hands-on shop skills with engines, electronics, suspension, electrical systems, transmissions, emissions, and hybrid vehicle technology, with options for workforce entry or transfer.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $9,750
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 53
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 25%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Credential Length
College of DuPage lists an associate degree taking four semesters and certificates taking two to four semesters.
- Shop Training
Students learn to operate, diagnose, and repair automotive systems through hands-on shop experience.
- Systems Coverage
Coursework includes engine design and operation, suspension, automotive electrical systems, transmissions, and emissions.
- Hybrid Technology
The program includes hybrid vehicle technology within its automotive service courses.
- Transfer Option
The college says certificate and associate programs can support workforce entry or transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree.
12
Crystal Lake, IL · 45.6 Miles From Chicago
McHenry County College
35.0Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Flexible Study With Master TechniciansMcHenry schedules automotive classes year-round, during days and evenings, with ASE Master Certified Technicians teaching students attending full or part time.
McHenry County College’s Automotive Technology AAS is ASE Education Foundation accredited and taught by ASE Master Certified Technicians. Students can attend full or part time, days or evenings, and apply the Advanced Automotive Maintenance Technician Certificate toward the AAS while building hands-on repair skills.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $9,875
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 26
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 37%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - ASE Accreditation
McHenry identifies its Automotive Technology AAS as an ASE Education Foundation accredited program.
- Master Instructors
Automotive classes are taught by ASE Master Certified Technicians with extensive industry experience.
- Flexible Attendance
Students can take automotive classes full or part time, during days or evenings, year-round.
- Stackable Certificate
The Advanced Automotive Maintenance Technician Certificate can be applied toward the Automotive Technology AAS.
- Hands-On Preparation
The AAS provides knowledge and hands-on skills for entry-level automotive repair technician work.
13
Chicago Heights, IL · 21.7 Miles From Chicago
Prairie State College
30.7Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Repair, Parts, And Service ManagementPrairie State offers certificates for parts and service management as well as individual automotive repair specialties.
Prairie State College’s automotive program uses computerized diagnostic tools and engine analyzers, with an AAS and service-specialty certificates. Separate parts and service-management credentials add inventory, business, repair-order, and estimating skills to the college’s repair training.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $8,610
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 28
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 21%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Diagnostic Tools
Automotive students use computerized diagnostic tools and engine analyzers during service training.
- Degree And Certificates
The AAS sits alongside certificates in alignment, brakes, drivability, engines, HVAC, parts, service technology, service management, and transmissions.
- Program Certification
Prairie State identifies Automotive Technology as an ASE-certified program.
- Parts Training
The Automotive Parts certificate includes inventory control, pricing, stocking, catalog use, business, and computer skills.
- Service Management
The Automotive Service Management certificate develops skills in repair orders, estimating, and the business side of service operations.
14
Cicero, IL · 4.1 Miles From Chicago
Morton College
21.9Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Automotive Degree And Ford Training OptionsMorton offers a general automotive AAS and a separate Maintenance and Light Repair certificate that awards Ford training credentials in four service areas.
Morton College’s 2026–27 catalog lists a 64-credit Automotive Technology AAS with a career-and-life-strategies course in the final semester. Its other automotive credentials include Maintenance and Light Repair with Ford training credentials and Mobile Electronics with installation practice.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $8,256
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 13
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 31%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - AAS Requirements
The catalog lists 64 credits for the Automotive Technology AAS, including a minimum of 23 general education credits.
- Career Coursework
The final semester includes the two-credit Successful Career and Life Strategies course alongside engine performance, steering/suspension, and advanced electrical systems.
- Ford Training Credentials
Successful Maintenance and Light Repair certificate students earn Ford training credentials in brakes, electrical, air conditioning, and steering/suspension.
- Mobile Electronics
The Mobile Electronics certificate teaches installation of audio, alarms, remote-start systems, and basic video systems while preparing students for the MECP exam.
- Program Accreditation
Morton identifies its Automotive Technology program as accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation.
15
Chicago, IL · 4.5 Miles From Chicago
City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College
18.7Score
Certificate · Associate DegreePublic
Day And Evening Automotive StudyKennedy-King schedules automotive training during days and evenings and evaluates professional conduct alongside equipment use and technical skills.
Kennedy-King College offers day and evening automotive training with an Automotive Technology AAS option and certificates in automotive collision or mechanical technology. Students use diagnostic and automotive equipment while being evaluated on technical knowledge, safe work, professionalism, initiative, integrity, and workmanship.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $12,090
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 11
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 31%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Scheduling
Kennedy-King offers automotive training during both day and evening periods.
- Degree Option
The department lists an Associate in Applied Science degree in Automotive Technology.
- Equipment Practice
Students train with diagnostic and automotive equipment as part of their technical preparation.
- Professional Standards
The program evaluates safety, initiative, integrity, responsibility, pride in workmanship, and professional appearance alongside technical subjects.
- Related Certificates
The department offers basic or advanced certificates in automotive collision technology and mechanical technology.
16
Chicago, IL · 10.1 Miles From Chicago
City Colleges of Chicago-Olive-Harvey College
15.6Score
CertificatePublic
Passenger And Light-Truck ServiceOlive-Harvey combines repair skills with the inspection, safety, and customer-service tasks used in routine vehicle service.
Olive-Harvey College offers automotive basic and advanced certificates plus an AAS for work on passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks. Engine diagnostics and chassis repair sit alongside customer service, maintenance, and inspection training in its Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics building.
- Annual In-State Tuition
- $12,090
Institution-wide · 2024–25- Automotive Awards
- 11
Certificates & degrees · 2023–24- Schoolwide Graduation
- 21%
Institution-wide · 150% time
Program Details
Researched September 8, 2026 - Credential Choices
Automotive Technology is available as a Basic Certificate, Advanced Certificate, and Associate in Applied Science.
- Vehicle Scope
Hands-on automotive training covers passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
- Repair Curriculum
Students learn engine repair, diagnostics, tune-ups, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, and steering.
- Service Practice
The program also teaches shop safety, customer service, preventive maintenance, and vehicle inspections.
- Training Building
Automotive students train in Olive-Harvey’s Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics building.
Which Chicago Automotive Training Route Fits Your Plan?
A shorter credential can target a specific type of service work. City Colleges’ 20-credit basic certificate covers introductory automotive technology, engine concepts, electrical systems, brakes, and steering and suspension. Elgin offers a seven-credit Engine Mechanical Repair Specialist certificate as well as other focused specialties. College of Lake County’s 25-credit Maintenance and Light Repair certificate is designed for about two semesters. These are different amounts and types of training, so the credential name alone does not describe the work you will learn. City Colleges Basic Certificate, Elgin Certificates, and CLC Certificate.
For a complete automotive degree, College of DuPage requires 64–68 credits in Master Automotive Service Technology, while Morton’s Automotive Technology AAS is 64 credits. Oakton lists a 66-credit minimum and offers a part-time route with morning through evening classes. Its entrance requirements include high school graduation or an equivalent credential and an interview with the department chair. Oakton is therefore a useful option for students who need to spread coursework across a longer schedule. DuPage Degree, Oakton Degree And Entry Requirements.
Private programs organize time and pricing differently. UTI Lisle’s current Automotive & EV Technology diploma is 51 weeks, 61 semester credits, and 1,387 clock hours. Its listed total charges are $46,500 for enrollment on or after August 1, 2026. Lincoln Melrose Park’s diploma is about 57 weeks, with $40,763 in listed total program charges for 2026; its management associate degree is about 83 weeks and $44,662. These are whole-program charges with specified inclusions, not annual public-college tuition figures. UTI Lisle Program And Tuition and Lincoln Program Charges.
Joliet’s automotive program provides more than 500 hours of work on customer vehicles with school-owned tools. Its fall 2026 automotive course rate is $212 per credit including standard fees, with course-specific charges, books, and supplies separate. Moraine Valley’s Mopar CAP takes a dealership route: students complete an internship at an approved dealership or Chrysler fleet location, and all Mopar CAP participants receive district tuition rates regardless of residence. The route begins in fall and requires a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, a dealership-required drug test, and an interview. Joliet Training, Joliet Tuition, and Moraine Valley Mopar CAP.
Teaching addresses help explain the city choices. Truman’s automotive department is in its Tech Building at 1200 W. Sunnyside Street, and Kennedy-King’s automotive department is in V Building at 6301 S. Halsted Street. Waubonsee teaches Automotive Service Technology in its Technical Education Center at Sugar Grove. The mileage shown in the ranking uses each institution’s federal reporting point, so it measures geographic proximity rather than a daily commute to these classrooms. Truman Automotive Department, Kennedy-King Automotive Department, and Waubonsee Teaching Center.
Auto Mechanic Pay In Illinois
The May 2025 BLS survey reports a $49,170 median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Illinois, across 29,510 jobs. The median is the midpoint for the occupation, not an offer to new graduates.
- 10th Percentile
- $34,190
- Median
- $49,170
- 90th Percentile
- $91,200
Experience, employer, and the work you do affect where you fall in that spread. Explore Auto Mechanic Salaries.
School Credentials And ASE Certification
A college certificate is an academic credential; professional ASE certification requires passing the relevant ASE test and satisfying its work experience rule. For the A1–A9 automobile tests, that rule is two years of qualifying repair experience. You can take most tests before completing the experience requirement, but passing alone does not make you certified.
Completing an ASE-accredited automotive program can count for one year of that experience. An eligible ASE-accredited manufacturer co-op program can count for the full two years when it includes the required hands-on work. These substitutions cannot be combined. Source: ASE Work Experience Rules.
Our certificate and associate degree comparison explains the academic routes, while the ASE certification guide covers professional credentials. The school cost guide separates tuition, fees, and tools.
Chicago Auto Mechanic School Questions
What Does Automotive Training Cost At City Colleges Of Chicago?
For registration on or after June 29, 2026, City Colleges’ standard credit tuition is $163 per credit for Chicago district residents and $429 for Illinois residents outside the district. The college retained earlier rates for students who registered by June 28. These are per-credit tuition rates, not complete program budgets.
City Colleges Tuition Schedule.
How Long Is UTI’s Automotive Program Near Chicago?
UTI Lisle’s current Automotive & EV Technology diploma takes 51 weeks, with 61 semester credits and 1,387 clock hours. The local Ford FACT version takes 66 weeks, and the BMW FastTrack version takes 63 weeks.
UTI Lisle Catalog.
Which Programs Include Electric-Vehicle Training?
Waubonsee’s 63-credit AAS includes Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Systems, Advanced Engine Control Systems, and Comprehensive Diagnostic Principles. Oakton offers introductory and advanced hybrid/EV courses covering high-voltage safety, batteries, charging systems, and diagnostics. UTI Lisle’s current diploma also includes hybrid batteries, electric motors, and controls.
Waubonsee Curriculum,
Oakton Curriculum, and
UTI Curriculum.
Can I Study Automotive Technology In The Evening?
Oakton lists morning, midday, late-afternoon, and evening automotive classes and describes completion within four years part time. Lincoln Melrose Park offers day, afternoon, and evening schedules for its automotive diploma, combining campus training with some online coursework.
Oakton Schedules and
Lincoln Schedules.
Do I Need A Driver’s License Before Enrolling?
Moraine Valley explicitly requires a valid driver’s license and clean driving record for its Mopar CAP route, along with a dealership-required drug test and an interview. That is a requirement for this manufacturer program, not a claim that every Chicago automotive course has the same admissions rules. Oakton’s published automotive admission criteria instead specify a high school diploma or equivalent and department-chair interview and consent.
Mopar CAP Admissions and
Oakton Admissions.
Sources For These School Comparisons
School records and program sources checked September 8, 2026. Federal figures retain their original reporting years; program details cite the school’s published requirements and costs. Send A Correction.
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