Diesel Mechanics Schools in Michigan

Diesel Mechanics licensing in Michigan: State license required

Michigan is the outlier: under the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act (Public Act 300 of 1974), anyone performing major vehicle repairs for pay must hold state mechanic certification from the Michigan Department of State. Diesel techs working on trucks over 10,000 lbs GVW certify in heavy-duty truck categories — engine repair–diesel, brakes, drive train, and three others — by passing $18-per-category state tests or submitting current ASE certifications; the certification costs $25 and renews annually for $20. New techs can work under a two-year trainee permit supervised by a certified mechanic while they qualify.

Official source: Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State), Business Licensing Section · Exam: State mechanic certification test per category (electronic touchscreen testing stations at SOS offices; $18 per test attempt). Heavy-duty truck categories for vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVW: engine repair–gasoline, engine repair–diesel, drive train, brakes & braking systems, suspension & steering systems, electrical systems; Master Heavy-Duty Truck Mechanic = all six. Current ASE certifications in matching categories are accepted in place of the state tests (but you must still apply for the state credential; student-level ASE does not qualify). · Typical requirement: No minimum training hours. Qualify per repair category one of three ways: pass the state mechanic test ($18 per test, offered at all SOS offices), show current ASE certification in the matching category, or complete a state-approved training program. Original certification application fee is $25; the certificate expires 1 year after approval and must be renewed annually ($20 renewal fee). A mechanic trainee permit (Form AR-0135, $20) allows paid work under a certified mechanic while qualifying — valid 2 years per category, nonrenewable.