Every electric and self-driving car is built, serviced and charged by skilled people. Here's how to get started, where to train, and who's hiring right now.
You don't need a degree to start. Many of the best EV technicians began in a high-school shop class or a community-college program, and kept learning.
THE PATH
From the classroom to self-driving
01
Start in school
Math, physics, shop and computer classes all count. Dual-credit and CTE automotive courses give you a head start.
02
Learn a trade
A community college or technical school automotive, collision, electrical or manufacturing program.
03
Get certified
High-voltage safety certificates like ASE xEV show employers you can work on EVs safely.
04
Get hired as a technician
Service, mobile service, manufacturing and charger installation jobs open the door at every EV maker.
05
Grow into autonomy
Technicians who keep learning move into diagnostics, ADAS calibration, testing and engineering for self-driving cars.
TRAINING & TRADES
Programs and certifications
Real programs that lead to EV jobs. Check each one for current dates and requirements.
FEATURED · TESLA
Tesla START
An intensive, full-time training program built into partner college programs as a multi-week capstone. Small classes, hands-on labs and certifications, then a smooth path into a full-time job at Tesla.
3
tracks
17
partner schools
Full-time
job at Tesla after
Apply on Tesla.com ›
ASE
ASE xEV certifications
Level 1 (Electrical Safety Awareness) is for anyone who works around EVs. Level 2 (Technician Electrical Safety) is for those who service high-voltage systems. Online tests, valid for 5 years.
Certification · Online test
Learn more ›
EVITP
EV Infrastructure Training Program
The standard certification for licensed electricians who install and maintain EV chargers. About 20 hours online, then a proctored exam. Valid for 3 years.
Electricians · Charger installs
Learn more ›
RIVIAN
Rivian apprenticeship
Announced in 2023: a paid 24-month industrial maintenance apprenticeship, starting at Georgia community colleges and finishing with on-the-job training at Rivian's plant in Normal, Illinois.
Apprenticeship · Paid
Learn more ›
U.S. DEPT. OF LABOR
Apprenticeship finder
Search registered, paid apprenticeships near you, including automotive, electrical and advanced manufacturing.
Apprenticeships · Nationwide
Learn more ›
JOBS
Who's hiring now
Live openings from the EV makers.
Tesla careers
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Rivian careers
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Lucid careers
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LUCID · LIVE OPENINGS
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WORKSHOPS
Free workshops are coming
Live online sessions on EV careers, charging and using self-driving safely. Get an email when the first one is scheduled.
Workshop alerts
One email when a new workshop opens. Nothing else.
Program details, prices and openings change often. Always confirm with the school, program or employer. Novastar is not affiliated with these companies and is not paid for these listings.