If you want to become an auto mechanic in South Dakota, this page is for you.
Here we have compiled information about the best auto mechanic schools in your state and the programs they offer.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage reported by auto service technicians and mechanics in South Dakota in 2024 was $50,810, but salaries vary depending on experience level, education, employer, and a variety of other factors.
Before being ready to apply for your first position as an auto mechanic, you have to learn a few skills, including:
- Performing diagnostic tests to identify mechanical and electrical problems in vehicles
- Conducting routine maintenance tasks
- Replacing worn and damaged parts
- Explaining car problems to customers
- Keeping records of the work performed
- Ensuring safety procedures are followed
Auto mechanic classes are available in person and online at several colleges across the state.
The programs included in our list focus on developing real-world skills by having students work on real vehicles during the hands-on part of their training.
They take between a few months and two years to complete, depending on the credential you want to obtain.
To help you choose the program that fits your needs, on this page, we have compiled information about the best auto mechanic schools in South Dakota and the programs they offer.
#1Southeast Technical College
About the School
Southeast Technical College offers an Automotive Technology program that leads to an Associate Degree and awards 65 credits.
The program prepares students for:
- Consulting technical manuals for procedures
- Using computerized diagnostic equipment
- Testing parts and systems
- Performing regular maintenance
- Discussing repair procedures with customers
The curriculum includes classes in Automatic Transmissions, Brake Theory, Electrical Systems, Engine Performance, Computer Essentials, and Heating and Air Conditioning.
The per credit hour charge is $278, plus applicable fees.
Contact Information
- Address: 2320 N Career Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57107
- Phone: 800-247-0789
- Website: https://www.southeasttech.edu
#2Western Dakota Technical College
About the School
Western Dakota Technical College offers an Automotive Technology program that uses effective teaching techniques, clear student learning outcomes, and effective assessment.
The program is fully accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.
Applicants need an official copy of a high school transcript or GED scores.
Courses Offered
The program requirements include:
- Introduction to Automotive Technology
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
- Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Systems
- Automotive Drive Trains
- Engine Performance
- Engine Overhaul
- Engine Construction and Operation
- And more
In total, the program includes 50.5-53.5 credits.
Contact Information
- Address: 800 Mickelson Dr, Rapid City, SD 57703
- Phone: (800) 544-8765 or (605) 718-2565
- Website: https://www.wdt.edu
#3Lake Area Technical College
About the School
Lake Area Technical College offers an Automotive Technology program that can be completed in 18 months.
Students spend about 75 percent of their time working in the program’s 27,900 square foot auto repair shop, receiving real-life work experience.
During the first year, students gain a solid foundation.
Afterward, they decide upon entering the Automotive Gas option or the Light Duty Diesel option.
During their time here, students run diagnostic tests and make repairs of cars, light trucks, vans, and sports utility vehicles using up-to-date equipment in a spacious automotive shop.
The Automotive Technology program is certified by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation.
The school’s instructors are also certified by ASE.
Courses Offered
The curriculum includes courses such as:
- Introduction to Brake Systems
- Brake Systems Diagnostics
- Introduction to Steering, Suspension, and Drivetrain Systems
- Introduction to Heating and Air Conditioning
- Heating and Air Conditioning Diagnostics
- Electrical/Electronic Systems Diagnostics
- Introduction to Electrical/Electronic Systems
- And more
In total, the program costs approximately $29,000-$30,000.
Contact Information
- Address: 1201 Arrow Ave. Watertown, SD 57201
- Phone: 605-882-5284
- Website: https://www.lakeareatech.edu
#4North Dakota State College of Science
Located in neighboring North Dakota, North Dakota State College of Science offers an Auto Mechanics Technology program that equips students with the skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain today’s complex vehicles.
Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard tools and technology.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available:
- Automotive Technology- Associate in Applied Science
- Automotive and Diesel Master Technician- Associate in Applied Science
- Automotive Technology Certificate
- Automotive Electrical & Drivability
- Automotive Engines
- Automotive Powertrains
- Automotive Steering, Suspension, and Alignment
The Automotive Technology program includes the following classes:
- Power Trains/Brakes
- Automotive Electrical and Electronics
- Hybrid and Electrical Vehicle Systems
- Engine Repair
- Drivability Procedures
- Air Conditioning
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 800 6th St. N., Wahpeton, ND 58076 | 1305 19th Ave. N. Fargo, ND 58102
- Phone: 800-342-4325
- Website: https://catalog.ndscs.edu
#5Dakota County Technical College
About the School
Dakota County Technical College offers an Automotive Service Technology program that includes 72 credits.
Students prepare with the skills to accurately diagnose mechanical problems related to the engine, transmission, fuel injection, suspension, HVAC, and electrical systems.
They learn to maintain and repair engines, chassis, drive train, front-wheel drive, fuel injection, hybrid/electric drive, and electrical and emission systems.
The instruction involves classroom theory, demonstrations, computer applications, and hands-on car repair.
The curriculum follows the standards set by the Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation.
Graduates are able to work for independent repair facilities and dealerships in various automotive service positions.
The Automotive Service Technology program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.
The total cost for this program is $20,750.
Contact Information
- Address: 1300 145th Street East, Rosemount, MN 55068
- Phone: 651-423-8000
- Website: https://www.dctc.edu
#6South Dakota Mines
South Dakota Mines is an engineering, science and technology university that provides a variety of academic programs.
Courses Offered
Among many other programs, South Dakota Mines offers a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
The degree prepares students for exciting careers in a wide range of industries, from space to manufacturing.
The program includes the following featured courses:
- Design for Manufacturing
- Statics of Mechanisms
- Dynamics of Mechanisms
- Thermo Fluid Dynamics
- Thermodynamics
- And more
In total, the program requires 130 credits.
The course curriculum also covers:
- Software Development
- Fundamentals of Physics
- Product Design and Development
- Fundamentals of Physics Lab
- Introduction to Circuits, Machines, and Systems
- Heat Transfer
- And many other topics
Contact Information
- Address: 501 E. Saint Joseph St. Rapid City, SD 57701
- Phone: (605) 394-2511
- Website: https://www.sdsmt.edu
#7Hot Rod Institute
The Hot Rod Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at the Institute:
- Four-Class Hot Rod Diploma
- Five-Class Hot Rod Diploma
- Six-Class Hot Rod Special
- Achievement Diploma
The school also offers the following elective classes:
- Hot Rod Chassis- a class that teaches everything you want to know about chassis; the course covers all types of suspensions and modifying a frame, to scratch building one
- Hot Rod Body- a program that covers weld-on panels, fabrication, and metal shaping
- Hot Rod Body Advanced- advanced metal shaping using power tools
- Hot Rod Performance- all the mechanical needs to make a project car work
- Hot Rod Refinish- finish body work, filler, primers, and prep for paint
- Hot Rod Upholstery- all automotive upholstery, from the headliner to the carpet
Contact Information
- Address: 2402 N Maple Ave, Rapid City, SD, 57701
- Phone: (605) 342-1195
- Website: https://hotrod.edu
#8Career & Technical Education Academy
About the School
Career & Technical Education Academy offers courses that provide students with relevant, experience-based, career-oriented learning that aligns with each individual student’s future career plans.
The state-of-the-art Academy offers a variety of courses, from introductory level to highly advanced.
The Academy offers courses in Finance, Health Science, Aviation, Construction, Auto, and more.
Courses Offered
The following auto-related classes are available at the Career & Technical Education Academy:
- Auto Body Nonstructural Analysis & Damage Repair
- Auto Body Painting & Refinishing
- Auto Body Repair & Estimating
- Automotive Brakes
- Automotive Electronics
- Automotive Engine Performance
- Diesel Technology
- Introduction to Vehicle Systems & Maintenance
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 201 E. 38th St.Sioux Falls, SD 57105
- Phone: (605) 367-7900
- Website: https://www.sf.k12.sd.us
#9United Tribes Technical College
About the School
United Tribes Technical College offers an Automotive Technology program that provides theory plus the technical skills needed to enter the automotive repair job market.
The training facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment used in major dealerships and repair facilities.
Students of the UTTC Automotive Technology AAS degree and diploma programs learn how to:
- Diagnose automotive concerns
- Differentiate the undertakings of a repair
- Apply automotive language
- Diagnose and repair or replace drivability systems and components
Courses Offered
The Diploma plan includes courses such as:
- Intro to Automotive Service/Safety
- Engine Repair and Service
- Manual Drive Trains and Axles
- Automotive Brakes
- Engine Performance
- Steering & Suspension
- Heating and Air Conditioning
Contact Information
- Address: 3315 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504
- Phone: 701.255.3285
- Website: https://uttc.edu
#10Williston State College
Williston State College offers a variety of Online Technician Training courses through a partnership with George Brown College.
The courses are designed to be completed by students at their own pace online and can be purchased as a total course or individual modules as they progress through the program.
Courses Offered
The following programs and outlines are available:
- Automation Technician Certificate Program
- Electric Vehicle Technician Certificate Program
- Electromechanical Technician Certificate Program
- Electronics Technician Certificate Program
- PLC Technician Certificate Program
- Robotics Technician Certificate Program
Program costs are $1,780 or $60-$90 per module.
Contact Information
- Address: 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND 58801, USA
- Phone: 701.774.4200
- Website: https://willistonstate.edu
Schools Summary Table
Regional Salary in South Dakota
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid City, SD | 380 | $54,460 | $26.18 | $77,150 | $38,550 |
| Sioux Falls, SD-MN | 800 | $58,650 | $28.20 | $79,240 | $39,630 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Final Thoughts
If you want to learn the skills needed for entry-level employment as an auto mechanic, the schools included in our list can get you ready for Automotive Service Excellence certification exams and entry-level employment in just a few months, through a combination of hands-on and classroom training.
Now that you have read our selection of the best auto mechanic schools in South Dakota, the next step is to continue the research and apply for the program that best fits your lifestyle.
