Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (Apprenticeship)

Enjoy diagnosing and fixing complex mechanical issues? Interested in a rewarding career in the automotive industry? Our Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is a your next step.
This day release apprenticeship combines hands-on training with diverse career opportunities. Gain skills that will not only boost your employability and job security, but also open doors to multiple sectors including automotive service centres, dealerships and independent repair shops. With a growing demand for skilled light vehicle mechanics, completing this apprenticeship ensures competitive wages and long-term career prospects. It's a win win!

If you’re passionate about working with vehicles and want to build a rewarding career as a qualified light vehicle mechanic, the Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology is the ideal starting point.
This apprenticeship blends hands-on experience with structured learning, giving you the practical skills and technical knowledge to diagnose, service, and repair a wide range of light vehicles. You’ll gain experience working with modern systems and technologies across engines, transmissions, suspension, brakes, steering, and electrical systems.
Your training will cover both on-the-job learning with your employer and targeted training at TAFE Gippsland, ensuring you graduate job-ready and confident. With the automotive industry continually evolving, you’ll also develop an understanding of emerging technologies, including hybrid and electric vehicles.
Upon completion, you’ll be equipped to work as a qualified light vehicle mechanic, ready to meet the needs of local and regional workshops, dealerships, and specialist service centres.
For those wanting to progress further, you can pathway into higher-level qualifications such as the Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis or Certificate IV in Automotive Management, opening doors to advanced technical roles or leadership opportunities.

Completing this qualification prepares you for a range of roles within the automotive industry. Graduates will be ready to work in positions such as:
• Light Vehicle Mechanic – diagnosing, servicing, and repairing cars, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles.
• Automotive Service Technician – specialising in diagnostics and advanced fault-finding techniques.
• Dealership or Workshop Technician – maintaining vehicles to manufacturer and warranty requirements.
• Fleet Maintenance Technician – servicing and repairing vehicles for government, corporate, or private fleets.
Graduates may find employment in:
• Independent workshops and service centres.
• Dealership service departments.
• Fleet maintenance operations.
• Specialist automotive service and repair businesses.

By completing this qualification, you will gain a solid foundation of practical skills and technical knowledge needed to confidently diagnose, service, and repair light vehicles to industry standards.
You will develop skills in:
• Vehicle diagnostics and fault finding – using modern scan tools and diagnostic equipment to identify mechanical and electrical faults.
• Servicing and repair – maintaining engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, suspension, and cooling systems.
• Electrical systems – testing, diagnosing, and repairing vehicle electrical components and circuits.
• Emerging technologies – understanding hybrid and electric vehicle systems and how to service them safely.
• Workplace safety and compliance – applying environmental and workplace health and safety practices across all tasks.
• Planning and communication – working effectively as part of a team and communicating technical information to colleagues and customers.
You’ll also gain knowledge of:
• Manufacturer specifications and industry regulations.
• Customer service principles and workshop documentation processes.
• New technologies and trends shaping the future of the automotive industry.

Are there specified requirements for entry into the course/qualification?: Yes

Mandatory entry requirements:

Must be an Australian apprentice registered with the Australian Apprenticeship Commission.

Recommended entry Requirements:

There are no mandatory entry requirements for this qualification.
However, learners who have completed Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation (AUR20720), or have had prior exposure to automotive workshop practices, will have developed a strong foundation of skills and knowledge. This background can help learners transition smoothly into their apprenticeship by providing:
• Basic mechanical knowledge – understanding of common automotive systems and components.
• Workplace readiness skills – familiarity with safety procedures, workshop tools, and standard practices.
• Confidence and experience – supporting learners to engage with training from the start of their apprenticeship.
While not essential, this prior experience can improve student outcomes and progression throughout the course.

Limitations to course Entry:

If aged between 15 and 17 years of age will require a school release form from their school.

Not applicable.

Will this course/qualification or a constituent unit provide a pathway to an industry licence or regulated outcome: No