Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology (Apprenticeship)

If you enjoy problem-solving and working with the electrical systems that power modern vehicles, the Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology is an excellent pathway to a dynamic and rewarding career in the automotive industry.
Delivered as an apprenticeship, this course combines real-world, hands-on experience in the workplace with structured training at TAFE Gippsland. You’ll develop specialised skills in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicle electrical and electronic systems, while gaining a strong understanding of safety practices and emerging automotive technologies.
Your training will prepare you to work across a range of environments, including independent workshops, dealerships, and specialised automotive electrical service centres. With technology advancing rapidly, skilled auto electricians are in high demand, offering you competitive job opportunities and a solid foundation for long-term career growth.

If you enjoy problem-solving and working with the complex electrical systems found in modern vehicles, the Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology is the perfect pathway to a rewarding and future-focused career.
Delivered as an apprenticeship, this course combines hands-on experience in the workplace with structured training at TAFE Gippsland. You’ll gain the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to diagnose, repair, and maintain automotive electrical and electronic systems, while developing a strong understanding of safety requirements and emerging technologies.
Your training will prepare you to work in a variety of settings, such as independent auto-electrical workshops, dealerships, service centres, and specialist diagnostic facilities. With vehicle technology continuing to advance, skilled automotive electricians play an important role in servicing and repairing increasingly complex electrical and electronic vehicle systems.

Graduates of this course will be prepared to work as an Automotive Electrician, diagnosing, servicing and repairing electrical and electronic systems and components across a range of vehicles.
Employment opportunities may include:
• Automotive electrical workshops.
• Automotive dealerships and service centres.
• Heavy vehicle and mobile plant service and repair businesses.
• Fleet maintenance operations.
• Specialist automotive electrical and diagnostic businesses.

Upon successful completion of the Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology, learners may progress to:
• AUR20220 Certificate II in Automotive Air Conditioning Technology – providing specialist skills in automotive air conditioning and supporting pathways towards relevant refrigerant handling licensing requirements.
• AUR40626 Certificate IV in Automotive Electrical Technology – developing advanced automotive electrical diagnostic and technical skills.
• Specialist manufacturer training, skill sets or further training in emerging technologies such as battery electric and hybrid vehicles.
This provides pathways for career progression into specialised diagnostic, technical and supervisory roles.

By completing the Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology, you will develop the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to work confidently as a qualified automotive electrician.
Key skills you will learn include:
• Electrical diagnostics and repair – diagnosing faults in vehicle electrical systems, including charging, starting, lighting and accessory systems.
• Electronic control systems – working with vehicle management, network and electronically controlled systems, sensors and components.
• Battery and energy storage systems – testing and servicing vehicle batteries and safely working with selected electric and hybrid vehicle systems.
• Safe work practices – following workplace health and safety requirements when working with electrical systems and components.
• Use of diagnostic tools and technology – operating specialised electrical testing and diagnostic equipment and interpreting diagnostic data to identify and rectify faults.
• Problem-solving – analysing complex faults and applying appropriate repair solutions to restore safe and reliable vehicle operation.
Knowledge areas include:
• Electrical theory and automotive circuit design.
• Automotive electrical systems, components and diagnostic processes.
• Emerging vehicle technologies, including electric and hybrid vehicles.
• Communication and planning skills to work effectively within an automotive workplace.
These skills and knowledge will prepare you for a career in automotive electrical service and repair across a range of vehicle types and technologies.

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

Mandatory entry requirements:

For delivery as an apprenticeship, learners must be engaged under an appropriate Australian apprenticeship training contract.

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 automotive 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 support student 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